Creamy Indonesian Chicken and Tofu Stew (Opor Ayam Tahu)

Opor Ayam Tahu: A Flavorful Indonesian Chicken and Tofu Stew

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that melds tender chicken wings with velvety tofu in a rich, aromatic coconut sauce, look no further than this Indonesian classic: Opor Ayam Tahu. This comforting stew is infused with a harmonious blend of spices and herbs, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and memorable. Perfect for a family meal or a special occasion, Opor Ayam Tahu is sure to impress with its deep flavors and luscious texture.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken wings
• 10 pieces of firm tofu, cut into cubes
• For the Spice Paste:
  • 5 shallots
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 2 cm fresh turmeric root
  • 2 candlenuts
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• For the Stew:
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 3 kaffir lime leaves
  • 1 stalk lemongrass, smashed
  • 1 cm galangal, smashed
  • Salt, sugar, and chicken bouillon powder to taste
  • 1 packet of coconut milk (or approximately 200-250 ml)
  • Water, as needed
  • Cooking oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Begin by thoroughly washing the chicken wings and tofu. In a pot, briefly blanch them in boiling water to remove impurities. Set aside.

2. Make the Spice Paste: Using a food processor or mortar and pestle, grind the shallots, garlic cloves, fresh turmeric, and candlenuts into a smooth paste. Stir in the ground black pepper and ground coriander.

3. Cook the Spice Paste: Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until it becomes fragrant and golden brown.

4. Add Aromatics: To the skillet, add the bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, and galangal. Stir to combine and cook for a few more minutes.

5. Combine Ingredients: Add the blanched chicken wings and tofu cubes to the skillet. Toss gently to coat them evenly with the spice mixture.

6. Simmer the Stew: Pour in the coconut milk and enough water to cover the ingredients. Season with salt, sugar, and chicken bouillon powder to taste. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

7. Cook to Perfection: Allow the stew to simmer until the chicken is tender and the sauce has reduced and thickened to your liking. This should take about 30-40 minutes.

8. Finish and Serve: Adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the Opor Ayam Tahu hot, garnished with crispy fried shallots for added texture and flavor.

Enjoy this savory and aromatic Opor Ayam Tahu with steamed rice or as part of a larger Indonesian feast. Its rich, coconut-infused sauce and flavorful spices make it a dish that’s sure to be a hit at your next meal.