Indonesian Grilled Chicken with Savory Sweet Glaze

Ingredients

• 500g chicken, cut into pieces
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 shallot, minced
• 1 candlenut, ground
• Soy sauce (Saori brand), to taste
• Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis), to taste
• Brown sugar, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Water, as needed

Steps:

1. Prepare the Spice Blend:

   • In a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder, finely grind the candlenut, garlic, and shallot until you achieve a smooth paste.

2. Sauté the Spice Paste:

   • Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the ground spice paste and sauté until fragrant and golden brown.

3. Cook the Chicken:

   • Add the chicken pieces to the pan, stirring to coat them with the spice paste.

4. Add Sauces and Seasonings:

   • Pour in the soy sauce (Saori brand), sweet soy sauce, and add a pinch of salt and brown sugar. Stir well to combine.

5. Simmer:

   • Add enough water to the pan to cover the chicken halfway. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Cook until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked, about 30 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, keeping in mind that the sauce will become saltier as it reduces.

6. Grill the Chicken:

   • Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken pieces from the pan and place them on the skillet. Occasionally brush with the remaining cooking sauce from the pan.

7. Finish Grilling:

   • Grill the chicken until it develops a slightly charred, crispy exterior, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The chicken should have a nice grilled appearance and be slightly crispy on the outside.

8. Serve:

   • Once done, remove from heat and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this flavorful grilled chicken with your favorite side dishes.

This Indonesian-style grilled chicken, or Ayam Bakar Suka-Suka, offers a delicious balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors, perfect for a satisfying meal.