Hearty Indonesian Chicken Soup with Fresh Vegetables

Indonesian Chicken Soup (Sop Ayam)

Indonesian Chicken Soup, or Sop Ayam, is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender chicken with a medley of fresh vegetables in a flavorful broth. Perfect for a nourishing meal, this recipe features vibrant ingredients and aromatic spices, creating a soup that is both satisfying and refreshing.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 whole kampong chicken (cut into pieces)
• 1/2 kg carrots (peeled and sliced)
• 1/2 head cabbage (chopped)
• 1/4 kg green beans (trimmed and cut)
• 1/4 kg cauliflower (broken into florets)
• 3 stalks green onions (chopped)
• 5 stalks celery (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons fried shallots (for garnish)

For the Spice Paste:

• 7 cloves garlic (crushed)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt and sugar to taste
• Cooking oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Thoroughly wash the chicken pieces and cut them into smaller portions.
   • Peel, wash, and slice the carrots. Chop the cabbage, green beans, and cauliflower into bite-sized pieces.
   • Chop the green onions and celery. Set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the chicken pieces and cook until tender, skimming off any impurities that float to the surface. This process ensures a clear and clean broth.

3. Add Vegetables:

   • Once the chicken is cooked, add the carrots and green beans to the pot. Cook for a few minutes until they begin to soften.

4. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • In a small pan, heat some cooking oil over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then, add the chopped green onions and cook until they are wilted and aromatic.

5. Combine and Season:

   • Add the sautéed garlic and green onions to the pot with the chicken and vegetables.
   • Season the soup with salt, sugar, and ground black pepper to taste.
   • Incorporate the cauliflower and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

6. Final Touches:

   • Allow the soup to come to a boil again. Add the chopped cabbage and celery, cooking for an additional few minutes until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
   • Stir in the fried shallots for a crispy and savory garnish.

7. Serve:

   • Turn off the heat and serve the soup hot. The clear chicken broth should be aromatic and refreshing, with each spoonful offering a delightful mix of tender chicken and vegetables.

Enjoy the warmth and comfort of Sop Ayam, perfect for a cozy meal with family and friends. This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also brings a taste of Indonesian cuisine to your table.