Indonesia, with its cultural diversity, is also rich in culinary treasures that tantalize the taste buds. One of the most popular Indonesian foods with many variations throughout the archipelago is Soto. This savoury soup dish is not only a delicious Indonesian food but also reflects the richness of spices and different culinary traditions in each region. Getting to know Soto better means exploring the authentic flavours of Indonesian food.
According to records from the Indonesian Culinary Association (AKI) of Central Java Province, at a traditional culinary festival held in Semarang on April 20, 2025, Soto was named one of the most popular Indonesian foods among visitors. The Head of AKI Central Java, Mr. Bambang Setiawan, S.Pd., stated in his speech that the uniqueness of the taste and variations of Soto from various regions show how rich Indonesia’s culinary heritage is. “Each type of Soto has a different characteristic flavour, making it an interesting culinary experience to explore,” he said.
The uniqueness of Soto lies in its spice-rich broth, such as turmeric, ginger, candlenuts, and coriander, which give it a distinctive aroma and taste. The fillings of Soto also vary, ranging from shredded chicken or beef, bean sprouts, vermicelli, sliced tomatoes, to boiled eggs. Not to forget, the sprinkling of fried shallots and a squeeze of lime further enhance the enjoyment of this Indonesian food. Some famous variations of Soto include Soto Lamongan, Soto Betawi, Soto Bandung, and Soto Banjar, each with different flavours and complementary ingredients.
The Head of the Food Safety Section of the Solo City Health Office, Dr. Rina Wijayanti, M.Kes., at a food safety outreach event at Pasar Gede on Monday, April 21, 2025, emphasized the importance of using fresh and quality ingredients in making Indonesian food, including Soto. She also urged traders to maintain cleanliness in the food processing to preserve the taste and safety of Soto.
Enjoying Soto is not just about filling the stomach but also a flavour journey that introduces us to the diversity of Indonesian cuisine. The warmth of the broth and the blend of spices make Soto an Indonesian food suitable to be enjoyed anytime, whether in cold weather or as a satisfying lunch dish.