Aromatic Thai Basil Chicken Stew

Ayam Masak Kemangi: Fragrant Indonesian Chicken Stew

Ingredients:

• 1 kg chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 handful of Thai basil leaves
• 2 stalks green onions, chopped
• 1 teaspoon mushroom seasoning (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons lime or lemon juice
• Salt, to taste
• For the spice paste:
  • 8 shallots
  • 5 cloves garlic
  • 2-inch piece turmeric, peeled
  • 2-inch piece ginger, peeled
  • 8 candlenuts
• Cooking oil for sautéing

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Begin by thoroughly washing the chicken pieces. Drain well and set aside.

2. Make the Spice Paste:
   In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, turmeric, ginger, and candlenuts. Blend into a smooth paste. If needed, add a little water to facilitate blending.

3. Sauté the Spice Paste:
   Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the spice paste to the pot, along with the bruised lemongrass and bay leaves. Sauté the mixture until it becomes fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste.

4. Cook the Chicken:
   Add the chicken pieces to the pot, stirring well to coat them with the spice paste. Cook for a few minutes, allowing the chicken to sear and absorb the flavors.

5. Simmer:
   Pour in enough water to cover the chicken. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer until the chicken is tender and cooked through, about 30-40 minutes.

6. Season and Finish:
   Once the chicken is tender, season the dish with salt and mushroom seasoning to taste. Stir well. Add the lime or lemon juice, adjusting the acidity to your preference.

7. Add Fresh Herbs:
   Stir in the chopped green onions and Thai basil leaves. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the herbs to wilt and infuse their flavor into the stew.

8. Serve:
   Serve the Ayam Masak Kemangi hot, with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy the aromatic and flavorful Indonesian chicken stew!

This recipe for Ayam Masak Kemangi brings together a delightful blend of spices and fresh herbs, creating a fragrant and savory chicken stew that’s perfect for a comforting meal.