Indonesian Yellow Chicken Curry (Opor Ayam Bumbu Kuning)

Opor Ayam Bumbu Kuning

Opor Ayam Bumbu Kuning is a beloved Indonesian dish renowned for its rich and aromatic curry-like sauce. This dish features tender chicken simmered in a blend of spices and coconut milk, creating a comforting and flavorful meal. Here’s how you can make it at home:

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:

  • 500 grams chicken, cut into pieces
  • 400 ml chicken stock (from boiling the chicken)

• For the Spice Paste:

  • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 candlenuts
  • 2 cm ginger, peeled
  • 2 cm turmeric root, peeled
  • 2 cm galangal root, peeled
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 kaffir lime leaves
  • 3 bird’s eye chilies (adjust to taste)

• Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 packet coconut milk (56 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon mushroom stock powder
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Rinse the chicken pieces thoroughly and place them in a pot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot, and reserve 400 ml of the chicken stock for later use.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • In a mortar and pestle, grind the coriander seeds, black pepper, candlenuts, ginger, turmeric root, and galangal root into a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the ground spice paste, bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, and bird’s eye chilies. Sauté until fragrant and the paste begins to turn golden.

4. Combine Ingredients:

   • Add the chicken pieces to the pan, stirring well to coat them with the spice paste. Cook for about 1 minute.

5. Add Liquids and Simmer:

   • Pour in the reserved chicken stock and add the mushroom stock powder, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to absorb the spices.

6. Add Coconut Milk:

   • Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the coconut milk gradually, ensuring it does not curdle. Continue to simmer until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is tender.

7. Final Touches:

   • Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors are well combined, remove from heat.

8. Serve:

   • Transfer the Opor Ayam Bumbu Kuning to a serving dish. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice or yellow rice for a complete meal.

Enjoy this fragrant and creamy Indonesian classic that brings a touch of Southeast Asia to your dining table!