Telugu-style Soto Lamongan

Ingredients

Telugu-style Soto Lamongan differs from the original Indonesian version by incorporating Telugu spices and cooking techniques. The Telugu version uses spices such as curry leaves, mustard seeds, and red chilies, which add a distinct spiciness and aroma to the dish. Additionally, the Telugu-style tempering, consisting of cumin seeds, garlic, and dried red chilies, enhances the overall flavor profile. These adaptations create a unique fusion of Indonesian and Telugu flavors, making the dish a delightful culinary experience. We alse have the original recipe for Soto Lamongan, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) chicken or beef, cut into small pieces 500g (1.1 lb) chicken or beef, cut into small pieces
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 carrot, peeled and sliced 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup coconut milk 1 cup coconut milk
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons oil 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 dried red chilies 2 dried red chilies
• 10 curry leaves 10 curry leaves
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving Lemon wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté until the seeds start to crackle.
2. 2.
   Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the chicken or beef pieces and cook until they are browned on all sides.
4. 4.
   Add diced tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
5. 5.
   Add the cubed potatoes and sliced carrots. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
6. 6.
   Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. 7.
   Stir in the coconut milk and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
8. 8.
   Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
9. 9.
   Serve hot with steamed rice or Telugu-style bread, along with lemon wedges for squeezing over the soup.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken or beef — Ensure that the meat is cut into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking and tenderness.
• Mustard seeds — Toast the mustard seeds in a dry pan before adding them to the dish to enhance their flavor.
• Coconut milk — Shake the can of coconut milk well before using to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Dried red chilies — Adjust the quantity of dried red chilies according to your spice preference. Remove the seeds for a milder flavor.
• Garlic — Use fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor. Mince them finely to release their aroma.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of spiciness, add a teaspoon of Telugu red chili powder or a few chopped green chilies.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the cooked potatoes and carrots with the back of a spoon before adding the coconut milk.
• To make it more filling, add cooked noodles or rice vermicelli to the soup.
• Adjust the salt and spices according to your taste preferences.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors tend to develop and intensify.

Serving advice

Serve Telugu-style Soto Lamongan hot in individual bowls. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the soup just before eating to enhance the flavors. Accompany it with steamed rice or Telugu-style bread, such as roti or dosa, for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish each bowl of Telugu-style Soto Lamongan with a sprig of fresh cilantro leaves to add a pop of color. Serve it in traditional Telugu-style bowls or clay pots for an authentic touch. Pair it with a side of Telugu-style pickles or chutneys to complement the flavors of the soup.