Soto Ayam
A fragrant and comforting Indonesian chicken soup, characterized by its vibrant turmeric-yellow broth, tender shredded chicken, and a medley of noodles and fresh vegetables. A true taste of Indonesian home cooking.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Whole chicken(About 2.2 lbs. Can also use chicken pieces like thighs and drumsticks.)
- 3 cm Fresh turmeric root(Peeled and roughly chopped. For a more intense color and flavor, use more. If using ground turmeric, start with 1 tablespoon.)
- 3 cm Galangal(Peeled and roughly chopped. If unavailable, ginger can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will differ.)
- 2 stalks Lemongrass stalks(Trimmed, bruised (hit with the back of a knife or rolling pin) to release aroma.)
- 5 medium Shallots(Peeled and roughly chopped. Can substitute with 1 large red onion.)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(Peeled and roughly chopped.)
- 3 pieces Candlenuts (kemiri)(Optional, but adds richness and helps thicken the paste. Can substitute with macadamia nuts.)
- 1 teaspoon Coriander seeds(Toasted lightly for enhanced flavor.)
- 1/2 teaspoon White peppercorns(Freshly ground is best.)
- to taste Salt
- 2 liters Water(About 8 cups.)
- 2 leaves Bay leaves
- 3 leaves Kaffir lime leaves(Torn to release aroma.)
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil(For sautéing the spice paste.)
- 100 g Glass noodles (bihun)(Soaked in warm water until softened, then drained.)
- 100 g Bean sprouts(Blanched briefly.)
- 100 g Cabbage(Thinly shredded and blanched briefly.)
- 3 medium Hard-boiled eggs(Halved or quartered.)
- for garnish Fried shallots
- for garnish Celery leaves or cilantro
- for serving Lime wedges
- for serving Chili sauce or sambal
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the spice paste: In a food processor or blender, combine the chopped turmeric, galangal, shallots, garlic, candlenuts (if using), toasted coriander seeds, and white peppercorns. Add a tablespoon or two of water or oil to help it blend into a smooth paste. Alternatively, pound the ingredients using a mortar and pestle until smooth.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
Sauté the spice paste: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat (approx. 175°C / 350°F if frying). Add the spice paste and sauté, stirring frequently, until it becomes very fragrant and slightly darkened, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn it.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 3
Cook the chicken and make broth: Add the whole chicken to the pot with the sautéed spice paste. Pour in the water, add the bay leaves and kaffir lime leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface during the initial boiling.
⏱️ 1 hour - 4
Shred the chicken and strain the broth: Carefully remove the cooked chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken meat using two forks, discarding the bones and skin. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or bowl, discarding the solids (lemongrass, leaves, etc.). Season the broth with salt to taste.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 5
Prepare noodles and vegetables: While the chicken is cooling, prepare the glass noodles by soaking them in warm water until pliable, then drain. Blanch the bean sprouts and shredded cabbage in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then drain. Hard-boil the eggs and peel them.
- 6
Assemble and serve: To serve, place a portion of soaked glass noodles, blanched bean sprouts, and cabbage in each serving bowl. Ladle the hot, fragrant turmeric broth over the noodles and vegetables. Top with shredded chicken, halved hard-boiled eggs, and a sprinkle of fried shallots and fresh celery leaves or cilantro. Serve immediately with lime wedges and chili sauce on the side for guests to customize their soup.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The vibrant yellow color of the soup comes from fresh turmeric. Ensure it's cooked well to avoid a raw taste.
- ✓Soto Ayam is highly customizable. Offer a variety of condiments like sambal, lime, fried shallots, and celery leaves for diners to personalize their bowls.
- ✓Regional variations exist, with different regions of Indonesia having their own unique versions of Soto Ayam, often differing in the spice blend or added ingredients.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Soto Betawi: Uses coconut milk or evaporated milk for a richer, creamier broth.
- Soto Lamongan: Known for its specific spice blend and often served with 'koya' (a crispy cracker made from fried garlic and shrimp crackers).
🏷️ Tags
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