Indonesian Spicy Chicken (Ayam Rica-Rica) Recipe

Spicy Indonesian Chicken (Ayam Rica-Rica)

Indulge in the vibrant and tantalizing flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this recipe for Ayam Rica-Rica, a dish renowned for its spicy, aromatic profile. This dish features succulent chicken pieces, marinated and fried to perfection, then simmered in a richly spiced sauce with fresh herbs and a tangy twist from lime. Ideal for those who appreciate a dish with a bold kick, this recipe will elevate your culinary repertoire and delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 kg chicken (cut into pieces)
• 4 shallots
• 2 garlic cloves
• 8 red chilies
• 1 tomato
• 1 stalk lemongrass
• Fresh basil or scallions (to taste)
• Flavor enhancer (to taste)
• Salt (to taste)
• Instant chicken seasoning (to taste)
• 250 ml water
• 1 piece of palm sugar
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Begin by thoroughly washing the chicken pieces. Marinate the chicken with instant chicken seasoning for 10 to 15 minutes to infuse it with flavor. After marinating, heat oil in a pan and fry the chicken pieces until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once fried, drain excess oil and set the chicken aside.

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2. Prepare the Spice Paste:
   While the chicken is frying, prepare the spice paste. In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, and red chilies. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.

3. Prepare the Aromatics:
   Slice the tomato and cut the lemongrass into pieces.

4. Cook the Spice Paste:
   Heat a bit of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the blended spice paste and sauté until it becomes fragrant and begins to release its oils. This step is crucial as it develops the base flavor of the dish.

5. Add Tomatoes and Lemongrass:
   Add the sliced tomato and lemongrass to the pan. Stir and cook until the tomato starts to soften and blend into the spice paste.

6. Simmer with Water:
   Pour in the water and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Adjust the seasoning with salt and a flavor enhancer to taste.

7. Combine with Chicken:
   Add the fried chicken pieces to the pan, ensuring they are well-coated with the spicy sauce. Add the fresh basil or scallions. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to absorb the aromatic spices.

8. Finish and Serve:
   Once the chicken is thoroughly coated in the sauce and has absorbed the flavors, remove the pan from heat. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the dish for a fresh, tangy finish. Serve the Ayam Rica-Rica hot, garnished with additional fresh basil or scallions if desired.

This vibrant and spicy Ayam Rica-Rica is perfect for pairing with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes. Its combination of heat, sweetness, and tanginess makes it a memorable dish that is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy this delightful taste of Indonesia!