Indonesian Soto Ayam – Fragrant Turmeric Chicken Soup That Warms the Soul

Looking for a chicken soup that’s anything but ordinary? Meet Soto Ayam—Indonesia’s beloved turmeric chicken soup that’s both light and deeply aromatic. With every spoonful, you’ll taste layers of ginger, lemongrass, garlic, and earthy turmeric, all tied together in a golden, soul-soothing broth.

It’s one of those dishes that feels healing, nourishing, and absolutely packed with character—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a unique addition to your global recipe rotation.

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Quick Recipe Overview:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4–5
• Difficulty: Easy

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Ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 1 tbsp oil (vegetable or coconut)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 stalk lemongrass (white part only, smashed)
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1.5 lbs (700g) bone-in chicken thighs
• 6 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lime

For Serving:

• Cooked vermicelli rice noodles
• 2 boiled eggs, halved
• Bean sprouts
• Fried shallots
• Sliced scallions
• Lime wedges
• Fresh cilantro
• Sambal or chili sauce (optional)

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Instructions:

1. Sauté the base: In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until softened. Stir in turmeric, coriander, cumin, and lemongrass. Cook for another minute.
2. Simmer the soup: Add chicken and pour in the broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until chicken is tender.
3. Shred the chicken: Remove chicken, shred the meat, and discard bones. Return shredded chicken to the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice.
4. Assemble the bowls: In each bowl, layer vermicelli noodles, bean sprouts, and boiled egg. Pour hot broth and chicken over the top. Finish with fried shallots, scallions, cilantro, and lime.

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Tips & Variations:

• Add coconut milk for a richer, creamier twist.
• Short on time? Use shredded rotisserie chicken and store-bought broth.
• Sambal or sriracha adds an optional spicy kick.
• Noodles can be swapped for cooked rice or egg noodles.

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Why You’ll Love It:

Soto Ayam is the kind of dish that feels both refreshing and restorative. It’s vibrant in color, bold in flavor, and gentle on the stomach. Whether you’re exploring Indonesian cuisine or just want a unique upgrade to classic chicken soup, this one will surprise and satisfy.

Once you try it, you’ll come back to it again and again.