Authentic Indonesian Opor Ayam: Creamy Chicken Stew

Opor Ayam: A Traditional Indonesian Chicken Stew

Opor Ayam is a beloved Indonesian chicken stew that’s rich, aromatic, and deeply flavorful. This traditional dish is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, combining tender chicken with a blend of spices and coconut milk. Here’s how to make this comforting and fragrant stew:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 kg chicken, cut into pieces
• 10 shallots
• 5 cloves garlic
• 1-inch piece of ginger
• 1-inch piece of galangal
• 2-inch piece of turmeric
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 stalks lemongrass
• 1 packet candlenuts (approx. 500 grams)
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin
• Sugar, to taste
• 1 packet instant coconut milk (65 ml)
• Approximately 5 liters water
• Oil, for cooking
• Royco seasoning, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Begin by boiling the chicken pieces in a pot of water until they are slightly tender. This process helps to infuse the chicken with flavor and prepares it for the next stages of cooking.

2. Blend the Spices:
   While the chicken is boiling, prepare the spice paste. In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, ginger, galangal, and turmeric. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:
   Heat a generous amount of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the blended spice paste and sauté until it becomes fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste.

4. Add Aromatics:
   To the pot, add the bay leaves and lemongrass. Continue to sauté, allowing the spices and aromatics to mingle and infuse the oil with their flavors.

5. Incorporate Coconut Milk:
   Pour in the instant coconut milk and stir well to combine with the sautéed spices. This will create a rich and creamy base for the stew.

6. Combine Chicken and Broth:
   Add the pre-cooked chicken pieces to the pot. Mix thoroughly to ensure the chicken is well coated with the spice mixture.

7. Add Broth and Seasonings:
   Pour in the water used to boil the chicken earlier, adding enough to cover the chicken and create a stew-like consistency. Stir well. Season with Royco seasoning and sugar to taste.

8. Simmer:
   Allow the stew to simmer gently until the chicken is fully cooked and tender, and the flavors are well combined. This should take about 30-45 minutes. The stew should be aromatic and rich in flavor.

9. Serve:
   Once the Opor Ayam is cooked and the flavors are perfectly melded, serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and is perfect for a comforting meal.

Enjoy the rich, spicy, and creamy goodness of Opor Ayam—a dish that embodies the essence of Indonesian cuisine with every delicious bite!