Gulai Ayam Kampung (MSG-Free) Recipe
Experience the rich and aromatic flavors of traditional Indonesian cuisine with this delightful recipe for Gulai Ayam Kampung, a fragrant chicken curry that is both comforting and satisfying. This version is MSG-free, making it a wholesome choice for a family meal. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients results in a curry that is both flavorful and nourishing.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole kampung chicken (cut into 8 or 10 pieces)
For the Spice Paste:
- 7 shallots
- 5 cloves garlic
- 3 candlenuts
- 3 pieces of turmeric (about 3 inches each)
- 1 piece of ginger (about 2 inches)
- 10 red chilies
- 5 bird’s eye chilies (red)
For the Additional Seasonings:
- 2 stalks lemongrass (bruised)
- 1 piece galangal (bruised, about 1 inch)
- 3 bay leaves
- 5 kaffir lime leaves
- 10 tablespoons instant coconut milk (e.g., Sun Kara brand)
- 500 ml to 750 ml water
- Salt to taste
- Sugar to taste (e.g., 1 sachet Tropicana sugar)
- Mushroom seasoning to taste (e.g., Totole brand)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken:
- Clean and drain the pieces of kampung chicken thoroughly.
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Prepare the Spice Paste:
- Blend all the ingredients for the spice paste (shallots, garlic, candlenuts, turmeric, ginger, red chilies, and bird’s eye chilies) until smooth.
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Cook the Spices:
- Heat a small amount of cooking oil in a large pot. Add the blended spice paste and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the bruised galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and bay leaves to the pot. Continue to sauté for a few minutes to release their flavors.
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Cook the Chicken:
- Add the chicken pieces to the pot and stir briefly to coat the chicken with the spice mixture.
- Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the chicken is tender.
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Add Coconut Milk and Seasonings:
- Stir in the instant coconut milk. If you prefer a more soupy consistency, add additional water at this stage.
- Season with salt, sugar, and mushroom seasoning to taste. Simmer until the curry reaches your desired consistency and the flavors meld together.
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Final Adjustments:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Cook until the curry is well-blended and the chicken is fully cooked.
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Serve:
- Serve the Gulai Ayam Kampung hot. For a traditional touch, enjoy it on its own or with rice. As a personal preference, it can also be enjoyed with a boiled egg for a hearty meal.
This Gulai Ayam Kampung is a testament to the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine, featuring aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk. It’s a wonderful dish to share with family and friends, promising a satisfying meal that is both rich in flavor and free from MSG. Enjoy! 🌟
