Classic Indonesian Coconut Chicken Stew

Simple Opor Ayam

Ingredients:

• 1/2 kg chicken, cut into pieces
• 4 eggs (optional; not used in this recipe)
• 3 stalks lemongrass, smashed
• 4 bay leaves
• 4 kaffir lime leaves
• 1 thumb-sized piece galangal, smashed
• 1 pack coconut milk (Kara brand)
• Water, as needed
• Cooking oil, for sautéing
• Fried shallots, for garnish

For the Spice Paste:

• 7 shallots
• 5 garlic cloves
• 5 candlenuts
• 1 thumb-sized piece ginger
• 2 thumb-sized pieces turmeric
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• Sugar, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Wash the chicken pieces thoroughly and briefly boil them. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • Blend the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, ginger, turmeric, coriander seeds, and black pepper into a smooth paste. You can use a food processor or mortar and pestle.

3. Sauté the Spice Paste:

   • Heat a generous amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the spice paste until it becomes fragrant and starts to caramelize.

4. Add Aromatics:

   • Add the smashed lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and bay leaves to the pan. Sauté for a few more minutes until the aromatics are well combined with the spice paste.

5. Cook the Chicken:

   • Add the chicken pieces to the pan. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spice mixture. Pour in about 1 cup of water, then add salt and sugar to taste. Stir and cook until the water starts to reduce and the flavors begin to meld with the chicken.

6. Add Coconut Milk:

   • Add additional water if necessary to ensure there is enough liquid to cook the chicken. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and stir in the coconut milk. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally to prevent the coconut milk from separating.

7. Adjust Seasoning:

   • Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or sugar if needed. Allow the opor ayam to simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened to your liking.

8. Serve:

   • Transfer the opor ayam to a serving dish. Garnish with fried shallots on top.

Enjoy this simple and delicious Opor Ayam with steamed rice or as part of a festive meal!