Authentic Balinese Ayam Betutu: Spicy Slow-Cooked Chicken

Ayam Betutu: A Traditional Indonesian Delight

Ayam Betutu is a renowned Balinese dish that showcases the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Indonesian cuisine. This slow-cooked chicken dish, deeply infused with a blend of spices and herbs, is perfect for special occasions or a delightful family meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to prepare this flavorful Indonesian classic.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole free-range chicken
• 5 cloves garlic
• 7 shallots
• 1 large red chili
• 3 candlenuts
• 1 thumb-sized piece of turmeric
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger
• 1 thumb-sized piece of kencur (a type of aromatic ginger)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt to taste
• Optional: 1 teaspoon of seasoning powder
• 2 stalks lemongrass (white part only), smashed
• 3 lime leaves
• 1 lime
• Cooking oil for sautéing

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

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   • Clean the chicken thoroughly, then rub it with the juice of one lime. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before rinsing it clean again.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, shallots, red chili, turmeric, candlenuts, ginger, and kencur. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • Heat some cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the spice paste until it becomes fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste.

4. Add Aromatics:

   • Add the smashed lemongrass and lime leaves to the pan. Stir to combine with the spice paste.

5. Cook the Chicken:

   • Add the prepared chicken to the pan, ensuring it’s well coated with the spice mixture. Pour in enough water to cover the chicken. Add sugar, salt, and optional seasoning powder to taste.

6. Simmer:

   • Allow the chicken to cook over low heat until it’s tender and fully cooked, about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Stir occasionally, and add more water if needed to keep the chicken partially submerged.

7. Serve:

   • Once the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded together, remove it from the heat. Serve hot and enjoy this authentic Balinese dish with steamed rice.

Pro Tip: Ayam Betutu is often enjoyed with steamed rice and a side of fresh vegetables or sambal for added spice. It also pairs wonderfully with a simple cucumber salad.

Enjoy your culinary journey to Bali with this delicious Ayam Betutu!