Recipe Title: Simple Indonesian Fried Chicken (Ayam Goreng Tanpa Ungkep)
Ingredients:
- 1 kg chicken, cut into 12 pieces
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 thumb-sized piece of fresh turmeric, peeled
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon seasoning powder (optional)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by thoroughly cleaning the chicken pieces and cutting them into 12 portions. This will ensure even cooking and seasoning. -
Make the Spice Paste:
In a mortar and pestle or food processor, blend together the garlic, fresh turmeric, salt, and seasoning powder (if using) until you have a smooth, aromatic paste. This blend is the key to infusing the chicken with rich, deep flavors. -
Marinate the Chicken:
Rub the spice paste generously over the chicken pieces, ensuring each piece is well-coated. For optimal flavor, cover the seasoned chicken and refrigerate it overnight. Ideally, store the chicken in a container that can also hold fish to prevent cross-contamination and absorb any residual odors. -
Fry the Chicken:
Heat a generous amount of oil in a large frying pan or wok over very low heat. The oil should be enough to fully submerge the chicken pieces. Patience is key here; cooking on low heat allows the chicken to cook thoroughly without burning. Fry the chicken pieces slowly until they are golden brown and cooked through, which might take some time due to the low temperature. Ensure the chicken is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is perfectly fried, remove it from the oil and drain it on paper towels. Serve hot and enjoy the crispy, flavorful Indonesian fried chicken.
This traditional method ensures that the chicken is tender, juicy, and infused with a deep, rich flavor profile, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
