Tongseng Ayam: A Flavorful Indonesian Chicken Stew
Discover the rich and savory flavors of Tongseng Ayam, a traditional Indonesian chicken stew brimming with aromatic spices and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a hearty meal, this dish combines tender chicken with a fragrant blend of spices, crisp vegetables, and a touch of sweetness from kecap manis (sweet soy sauce). Follow this step-by-step guide to create an authentic and satisfying Tongseng Ayam.
Ingredients
- 1/2 whole chicken (cut into small pieces)
- 5 leaves of cabbage (chopped)
- 1 carrot (sliced)
- 2 tomatoes (cut into wedges)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 stalk lemongrass (smashed)
- 5 whole birdโs eye chilies
- 2 cups water
- Oil for sautรฉing
- Salt to taste
- Sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) to taste
For the spice paste:

- 6 shallots
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 thumb-sized piece of turmeric
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger
- 3 red chilies
- 2 candlenuts
- Coriander seeds
- Black pepper
Instructions
-
Prepare the Spice Paste:
Begin by preparing the spice paste. In a blender or food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, turmeric, ginger, red chilies, candlenuts, coriander seeds, and black pepper. Blend into a smooth paste, adding a little water if necessary to achieve the right consistency. -
Sautรฉ the Aromatics:
Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the prepared spice paste, lemongrass, and bay leaves. Sautรฉ for several minutes until the mixture becomes aromatic and the oil starts to separate from the paste. -
Cook the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spice mixture. Cook until the chicken is halfway cooked and starting to brown. -
Simmer with Vegetables:
Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the sliced carrots and cook until they start to soften. Season with salt and kecap manis to taste. Adjust the sweetness and saltiness to your preference. -
Add Cabbage and Tomatoes:
Once the carrots are tender, add the chopped cabbage and tomato wedges. Stir gently and allow the stew to simmer until the cabbage is wilted and the chicken is fully cooked. -
Final Adjustments:
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If the stew needs more flavor, you can add a bit more salt or kecap manis. -
Serve:
Once everything is well-cooked and the flavors have melded together, remove from heat. Serve the Tongseng Ayam hot with steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Enjoy the delightful blend of spices and the tender, flavorful chicken in this classic Indonesian Tongseng Ayam. Perfect for any meal, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.