Authentic Padang Grilled Chicken with Coconut and Spices

Ayam Bakar Ala Resto Padang

Discover the rich flavors of traditional Indonesian cuisine with this recipe for Ayam Bakar Ala Resto Padang. This delectable grilled chicken dish, marinated with aromatic spices and coconut milk, offers a delightful taste of Padang’s culinary heritage. Perfect for a flavorful family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will transport you to the heart of Indonesia with every bite.

Ingredients

Spice Paste (Bumbu Halus):

• 12 shallots
• 6 garlic cloves
• 1 handful of red curly chilies
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger
• 1 thumb-sized piece of turmeric

For the Dish:

• 1 young rooster or free-range chicken (cut into pieces)
• 4 kaffir lime leaves, torn into pieces
• 2 stalks of lemongrass, smashed
• 4 turmeric leaves (2 tied into a bundle, 2 finely sliced)
• 100-120 ml thick coconut milk
• Salt, to taste
• Chicken bouillon powder, to taste
• Sugar, to taste
• Water, as needed

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • Begin by toasting or grilling the spice paste ingredients (shallots, garlic, red chilies, ginger, and turmeric) to release their essential oils and eliminate any raw smell. This step adds depth of flavor to your dish and ensures the spices are aromatic.

2. Blend the Spices:

   • Once toasted, blend the spices into a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • Heat a pan and add the blended spice paste. Cook over medium heat until fragrant.

4. Add Coconut Milk and Herbs:

   • Pour in the thick coconut milk and add the torn kaffir lime leaves, smashed lemongrass, and turmeric leaves (both the tied bundle and sliced pieces). Stir well.

5. Simmer:

   • Add enough water to cover the chicken pieces. Bring the mixture to a boil.

6. Marinate the Chicken:

   • Add the chicken pieces to the boiling mixture. Reduce the heat and simmer gently, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors. Cook for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened to a desirable consistency.

7. Grill the Chicken:

   • Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has reduced to a thick, flavorful coating, transfer the chicken to a grill or grill pan. Grill over medium heat until the chicken is charred and crispy on the outside.

8. Serve:

   • Serve your Ayam Bakar Ala Resto Padang hot, accompanied by steamed rice or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors of this traditional Indonesian dish!

Indulge in the aromatic and spicy essence of Padang with this Ayam Bakar recipe. Its blend of savory spices and creamy coconut milk makes it a mouthwatering addition to any meal.