Indonesian Village Chicken Stew: Rustic and Flavorful Ayam Kampung Recipe

Indonesian Village Chicken Stew (Ayam Kampung Tanpa Santan)

Ingredients:

• 1 free-range village chicken (cut into pieces)
• Spice Paste:
  • 8 shallots
  • 6 cloves garlic
  • 4 candlenuts
  • 2 large red chilies (add more for extra heat, if desired)
  • 2-3 cm ginger and turmeric
• Additional Seasonings:
  • 2 lemongrass stalks (crushed)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Bird’s eye chilies (to taste, whole)
  • Galangal (crushed)
  • Salt and sugar (to taste)
  • Tamarind paste (to taste)
  • Chicken broth (as needed)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Cut the village chicken into pieces and boil until tender.

2. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • Grind or blend shallots, garlic, candlenuts, red chilies, ginger, and turmeric into a smooth paste.

3. Cooking:

   • Heat a cooking pan and sauté the spice paste until fragrant. Add the additional seasonings (lemongrass, bay leaves, bird’s eye chilies, galangal) and mix well.

4. Combine with Chicken:

   • Add the boiled village chicken to the pan, stirring until well-coated with the spice mixture.

5. Add Seasonings:

   • Pour in some chicken broth to adjust the consistency of the stew. Season with salt, sugar, and tamarind paste according to taste.

6. Simmering:

   • Allow the stew to simmer until the flavors are well-absorbed. Adjust the amount of broth based on your preferred thickness of the gravy.

7. Final Touch:

   • Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot.

Enjoy this hearty Indonesian village chicken stew, rich in traditional flavors and perfect for a comforting meal with rice or crusty bread.