Indonesian Chicken Stew with Sweet Soy Sauce and Aromatic Spices

Tongseng Ayam: A Flavorful Indonesian Chicken Stew

Tongseng Ayam, a delightful Indonesian chicken stew, is a savory and aromatic dish that’s perfect for those who love rich, spiced flavors. This recipe features tender chicken pieces simmered in a blend of spices and herbs, complemented by the sweetness of kecap manis and the freshness of tomatoes and cabbage. Ideal for a comforting meal, this dish captures the essence of Indonesian cuisine with its harmonious blend of ingredients.

Ingredients:

• Chicken:

  • 1 pair of chicken breasts (diced into bite-sized pieces)

• Spice Paste:

  • 5 shallots
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 3 roasted candlenuts
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon white pepper powder
  • Salt to taste

• Other Spices and Herbs:

  • 5 cloves
  • 3 cm galangal, crushed
  • 1 stalk lemongrass, crushed
  • 5 kaffir lime leaves
  • 3 cardamom pods
  • 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)

• Vegetables and Garnish:

  • Tomatoes, cut into chunks
  • Cabbage, roughly chopped
  • 1 onion (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • Blend or grind the shallots, garlic, roasted candlenuts, cumin, white pepper, and salt into a smooth paste. You can use a blender or a traditional mortar and pestle for this step.

2. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant, making sure to cook it thoroughly to release its aromatic flavors.

3. Add the Spices and Herbs:

   • To the pan, add the cloves, crushed galangal, crushed lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and cardamom pods. Stir and cook for a few minutes to allow the spices to infuse their flavors into the oil.

4. Cook the Chicken:

   • Add the diced chicken breasts to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and partially cooked.

5. Simmer:

   • Pour in enough water to cover the chicken. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

6. Add Vegetables:

   • Incorporate the tomatoes and cabbage into the pan. Continue cooking until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.

7. Adjust Seasoning:

   • Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt or sweet soy sauce to suit your preference.

8. Serve:

   • Once the dish is cooked to your liking, remove from heat. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs or onions if desired.

Enjoy this flavorful Tongseng Ayam with steamed rice or as a standalone dish. Its rich and aromatic profile is sure to bring a taste of Indonesian cuisine right to your table.