Ayam Ungkep: Indonesian Spiced Fried Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 kg chicken
- 5 cloves garlic
- 4 shallots
- 3 fingers of turmeric (about 3 inches)
- 1/4 finger of ginger (about 1 inch)
- 1 stalk lemongrass
- 3 bay leaves
- Coriander to taste
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
Instructions:
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Prepare the Spice Paste:
- Blend the garlic, shallots, turmeric, ginger, and coriander until they form a smooth paste. This fragrant blend is the heart of our Ayam Ungkep.
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Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a bit of oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until aromatic and the raw smell of the spices dissipates.
- Add the chicken pieces to the pan, turning to coat them evenly with the spice paste.
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Simmer the Chicken:
- Pour in enough water to cover the chicken, ensuring it will cook thoroughly.
- Add the bay leaves, lemongrass, and salt. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the chicken cook until it is tender and the flavors are fully absorbed. This usually takes about 30-40 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken pieces.
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Fry the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is well-cooked and infused with the spices, remove it from the pan and let it cool slightly.
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces until they turn golden brown and have a crispy exterior. This step adds a delightful crunch to the tender, spiced chicken.
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Serve:
- Serve the Ayam Ungkep hot with steamed rice and your favorite Indonesian side dishes. Enjoy the rich, aromatic flavors of this traditional Indonesian fried chicken.
This Ayam Ungkep recipe brings the authentic flavors of Indonesian cuisine right to your kitchen. Each bite of the crispy, spiced chicken is a testament to the harmonious blend of fragrant spices and tender meat, making it a perfect dish for any meal. Enjoy!
