Savory Indonesian Chicken Stew with Coconut and Spices

Opor Ayam Ngirit Recipe: A Flavorful Indonesian Chicken Delight

This Opor Ayam Ngirit, a traditional Indonesian dish, is a rich and aromatic chicken stew that beautifully blends spices and coconut milk. Perfect for a comforting meal, this recipe is both simple and deeply flavorful. Here’s how to prepare this delightful dish.

Ingredients

• 3 pieces of chicken (any parts of your choice)
• 1/2 piece of labu siam (chayote), sliced into thin strips
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 kaffir lime leaf (remove the central stem)
• 1 stalk of lemongrass (bruised)
• 1 piece of galangal (bruised)
• 50 ml coconut milk
• 200 ml water
• Sugar (to taste)
• Salt (to taste)
• Flavor enhancer (optional, to taste)

Spice Paste:

• 3 shallots
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 candlenut
• 1 piece of turmeric (about 1-inch)
• 1 piece of ginger (about 1-inch)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Begin by cleaning the chicken pieces thoroughly. Squeeze some lime juice over the chicken and let it sit for 3 minutes. Then, boil the chicken for approximately 25 minutes to remove excess fat and impurities. Remove and set aside.

2. Prepare the Spice Paste:
   While the chicken is boiling, prepare the spice paste. Grind or blend the shallots, garlic, coriander seeds, black pepper, candlenut, turmeric, and ginger into a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:
   Heat some oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the prepared spice paste and sauté until fragrant. Next, add the bruised lemongrass, bay leaf, kaffir lime leaf, and galangal. Continue to sauté until the spices and aromatics are well combined and fragrant.

4. Combine Ingredients:
   Add the boiled chicken to the pan. Stir briefly to coat the chicken with the spice mixture. Pour in the water and bring it to a simmer. Add the sliced labu siam (chayote) to the pot.

5. Add Coconut Milk:
   Pour in the coconut milk, stirring gently to combine. Season with sugar, salt, and flavor enhancer (if using). Stir well.

6. Simmer and Adjust:
   Cover the pan and let it simmer until the sauce reduces slightly and the chicken is tender. Stir occasionally to ensure the coconut milk does not curdle. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

7. Serve:
   Once the flavors are well-developed and the chicken is thoroughly cooked, remove from heat. Serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.

Enjoy your Opor Ayam Ngirit, a delicious and comforting Indonesian chicken stew that’s sure to be a hit at your dining table.