๐ฎ๐ฉ Authentic Balinese Indonesian Satay Chicken ๐
What is it?
Balinese Satay Chicken is a delicious and popular dish in Indonesian cuisine. It consists of skewered and grilled chicken pieces, marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and served with a rich peanut sauce. The dish is known for its combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.
History:
Indonesia has a rich culinary tradition, and satay, in various forms, has been enjoyed in the region for centuries. The Balinese version of satay has its unique twist, with a blend of local ingredients and influences. It’s often prepared for special occasions, family gatherings, and even as street food.
Components:
- Chicken: Boneless chicken pieces, typically thigh or breast, are the primary ingredient.
- Marinade: A flavorful mix of traditional Balinese spices, which may include garlic, shallots, ginger, turmeric, lemongrass, coriander, and coconut milk.
- Peanut Sauce: A rich and creamy sauce made from roasted peanuts, coconut milk, lime leaves, tamarind, and various spices for a hint of sweetness and spiciness.
- Skewers: Bamboo or metal skewers for threading the marinated chicken.
Steps to Prepare:
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Marinating the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, prepare the marinade by blending the spices and coconut milk. You can use a food processor for a smooth consistency.
- Marinate the chicken pieces in this mixture for at least 2-4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
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Making the Peanut Sauce:
- Roast the peanuts until they’re slightly browned, then grind them into a paste.
- In a saucepan, combine the peanut paste, coconut milk, lime leaves, tamarind, and spices.
- Cook over low heat until the sauce thickens. Add sugar and salt to taste.
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Skewering and Grilling:
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.
- Preheat your grill or barbecue to medium-high heat.
- Grill the skewers, turning occasionally and basting with some of the marinade, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
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Serving:
- Serve the Balinese Satay Chicken hot, with the peanut sauce on the side.
- It’s often accompanied by steamed rice and a fresh cucumber-onion salad.
Time Needed:
- Marinating the chicken: 2-4 hours or overnight.
- Making the peanut sauce: 15-20 minutes.
- Skewering and grilling: 20-30 minutes.
In total, you can prepare Authentic Balinese Indonesian Satay Chicken in about 3-5 hours, considering marinating time. It’s a delightful dish that brings together the bold flavors of Indonesia and is sure to satisfy your taste buds! ๐ฝ๏ธ๐ถ๏ธ๐ฅ
Certainly! Here are some nutrition facts and health information for Authentic Balinese Indonesian Satay Chicken:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving):
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Protein: 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
- Fat: 20-25 grams
- Fiber: 2-4 grams
Health Information:
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Protein Source: Chicken is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and repair.
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Balanced Macronutrients: This dish provides a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, which can contribute to sustained energy levels.
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Spices and Antioxidants: The marinade often contains spices like turmeric and ginger, which have potential health benefits due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
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Healthy Fats: The peanut sauce contains healthy fats from coconut milk and peanuts. These fats can support brain health and provide a feeling of fullness.
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Fiber: If served with a side of vegetables or rice, you can increase the fiber content of the meal, which is good for digestion.
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Moderation: While this dish can be nutritious, be mindful of portion sizes and the amount of peanut sauce you use as it can be calorie-dense.
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Customization: You can make this dish healthier by using lean cuts of chicken and reducing the amount of sugar in the peanut sauce, or opting for a lower-sugar alternative.
Remember that the specific nutritional content can vary based on the ingredients and portion sizes you use when preparing the dish. It’s always a good practice to tailor recipes to your dietary needs and preferences.