Ayam Geprek Rica-Rica: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Ingredients:
- 1/2 kg chicken (cut into pieces)
- 8 shallots
- 5 garlic cloves
- 10 red curly chilies
- 8 bird’s eye chilies
- Cooking oil
- 1 lime (juiced)
- 1 candlenut
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 stalk lemongrass (bruised)
- Salt, to taste
- Sasa seasoning, to taste
- Magic seasoning, to taste
- Sugar, to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Start by cleaning the chicken pieces thoroughly. Place them in a pot and add salt and lime juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the chicken is fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to drain.
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Make the Spice Paste: While the chicken is cooking, prepare the spice paste. In a mortar and pestle or blender, combine the red curly chilies, bird’s eye chilies, shallots, garlic cloves, and candlenut. Grind or blend until you achieve a smooth paste.
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Cook the Spice Paste: Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the spice paste to the hot oil and sauté until fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste. Add the bay leaves and bruised lemongrass, continuing to cook for a few more minutes.
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Season the Paste: Pour in a small amount of water to loosen the paste. Season with salt, sugar, Sasa seasoning, and Magic seasoning according to your taste preferences. Stir well and let the mixture simmer until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
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Fry the Chicken: Heat some oil in a separate pan and fry the cooked chicken pieces until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
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Assemble the Dish: Place the fried chicken pieces on a serving plate. Using a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon, lightly crush the chicken to flatten it a bit. Generously spoon the spicy, flavorful sauce over the top of the chicken.
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Serve: Your Ayam Geprek Rica-Rica is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve with steamed rice and fresh vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
This vibrant Indonesian dish is sure to impress with its spicy, savory, and aromatic flavors, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Enjoy the irresistible combination of crispy chicken and bold, rich spices!
