Crispy Galangal Fried Chicken

Ayam Goreng Lengkuas (Fried Chicken with Galangal)

Ingredients:

• 1/2 chicken, cut into 4-6 pieces, or to taste
• 2-3 segments galangal (lengkuas)
• For the spice paste:
  • 4 shallots
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 2 candlenuts
  • 1/2 inch turmeric root
  • 1/2 inch ginger
• Additional ingredients:
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • A pinch of sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
  • 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 500 mL water
  • 1/2 lime
  • Cooking oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Wash the chicken thoroughly. Rub with lime juice and let it marinate for about 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Galangal:

   • Grate or blend the galangal and set aside.

3. Make the Spice Paste:

   • Blend or grind the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, turmeric, and ginger into a smooth paste.

4. Season the Chicken:

   • Rinse the chicken again and coat it with the spice paste, galangal, lemongrass, bay leaves, sugar, and salt. Add water and simmer until the liquid reduces and the chicken is cooked through.

5. Fry the Chicken:

   • Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

6. Fry the Remaining Spice Paste:

   • After frying the chicken, use the remaining oil to fry the leftover spice paste until it turns brown and fragrant.

7. Serve:

   • Serve the fried chicken with a sprinkle of the fried spice paste on top. Enjoy your delicious Ayam Goreng Lengkuas!

Notes:

• The marinating time ensures the chicken absorbs the flavors well.
• Adjust the salt and sugar according to your taste preferences.

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or as a part of a larger Indonesian meal.