National Dish Indonesia: Soto Lamongan (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Soto Lamongan, one of Indonesia’s most beloved soups! This hearty bowl brings together a fragrant, golden broth, tender chicken and a flurry of fresh herbs for a dish that is pure comfort in every spoonful. Warmed through with turmeric and coriander, it makes a wonderfully soothing lunch or supper. Bring the lively flavours of an East Javanese kitchen straight to your own table.
About Soto Lamongan
Soto Lamongan is one of the most popular soups from Indonesia, celebrated for its savoury flavour and its varied, generous ingredients. At its heart sits chicken simmered in an aromatic broth that is lifted with a careful blend of spices. A defining feature of the dish is its use of coriander and fresh turmeric root, which give the soup both its characteristic golden colour and its unmistakable taste. In Indonesia, it is often enjoyed as a relaxed lunch or supper and offers an authentic taste of Indonesian cuisine.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 250 g chicken breast fillet
- 1 litre chicken stock
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 piece of fresh turmeric root, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander seeds
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 small chilli, chopped (to taste)
- Fresh coriander leaves, to garnish
- Rice or glass noodles, to serve
Shopping for the ingredients
When you set out to make Soto Lamongan, you can find everything you need at a local supermarket or an Indonesian grocery. Choose fresh, good-quality chicken breast fillets to bring out the best flavours. Be sure to pick up fresh herbs such as coriander too, as they are essential to both the taste and the look of the soup. Spices like turmeric and coriander are usually easy to find in the spice aisle or at a wholefood shop.
Preparing the dish
Preparing Soto Lamongan is fairly straightforward and takes only a few steps. Begin by cooking the chicken until it is completely done, then shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. While the chicken simmers, prepare the spices and vegetables by finely chopping the onion, garlic and chilli. A well-organised set of ingredients saves time and makes the cooking feel relaxed and effortless.
Step-by-step instructions
- Cook the chicken breast fillet in a pan of water with a pinch of salt until done, then remove and cut into small pieces.
- In the same pan, sauté the onion, garlic and chilli until lightly golden.
- Add the turmeric and ground coriander, toast briefly, then pour in the chicken stock.
- Add the chopped chicken, bay leaves and spices, and let the soup simmer for around 15 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh coriander and serve as you like with rice or glass noodles.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Soto Lamongan is easy to make both gluten-free and lactose-free. Just check that the chicken stock and the spices you use contain no hidden gluten. Glass noodles or rice make an ideal side, as they are naturally gluten-free. Using a plant-based alternative such as coconut milk can also create a lovely lactose-free variation, though this is not the traditional approach.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
There are flavourful alternatives to Soto Lamongan for vegans and vegetarians too. Instead of chicken, you can use tofu or seitan, which can be simmered in the broth in the same way to give a hearty result. Swap the chicken stock for a vegetable broth seasoned with the same spices. These small adjustments make the dish just as appealing for plant lovers as for traditional eaters — much like the all-vegetable Gado-Gado.
More tips and tricks
To deepen the aroma of Soto Lamongan, lightly crush the fresh spices and herbs as you cook so they release more flavour. A squeeze of lime juice just before serving lends the soup a refreshing lift. Play with the heat by using more or less chilli to suit your palate. Finally, an inviting presentation with fresh herbs and colourful sides adds an extra layer of pleasure to the meal.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Soto Lamongan is remarkably adaptable. You can change the protein to suit your preference, whether that is fish, chicken or a plant-based option. The spices can be dialled up or toned down to please different tastes. Feel free to add vegetables such as carrots or beans for extra colour and nutrition, making the dish even more wholesome.
Ingredient substitutions
If you cannot track down certain ingredients for Soto Lamongan, there are good alternatives to fall back on. Parsley can stand in for fresh coriander, though it will alter the typical flavour. You could also use curry powder in place of turmeric, which gives the recipe an interesting twist even if the taste shifts a little. Experiment with different variations to find your own personal style, just as you might when making a comforting Opor Ayam.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks pairs beautifully with an aromatic dish like Soto Lamongan. A chilled Indonesian beer or some coconut water complements the soup perfectly. For those who prefer alcohol-free options, a fresh lime cordial or a homemade iced tea adds a welcome refreshment. These drinks help round off the spices in the soup and make the most of the experience.
Serving and presentation ideas
To serve Soto Lamongan at its best, choose a large bowl or deep plate so the colours of the soup can really shine. Decorate with fresh coriander, lime wedges and perhaps a few slices of chilli for a touch of heat. Fresh bean sprouts or a scattering of peanuts also make a lovely addition, both in flavour and appearance. An appealing presentation pleases the eye and turns the meal into a small celebration.
A bit of history
Soto Lamongan comes from the town of Lamongan in East Java and has a long tradition within Indonesian cooking. The history of the dish traces back to the Arab influences that have strongly shaped the country’s food culture. It is often sold as street food, where families pass their own recipes down through the generations. This soup symbolises not only Indonesian gastronomy but also the rich cultural diversity of the country — a story it shares with the regional Soto Kudus.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Soto Lamongan
Soto Lamongan is more than just a soup; it is a feast for the senses that brings the flavours and culture of Indonesia to the plate. With its aromatic broth, tender chicken and fresh herbs, this traditional soup offers an extraordinary taste experience. Whether you enjoy it in its classic form or adapt it to your own preferences, Soto Lamongan is sure to become a hit in your kitchen. Let its delicious aromas tempt you and discover the wonderful variety of Indonesian cooking.
