The color and depth come from frying the spice paste first: turmeric, garlic, shallot, and candlenut cooked in oil until it darkens and smells toasty before it goes into the broth. Skip that fry and stir raw turmeric into the pot and the soup tastes flat and dusty instead of golden and fragrant.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep25 min
Cook45 min
Makes4 servings
CuisineIndonesian
Cost$$
Gluten-freeDairy-free
Contains eggs
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for4servings
Whole chicken
Simmered for the broth and shredded back in. A pasture-raised bird makes a richer stock.
Can you make Soto Ayam in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert
Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.
Can you freeze Soto Ayam? — Yes
Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Can you make Soto Ayam ahead of time? — Yes
Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Is Soto Ayam gluten-free? — Yes
Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.
Is Soto Ayam vegan? — No
No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.
Community Notes
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