Crispy Indonesian Spicy Fried Chicken (Ayam Geprek)

Ayam Geprek Recipe: Indonesian Crispy Fried Chicken with Spicy Sambal

Experience the vibrant flavors of Indonesia with this recipe for Ayam Geprek, a delightful dish featuring crispy fried chicken topped with a fiery sambal. This dish combines perfectly seasoned, crunchy chicken with a spicy, aromatic sambal for a truly unforgettable meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 chicken breast
• 100 grams all-purpose flour
• 300 ml ice water
• 200 ml cooking oil (for frying)
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder

For the Sambal

• 10 red bird’s eye chilies
• 1 clove garlic
• 3 shallots
• 1 tablespoon roasted peanuts

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, coriander powder, paprika powder, turmeric powder, chili powder, and chicken bouillon powder. Mix well to create a seasoning blend.

2. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle half of the prepared spice mix over the chicken breast, ensuring it is well coated. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least one night to absorb the flavors.

3. Prepare the Breading Station: Set up a breading station with two bowls. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, add the ice water.

4. Coat the Chicken: Dip the marinated chicken breast into the flour, ensuring it is evenly coated. Next, immerse the floured chicken in the ice water for about 2 minutes to create a light, crisp coating.

5. Recoat the Chicken: After soaking in the ice water, return the chicken to the flour and coat it thoroughly. Flip the chicken over for an even coat and let it rest for another 2 minutes.

6. Fry the Chicken: Heat the cooking oil in a frying pan over low heat. Fry the chicken breast for 10 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towels.

7. Prepare the Sambal: In the same oil, fry the red chilies, garlic, shallots, and roasted peanuts for about 1 minute, or until they are fragrant and slightly crispy. Remove from the oil and drain.

8. Make the Sambal: Using a mortar and pestle, grind the fried chilies, garlic, shallots, and peanuts into a coarse paste. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder, and 1/2 teaspoon sugar. Mix well. Stir in 1 tablespoon of hot oil from the frying pan to enhance the flavors.

9. Assemble the Dish: Place the fried chicken into the mortar with the sambal paste. Use the pestle to gently mash and mix the sambal with the chicken until the chicken is well-coated with the spicy sambal.

10. Serve: Your Ayam Geprek is now ready to be served. Enjoy it hot, paired with steamed rice and fresh vegetables for a complete Indonesian meal experience.

This Ayam Geprek recipe brings a burst of flavor with each bite, offering a crispy exterior and a spicy kick that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for a hearty meal or a special occasion, this dish showcases the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia. Enjoy the crunch, the spice, and the authentic taste of this beloved Indonesian favorite.