Indonesian Sweet Soy Chicken (Ayam Kecap Padang) Recipe

Ayam Kecap Padang Recipe

Discover the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine with this savory Ayam Kecap Padang, a traditional chicken dish featuring a blend of aromatic spices and a sweet soy sauce reduction. Perfect for a comforting family meal or a special occasion, this recipe brings the essence of Padang cooking into your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1/2 chicken (cut into pieces)
• 1 large onion (sliced)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 candlenut (or macadamia nut)
• 1/4 nutmeg
• 6 kaffir lime leaves (torn into pieces)
• 3 calamansi limes (juiced; do not substitute)
• 100 ml sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
• 10 whole green bird chilies (left whole)
• 3 green bird chilies (sliced)
• 2 tablespoons margarine
• Water (as needed)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

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   • Slice the large onion thinly.
   • Mince the garlic, and grind the candlenut and nutmeg together.

2. Cook the Chicken:

   • Fry the chicken pieces in a bit of oil until they are golden brown and nearly cooked through. For a richer flavor, use chicken that has been pre-marinated with a bit of turmeric and salt, or simply season with garlic and salt.

3. Make the Spice Base:

   • In a large pan, heat the margarine over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until it becomes fragrant and translucent.
   • Add the ground garlic, candlenut, and nutmeg to the pan. Continue to sauté until the mixture is aromatic and the spices are well incorporated.

4. Simmer the Dish:

   • Add the torn kaffir lime leaves to the pan.
   • Pour in the sweet soy sauce (kecap manis) and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
   • Squeeze the juice from the calamansi limes into a small bowl, then mix with enough water to make approximately 1 cup of liquid. Strain this mixture to remove any pulp or seeds before adding it to the pan.

5. Add the Chilies and Chicken:

   • Add the whole green bird chilies and sliced green bird chilies to the pan.
   • Place the fried chicken pieces into the pan, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce.

6. Simmer and Season:

   • Allow the dish to simmer gently, uncovered, until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is fully cooked. This should take about 10 minutes.
   • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Finish and Serve:

   • Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded, remove the pan from heat.
   • Serve the Ayam Kecap Padang hot with steamed rice.

Enjoy the delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors in this traditional Indonesian dish!