Ayam Goreng Daun Jeruk: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight
Ingredients:
- 1/2 chicken, cut into pieces
- 13 kaffir lime leaves
- 1 lemongrass stalk, bruised
- 2 bay leaves
- 65 ml coconut milk (from 1 can of Kara)
- 400 ml water
- Salt, to taste
- Sugar, to taste
- Chicken stock powder, to taste
For the Spice Paste:
- 7 shallots
- 4 garlic cloves
- 2 candlenuts
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 3 cm turmeric root, roasted
- 1 cm galangal
- 1 cm ginger
- 2 kaffir lime leaves, ribs removed
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Spice Paste: Begin by grinding the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, ground black pepper, ground coriander, roasted turmeric root, galangal, ginger, and kaffir lime leaves into a smooth paste using a mortar and pestle or a food processor.
-
Sauté the Spice Paste: Heat a little oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the ground spice paste and sauté until fragrant.
-
Add Aromatics: Introduce the kaffir lime leaves, bruised lemongrass stalk, and bay leaves into the pan. Continue to sauté until the mixture is well-cooked and aromatic.
-
Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan and stir to coat with the spice mixture. Cook for a few minutes until the chicken starts to brown slightly.
-
Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Season with sugar, salt, and chicken stock powder to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
-
Simmer the Chicken: Reduce the heat to low and add the coconut milk. Continue to simmer until the chicken is tender and the sauce has reduced and thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
-
Fry the Chicken: In a separate pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Fry the cooked chicken pieces until they are golden brown and crispy.
-
Serve: Garnish the fried chicken with additional kaffir lime leaves if desired, and serve hot.
This recipe for Ayam Goreng Daun Jeruk brings out the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine with its aromatic spices and tender chicken. Perfect for a special meal or a flavorful addition to your weekly menu. Enjoy this delicious dish with steamed rice and your favorite side dishes!
