Indonesian Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk and Spices

Kari Ayam: A Flavorful Indonesian Chicken Curry

Ingredients:

• 1/2 large free-range chicken, cut into 12 pieces
• 500-750 ml coconut milk (from 1 coconut)
• 1 tablespoon tamarind paste, diluted with 2 tablespoons water

For the Spice Paste:

• 10 shallots
• 6 garlic cloves
• 5 candlenuts
• 3 cm fresh turmeric
• 3 cm fresh ginger
• 1 large red chili
• 1/2 tablespoon whole coriander seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon palm sugar
• Salt and granulated sugar to taste

For the Spice Bouquet:

• 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
• 3 cm galangal, bruised
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 kaffir lime leaves, split in half and vein removed
• 3 cardamom pods
• 2 cloves
• 5 cm cinnamon stick
• 1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • In a blender or food processor, combine shallots, garlic, candlenuts, turmeric, ginger, red chili, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and black pepper. Blend into a smooth paste.

2. Cook the Spices:

   • Heat a bit of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the spice paste and spice bouquet (lemongrass, galangal, bay leaf, kaffir lime leaves, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon stick, and curry powder). Sauté until fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste.

3. Add the Chicken:

   • Add the chicken pieces to the pot. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spice mixture. Cook for a few minutes until the chicken is well mixed with the spices.

4. Incorporate Tamarind and Coconut Milk:

   • Pour in the tamarind paste and stir. Gradually add the coconut milk, stirring continuously. If the chicken is not yet tender, you may add the coconut milk in stages, allowing the chicken to cook through before adding more.

5. Simmer:

   • Reduce the heat and let the curry simmer gently. Stir occasionally until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

6. Adjust Seasonings:

   • Taste the curry and adjust with salt and granulated sugar as needed.

7. Serve:

   • Garnish with fried shallots before serving. Enjoy this rich, aromatic curry with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.

This Kari Ayam offers a delightful blend of spices and coconut milk, making it a comforting and aromatic dish that’s perfect for any meal.