Ayam Woku: A Flavorful Indonesian Chicken Dish
Ingredients:
- Chicken: 1/2 kg, cut into pieces
- Tomato: 1, sliced
- Lemongrass: 1 stalk, bruised
- Kaffir Lime Leaves: 3 leaves
- Bay Leaves: 2 leaves
- Sweet Basil: 1 bunch
- Spice Paste:
- Dried Red Chilies: 4
- Bird’s Eye Chilies: 6
- Shallots: 7
- Garlic Cloves: 3
- Turmeric: 1-inch piece
- Ginger: 1-inch piece
- Candlenuts: 5
- Salt: to taste
- Sugar: to taste
- Water: as needed
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into several pieces and rinse thoroughly.
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Make the Spice Paste: In a blender or food processor, combine the dried red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, shallots, garlic cloves, turmeric, ginger, and candlenuts. Blend until a smooth paste forms.
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Cook the Spice Paste: Heat a little oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet along with the kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, and bay leaves. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spice paste.
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Add Water: Pour in enough water to cover the chicken. Stir to combine, then season with salt and sugar to taste.
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Simmer: Allow the dish to simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the liquid has reduced. This should take approximately 30-40 minutes.
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Finish the Dish: When the liquid has reduced to a thicker consistency, add the sliced tomato and sweet basil. Continue to cook for a few more minutes until the basil is wilted and the tomato is slightly softened.
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Serve: Once the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together, remove from heat. Serve hot with steamed rice for a delicious meal.
Enjoy this aromatic and flavorful Ayam Woku as part of your next meal, bringing a touch of Indonesian cuisine to your table!
