Kare Ayam + Tahu: A Delightful Indonesian Coconut Curry
Introduction
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this delicious Kare Ayam + Tahu recipe, a coconut curry featuring tender chicken and tofu. This dish combines aromatic spices, creamy coconut milk, and fresh herbs, making it a comforting choice for any meal. The interplay of textures from the crispy tofu and succulent chicken creates a delightful experience that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process of making this authentic dish that reflects the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia!
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken (Ayam) | 1/2 kg |
| Tofu (Tahu) | 2 pieces (cut diagonally) |
| Galangal (Lengkuas) | 1 medium piece |
| Lemongrass (Serai) | 1 stalk |
| Ginger (Jahe) | 1 piece |
| Bay Leaves (Daun Salam) | 2 leaves |
| Lime Leaves (Daun Jeruk) | 2 leaves |
| Ground Black Pepper (Merica) | to taste |
| Salt (Garam) | to taste |
| Palm Sugar (Gula Merah) | to taste |
| Coconut Milk (Santan) | to taste |
| Spice Paste (Bumbu Halus): | |
| Red Shallots (Bawang Merah) | 10 cloves |
| Garlic (Bawang Putih) | 3 cloves |
| Candlenuts (Kemiri) | 2 pieces |
| Coriander (Ketumbar) | a pinch |
| Turmeric (Kunir) | to taste |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Sugar | 5 g |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by cutting the tofu into medium-sized diagonal pieces. Set aside. Clean the chicken and cut it into serving pieces.
-
Fry the Tofu:
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, gently fry the tofu pieces until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.
-
Blanch the Chicken:
- In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add the chicken pieces and blanch them for a few minutes to remove impurities. Remove from the pot and set aside.
-
Make the Spice Paste:
- In a blender or mortar and pestle, combine the red shallots, garlic, candlenuts, a pinch of coriander, and turmeric. Blend until smooth to form a spice paste.
-
Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot or wok, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the prepared spice paste and sauté until fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
-
Add the Herbs:
- Once the spice paste is aromatic, add the lemongrass, galangal, ginger, bay leaves, and lime leaves. Continue sautéing until the herbs are tender and the aroma fills your kitchen.
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Combine the Chicken and Tofu:
- Add the blanched chicken and fried tofu into the pot. Stir gently to coat the chicken and tofu with the fragrant spice mixture.
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Incorporate the Coconut Milk:
- Pour in the coconut milk, stirring well to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt, ground black pepper, and palm sugar to taste.
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Simmer:
- Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully and the chicken to become tender.
-
Finish and Serve:
- Once the dish is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with crispy fried shallots for an extra touch of flavor and crunch.
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Enjoy!
- Pair this delightful kare ayam + tahu with steamed jasmine rice or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy the richness of the flavors that dance on your palate with each bite.
Conclusion
This Kare Ayam + Tahu dish is a testament to the vibrant flavors and aromas of Indonesian cooking. The combination of chicken and tofu, infused with aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk, creates a meal that is both satisfying and nourishing. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite. So roll up your sleeves and embark on this culinary adventure—your taste buds will thank you!
Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and make it your own. Happy cooking!
