Indonesian Spicy Braised Chicken with Aromatic Herbs

Ayam Bumbu Rajang

Ayam Bumbu Rajang is a flavorful Indonesian dish featuring tender chicken cooked in a rich, aromatic spice paste. This recipe, a beloved classic, is perfect for those who appreciate robust flavors and the heartiness of traditional Indonesian cuisine. The blend of spices and herbs imparts a deep, savory taste, making it an ideal accompaniment to steaming rice and sambal. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole kampong chicken (cut into pieces)

  Related Articles

  • 
    Indonesian Chicken and Egg Coconut Curry (Opor Ayam dan Telur)
  • 
    Crispy Fried Chicken with Zesty Indonesian Sambal Matah
  • 
    Spicy Indonesian Yellow Chicken Stew
  • 
    Chicken Carrot Pete Stir-Fry Delight

• Spice Paste:

  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 10 shallots
  • 1 piece turmeric root (about 1 inch)
  • 1 piece ginger (about 1 inch)
  • 5 candlenuts
  • 4 curly red chilies
  • 2 bird’s eye chilies
  • Black pepper (to taste)
  • Ground pepper (to taste)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • MSG (optional, to taste)
  • Sugar (to taste)

• Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 stalk lemongrass (bruised)
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 1 piece galangal (bruised)

• Others:

  • Water
  • Cooking oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Rinse the chicken pieces thoroughly and set aside.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • In a food processor or mortar and pestle, blend the garlic, shallots, turmeric root, ginger, candlenuts, curly red chilies, and bird’s eye chilies into a smooth paste. Set aside.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
   • Add the spice paste and sauté until it becomes fragrant and begins to darken slightly, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Add Additional Ingredients:

   • Incorporate the bruised lemongrass, bay leaves, and galangal into the skillet with the spice paste.
   • Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the paste is well-cooked and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.

5. Combine with Chicken:

   • Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and stir well to coat them evenly with the spice paste.

6. Simmer:

   • Pour enough water into the skillet to cover the chicken. Bring to a boil.
   • Reduce the heat to medium and let the chicken simmer, uncovered, for about 1 hour, or until the water has reduced and the chicken is tender. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning with salt, sugar, and MSG as needed.

7. Check Doneness:

   • After an hour, check the tenderness of the chicken. If necessary, add more water and continue simmering until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

8. Serve:

   • Once the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove from heat.
   • Serve hot with steamed rice and sambal for a complete and satisfying meal.

Enjoy this delectable Ayam Bumbu Rajang as a centerpiece of your meal, bringing a taste of Indonesia to your dining table. Its rich flavors and tender chicken make it a perfect choice for family gatherings and special occasions. Happy cooking and selamat menikmati!