Kare Ayam (Specialty from Boyolali)
This delectable Kare Ayam is a beloved specialty from Boyolali, renowned for its rich and aromatic flavors. This dish combines tender shredded chicken with crispy potatoes, delicate rice noodles, and a mix of vegetables, all enveloped in a creamy coconut milk curry. Perfectly seasoned with a blend of spices and fresh herbs, this comforting meal is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 1/2 kg chicken, boiled, fried, and shredded
- 1/2 kg potatoes, peeled, thinly sliced, soaked in salted water for 10 minutes, then fried
- 1 package rice noodles (soun/bihun), soaked in hot water and drained
- 4 carrots, peeled, cut into chunks, and boiled
- 6 stalks celery, cleaned and thinly sliced
- 2 stalks green onions, cleaned and thinly sliced
For the Spice Paste:
- 8 shallots
- 6 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp coriander seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 small piece of turmeric, fried
- 3 candlenuts
- 1/4 nutmeg
- 2 cloves
- A small stick of cinnamon
For the Spice Mix:
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 piece of galangal, crushed
- 2 stalks lemongrass, crushed
- 2 cardamom pods
- 1.5 liters coconut milk (adjust thickness to preference)
- Salt to taste
- A pinch of MSG (optional)
- Sugar to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Spice Paste: In a blender or food processor, blend the shallots, garlic, coriander, cumin, black pepper, turmeric, candlenuts, nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon until smooth.
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Cook the Spice Paste: In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant, about 5 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn.
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Add the Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk and stir continuously to prevent it from curdling. Bring to a simmer.
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Season the Curry: Add salt, sugar, and MSG to taste. Stir well and let the mixture simmer gently.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the pre-fried chicken, fried potatoes, boiled carrots, and soaked rice noodles to the curry. Stir to combine and let everything heat through.
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Prepare the Garnishes: In a separate pan, quickly fry the celery and green onions just until they’re slightly wilted.
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Assemble the Dish: In individual serving bowls, place a portion of the rice noodles. Top with chicken, potatoes, carrots, celery, and green onions. Garnish with crispy fried shallots.
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Serve: Enjoy the Kare Ayam with warm rice and crispy crackers. If crackers aren’t available, fried tofu is a great alternative.
This flavorful Kare Ayam from Boyolali is perfect for a comforting family meal or a special gathering. Its rich, aromatic curry will tantalize your taste buds and warm your heart. Enjoy!
