TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Renowned for its diverse culture, Indonesia’s culinary scene stands as one of the living evidence of its richness. Among the mouth-watering options, Soto Betawi and Soto Lamongan are frequently cited as the best meat soup in Indonesia.
Infused with bold flavors, rich broths, and tender cuts of meat, every spoonful of the meal reflects tradition as they are about taste. Though Indonesia is synonymous with tropical heat, the savory warmth of its meat soups brings a kind of comfort that transcends weather.
TasteAtlas has revealed its ranking of the best varieties soto in Indonesia, with Soto Betawi named among the top contenders. Other notable entries include:
1. Soto Betawi
Originating from the country’s capital, Jakarta, Soto Betawi is often hailed as the best meat soup in Indonesia. This hearty dish features a rich, creamy broth made from a flavorful blend of coconut milk and aromatic spices. Typically served with rice, sambal chili sauce, and acar (pickled vegetables), Soto Betawi also includes fresh condiments like tomatoes and scallions.
2. Soto Lamongan
If you prefer something lighter than the creamy broth of Jakarta’s Soto Betawi, then Soto Lamongan might suit your taste buds better. This East Javanese chicken soup features a clear, turmeric-infused broth enriched with garlic and shallots. What sets it apart is the signature koya topping, a savory blend of powdered prawn crackers and fried garlic, that enhances the umami flavor.
3. Coto Makassar
When visiting South Sulawesi, Coto Makassar is a must-try that’s likely to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. With each spoonful, you'll quickly appreciate how its slightly nutty flavor, thanks to ground peanuts, pairs well with the tender, slow-cooked beef. Traditionally, it’s served with ketupat, a rice dumpling wrapped in coconut or banana leaves.
4. Soto Ayam
Perhaps the most common version of soto, Soto Ayam is a comforting chicken-based soup that arguably satisfies every taste bud. Made from rich ingredients like garlic, ginger, lemongrass, cumin, and coriander, the simple looks it showcased is incomparable to the comforting, hearty taste. To add an extra layer of crunchiness, people often enjoy Soto Ayam with shrimp crackers on the side.
5. Soto Babat
Soto Babat is undeniably one of the best variations soto in Indonesia, and it’s easy to see why. Bringing bold texture, the soup owes it to the chewy beef tripe. Similarly as other Indonesian meat soups, Soto Babat’s broth features flavorful ingredients such as garlic, ginger, shallots, coriander, turmeric, lemongrass, and galangal.
6. Soto Bandung
Another clear soup entry, Soto Bandung is perfect for those craving a lighter yet flavorful option. What sets this variation apart is the use of radish and fried soybeans, which both are rarely found in other types of soto. Interestingly, they pair with the clean, delicate broth.
7. Soto Padang
While West Sumatra is famously known for its Rendang, Soto Padang is an equally mouthwatering local gem. This flavorful dish features a clear beef broth infused with balanced spices, topped with crispy fried beef that adds a satisfying crunch. But Soto Padang’s remarkable taste doesn’t end there—the combination of crunchy fried vermicelli and savory potato patties make every spoonful a delightful mix of tastes.
8. Soto Medan
Once you taste Soto Medan, don’t be surprised if you find yourself asking for more. Made with either chicken or beef, this hearty meat soup features a rich, coconut milk-based broth infused with aromatic spices like lemongrass, turmeric, and candlenut. It’s typically served with a generous sprinkle of fried shallots and a side of fiery sambal for that extra kick.
9. Soto Kaki
Literally translated to “leg soup,” Soto Kaki is made with cow’s leg or trotter. This aromatic Indonesian dish is perfect for those who crave texture in every spoonful, often featuring skin, tendons, and other gelatinous cuts that melt in your mouth. It's no surprise that when it comes to juiciness and depth of flavor, the meat speaks for itself.
10. Soto Tangkar
Soto Tangkar has been named as TasteAtlas’ tenth-best meat soup in Indonesia. Once again, this Betawi-style favorite features a coconut milk-based broth infused with a bold blend of spices. Alongside this hearty flavor, you’ll also be chewing a spoonful of a tender, fall-off-the-bone tangkar (beef rib bones).
From the creamy richness of Soto Betawi to the nutty depths of Coto Makassar, each of these meat soups represents a unique corner of Indonesia’s culinary map. So next time you’re visiting, be sure to explore every bowl of soto, which all are surely worth remembering.
If you’re curious more about the country’s culinary richness, let’s uncover the best Indonesian foods.
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