Soto
(Coto, Tauto)
Throughout Indonesia, soto is known under various names such as the Makassar coto or the Pekalongan tauto. However, this traditional Indonesian soup is usually associated with the island of Java, where it is believed to have appeared in its original form.
Nowadays there is no right way to prepare soto because the varieties are numerous and usually adapted to local cuisines. Although it is believed that soto was developed because of a strong Chinese influence in the country, it is more likely that the soup was created following common cooking traditions of the area and utilizing the ingredients which were available in abundance.
This versatile dish also has a myriad of accompaniments such as stewed eggs, grilled offal, fried tofu, and either chili or soy sauce. Soto is regarded as comfort food, and it can be found everywhere in Indonesia - from local open-air eateries to high-end restaurants.
This authentic Indonesian creation is also popular and commonly eaten in Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei.
Types of Soto
Serve with
Lontong
Lontong is a traditional Indonesian rice cake, made by boiling tightly packed rice in banana leaves until it forms a firm, compact texture.... Read more
Serundeng
Serundeng is a traditional condiment that's typically associated with Java. It's made with a combination of roasted ground coconut and various spices and seasonings such ... Read more
WHERE TO EAT The best Soto in the world (according to food experts)
"Coconut sauce mixed with shrimp broth, a natural and quite fitting taste."
"Murky broth is a result of shrimp and fish soups added while cooking. It is more savory, and smells stronger: This is why they call at a 'glorious soup'. Just great!"
"This food stall is always full of customers who want to try their delicious Soto Betawi with a savory blend of milk and coconut."
"Established in 1940, this place offers an authentic Soto, prepared in a unique way. Beef in here is fried until it gets crunchy, and only then soaked into the soup."
"Their Soto with a thick broth full of seasonings will certainly make you addicted."
"Mamat is famous for the delicious Soto with some super tender beef."
"The most unique flavors around here come with their special chicken-skin Soto. The texture of fried bits is just perfect on my tongue."
"I gave the soup a quick sip, and it was just delicious beyond my imagination. The chicken broth was flavourful, packing the perfect mix of sourly, savoury and spicy tangs."
"We all agreed that the soto ayam (Cubed rice, chicken, bean sprouts and a pototo cake in a spicy chicken broth) was really good. The soup was sweet and savoury and the portion was really generous for $2.00."
"Love the light use of santan inside the broth, as it highlights other ingredients really well. Fun fact: This is the only place where the kikil (knuckles) is thinly sliced, giving it a unique feel inside your mouth."
