Indonesian Chicken Soup With Noodles Turmeric And Ginger Recipe : Step By Step Guide

Indonesia, with its vast archipelago and rich culinary heritage, is home to some of the most flavorful and aromatic dishes in the world. Among these, Indonesian Chicken Soup with Noodles, Turmeric, and Ginger is a dish that encapsulates the essence of the country’s food culture. This vibrant and comforting soup is a harmonious blend of fragrant spices, tender chicken, and nourishing broth, often served with a tangle of noodles to complete the meal.

The dish is known locally as Soto Ayam, and it’s a dish that varies from region to region. The inclusion of turmeric and ginger not only gives it a bright golden hue but also imbues the soup with layers of flavor and an irresistible aroma. Whether served as street food or a homemade family recipe, Indonesian Chicken Soup with Noodles is not only a delicious comfort food but also a bowl of history and tradition.

In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about this warming soup: from the ingredients, cooking process, and flavor profiles, to some expert tips and creative variations you can try in your kitchen.

Indonesian Chicken Soup With Noodles Turmeric And Ginger Recipe

This Indonesian-inspired chicken soup recipe combines some of the most aromatic ingredients in Southeast Asian cuisine. The turmeric and ginger create a fragrant broth that soothes the soul, while the chicken, noodles, and a variety of garnishes make each spoonful a burst of flavor and texture. The beauty of this recipe lies in how customizable it is to your own tastes.

Ingredients Needed

To create this comforting dish at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For The Soup

1 whole chicken (or 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs): The backbone of the soup, adding rich flavor to the broth.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Used for sautéing the aromatics and starting the base of the soup.
2 stalks lemongrass: Bruised, to release its citrusy fragrance.
4 kaffir lime leaves: They bring a distinct citrusy, floral flavor to the broth.
1 onion: Chopped, for sweetness and depth of flavor.
4 garlic cloves: Minced, adding an earthy base note.
2 inches fresh ginger: Peeled and sliced, bringing a subtle heat and warmth.
2 inches fresh turmeric: Fresh turmeric is preferable for its bold flavor, but dried ground turmeric works too.
1 teaspoon coriander seeds: Ground, offering a warm, nutty flavor that complements the turmeric and ginger.
1 teaspoon cumin seeds: Lightly toasted, adding an earthy, smoky element to the soup.
1 tablespoon fish sauce: A salty umami kick.
Salt and pepper: To taste, to balance all the flavors.
6 cups chicken broth: You can use homemade or store-bought.
1 tablespoon coconut milk (optional): For added creaminess.
Fresh cilantro leaves: Chopped, for garnish.

For The Noodles And Toppings

200g egg noodles (or rice noodles, depending on your preference): The perfect base to soak up all that flavorful broth.
2 hard-boiled eggs: Halved, for an extra layer of texture and richness.
Fried shallots: Crispy, sweet, and aromatic.
Lime wedges: For an optional zesty kick.
Chili slices: For those who like it spicy!
Bean sprouts: For crunch and freshness.

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s dive into how to bring all these ingredients together to create a mouthwatering Indonesian chicken soup.

Prepare The Chicken

In a large pot, add the whole chicken (or chicken thighs) and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface to keep the broth clear and clean. Allow the chicken to cook for about 30-40 minutes until the meat is tender and fully cooked.
Sauté The Aromatics

While the chicken cooks, heat vegetable oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced ginger. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant and the onions are soft.
Spice It Up

Add the bruised lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, turmeric, cumin, and coriander to the pan. Stir them for a minute or two, allowing the spices to release their oils and intensify the aroma.
Combine

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool. Strain the broth to remove any solids. Add the sautéed aromatics and spices to the strained broth. Bring the broth back to a simmer, and season with fish sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. You can also add a tablespoon of coconut milk here if you want a creamier texture.
Shred The Chicken

Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding the bones and skin. Set it aside.
Cook The Noodles

In a separate pot, cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set them aside.
Assemble The Soup

To serve, place a handful of noodles in a bowl, then pour the hot turmeric and ginger broth over them. Top with the shredded chicken, halved hard-boiled eggs, fried shallots, bean sprouts, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and chili slices. You can drizzle a little extra coconut milk for creaminess.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s take a closer look at some of the key ingredients and why they are so crucial to this recipe:

Turmeric: Not just for its vibrant golden color, turmeric is packed with anti-inflammatory properties and offers a warm, slightly peppery flavor. It’s a staple in Southeast Asian cooking and one of the building blocks of this soup’s unique taste.
Ginger: Fresh ginger adds a zingy and peppery element that balances the richness of the chicken. It also brings warmth and a slight heat, which is perfect for colder weather.
Lemongrass: Bruising the stalks helps release their lemony, citrusy oils, making the broth fragrant and aromatic.
Kaffir lime leaves: These leaves are a secret weapon in Indonesian cooking. Their citrusy flavor elevates the broth and adds an exotic flair.
Fish sauce: This ingredient might be unfamiliar to some, but it adds a salty, umami boost to the broth, intensifying the flavors in a way that regular salt can’t.

Expert Tips

Broth clarity: For a crystal-clear broth, make sure to skim off any impurities (foam) that appear on the surface of the water when cooking the chicken. This ensures that the final soup is visually appealing and doesn’t have a greasy or murky appearance.
Noodle texture: If you’re using egg noodles, be sure not to overcook them. They should have a bit of bite left, as they will continue to soften when the hot broth is poured over them.
Adjust spice level: If you like your soup spicier, feel free to add extra fresh chili or chili paste. You can also serve it with a side of sambal (Indonesian chili paste) for an extra kick.
Make it ahead: This soup actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. Store the soup and noodles separately, so the noodles don’t absorb too much broth and get soggy.

Recipe Variations

While the classic version of this Indonesian Chicken Soup is incredibly delicious, there are a few variations you can try to tailor the dish to your tastes:

Vegetarian version: Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken. You can also add extra vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or mushrooms for a heartier soup.
Add coconut milk: For a richer and creamier broth, stir in a bit more coconut milk. This version gives the soup a slightly sweeter flavor.
Noodle options: Try using rice noodles, which are often used in variations of this dish, or even glass noodles for a lighter texture.
Curry twist: If you’re craving more curry flavor, add a tablespoon of red curry paste to the aromatics. This will give your soup a bold, spicy depth.

Final Words

Indonesian Chicken Soup with Noodles, Turmeric, and Ginger is a vibrant and deeply satisfying dish. It’s more than just a soup; it’s a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Indonesia. From the aromatic blend of spices to the comforting broth, every bite of this soup tells a story of tradition and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking warmth on a cold day or just looking for a new, exciting dish to try, this recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household.

FAQs

What Is Indonesian Chicken Soup With Noodles, Turmeric, And Ginger?

Indonesian chicken soup with noodles, turmeric, and ginger is a flavorful, aromatic soup that combines chicken, fresh ginger, turmeric, and noodles in a savory broth. It’s typically a comfort food, spiced with a blend of Indonesian seasonings, offering a combination of savory, earthy, and slightly spicy flavors.

What Are The Key Ingredients In This Indonesian Chicken Soup Recipe?

The key ingredients in this recipe are chicken (often bone-in for added flavor), turmeric, ginger, garlic, lemongrass, shallots, and noodles. The soup base typically includes coconut milk or chicken stock, depending on the variation. Additional vegetables like carrots and potatoes can also be included.

Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead Of Bone-in Chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of bone-in chicken. However, using bone-in chicken adds more depth and richness to the broth. If using chicken breast, you may want to cook it separately and shred it before adding it to the soup to avoid overcooking.

What Kind Of Noodles Are Best For Indonesian Chicken Soup?

The best noodles for this soup are typically egg noodles or rice noodles, as they absorb the flavors of the broth well. If you want a more authentic touch, you can use Indonesian noodles such as ’mi kunir’ or “mi ayam”, which are commonly used in this type of dish.

Is The Turmeric In This Soup Just For Color Or Does It Add Flavor?

Turmeric in this soup is both a key flavoring agent and adds vibrant color to the broth. It has a slightly earthy, peppery, and warm flavor that complements the ginger and garlic, giving the soup its signature taste.

Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this soup by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and using vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, and potatoes to enhance the flavor.

How Do I Store Leftovers Of This Soup?

Leftover Indonesian chicken soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup (without noodles) for up to 3 months. When reheating, add fresh noodles for the best texture.

Can I Add Other Spices Or Herbs To This Soup?

Yes, additional spices and herbs can be added to enhance the flavor. Common options include kaffir lime leaves, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise. Fresh cilantro or basil can be added as a garnish to bring in a fresh, herby flavor.

How Spicy Is Indonesian Chicken Soup With Turmeric And Ginger?

The spiciness of this soup can vary depending on the amount of chili or fresh chili paste used. Traditional recipes may have a mild level of heat, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili according to your preference.

What Is The Best Way To Serve Indonesian Chicken Soup?

Indonesian chicken soup is best served hot, with a side of lime wedges for added freshness. It is commonly garnished with crispy fried shallots, fresh herbs like cilantro, and sometimes with a hard-boiled egg. Serve it alongside steamed rice or with a bowl of noodles, depending on your preference.