Soto Lamongan

Soto Lamongan is a beloved Indonesian chicken soup that originates from Lamongan, a city in East Java. What makes soto Lamongan unique is its clear, fragrant broth infused with turmeric, and most notably, the addition of "koya" — a finely ground topping made from fried garlic and shrimp crackers (krupuk udang).

Koya is sprinkled generously over the soup just before serving, adding a deliciously salty, umami crunch that elevates the entire dish. The soup itself is made by simmering chicken in a broth flavored with spices like garlic, shallots, coriander, turmeric, galangal, and lemongrass.

The chicken is typically boiled, shredded, and added back to the broth or placed on top of the rice in the bowl. Unlike creamy sotos (like soto Betawi), soto Lamongan is known for its light, clear, golden-yellow broth, but it packs deep flavor. Traditionally, it’s served with steamed rice, often already placed in the bowl before the soup is poured over.

Common accompaniments include boiled egg, shredded cabbage, vermicelli noodles (sohun), bean sprouts, fried shallots, lime wedges, and of course, koya. A side of sambal (chili paste) is usually offered for those who want extra heat. Soto Lamongan is commonly enjoyed for breakfast or lunch, served in humble warungs, roadside stalls, or at home.