Crispy Savory Fried Chicken with Aromatic Spices

Ingredients

• 1 kg chicken, cleaned and cut into pieces
• Coconut water (optional, can be replaced with water)
• 4 cloves garlic
• 8 shallots
• 2 candlenuts
• A pinch of black pepper
• A pinch of coriander
• 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 kaffir lime leaves, remove the stems
• Turmeric (fresh or ground)
• Ginger
• Galangal
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Cut the chicken into pieces according to your preference. Clean thoroughly and set aside.

2. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • In a food processor or mortar and pestle, combine the garlic, shallots, candlenuts, black pepper, coriander, turmeric, and ginger. Blend or grind until the mixture forms a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Spice Mixture:

   • Heat a generous amount of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste to the pan. Sauté the paste along with the bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, and galangal. Continue to cook until the paste becomes fragrant and starts to release its oils.

4. Simmer the Chicken:

   • Add the chicken pieces to the pan with the sautéed spices. Pour in the coconut water (or plain water if you prefer). Season with salt. Let the chicken simmer gently until it is cooked through and tender. Check the seasoning and adjust as needed.

5. Fry the Chicken:

   • In a separate pan, heat more oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the cooked chicken pieces. Fry the chicken until it turns golden brown and crispy on the outside.

6. Drain and Serve:

   • Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot.

Enjoy your flavorful and crispy fried chicken, perfect for any meal! 😘😘