Spicy Indonesian Fried Chicken (Ayam Goreng Bumbu)
Ingredients:
- 1/2 chicken, cut into pieces
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Sugar, to taste
- Cooking oil, for frying
Instructions:
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Prepare the Spice Paste: Begin by peeling and crushing the garlic cloves. In a mortar and pestle or food processor, combine the garlic with salt, a pinch of freshly ground black pepper, and a bit of sugar. Grind until you achieve a smooth paste. This aromatic blend will infuse the chicken with rich, savory flavors.
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Initial Cooking of Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces to the dry pan. Cook, turning occasionally, until the chicken releases its juices and they start to evaporate. Discard the accumulated liquid from the skillet to prevent steaming the chicken.
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Simmer with Spices: Pour enough water into the skillet to just cover the chicken. Add the prepared spice paste to the water. Stir to ensure the paste is well distributed. Allow the chicken to simmer gently in this spiced mixture until it is about halfway cooked. Once the chicken is partially cooked, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
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Fry the Chicken: In a separate frying pan, heat a generous amount of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the partially cooked chicken pieces. Reduce the heat to medium-low to ensure the chicken cooks through without burning. Fry until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on the outside.
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Serving: Remove the chicken from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot, and enjoy the crispy, flavorful delight of Indonesian-style fried chicken.
This recipe for Ayam Goreng Bumbu brings out the authentic taste of Indonesian cuisine with a perfect balance of spices and crispiness, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
