Spiced Indonesian Chicken in Banana Leaves (Pepes Ayam Bumbu Rempah)

Pepes Ayam Bumbu Rempah: Aromatic Spiced Chicken in Banana Leaves

This traditional Indonesian dish, Pepes Ayam Bumbu Rempah, combines tender chicken with a rich blend of spices, wrapped in fragrant banana leaves for an irresistible flavor. Follow these steps to create this delectable recipe.

Ingredients:

• 4 pieces chicken (preferably bone-in, skinless)
• 5 small red chilies (cabai rawit)
• 10 curly red chilies (cabai merah keriting)
• 4 shallots (bawang merah)
• 3 garlic cloves (bawang putih)
• 2 green tomatoes (tomat hijau)
• 1 thumb-sized piece of turmeric (kunyit)
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger (jahe)
• 2 candlenuts (kemiri)
• 2 bay leaves (daun salam)
• 2 kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk)
• A handful of basil leaves (daun kemangi)
• 1 stalk lemongrass (sereh)
• Sugar to taste
• Salt to taste
• Chicken bouillon powder (kaldu bubuk) to taste
• Lime juice (jeruk nipis)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Thoroughly clean the chicken pieces and rub them with salt and lime juice. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to marinate.

2. Toast the Spices:

   • In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, turmeric, and ginger until fragrant. This step ensures the spices release their essential oils and flavors.

3. Blend the Spices:

   • Using a blender or food processor, combine the toasted spices with the red chilies. Blend until you achieve a smooth, thick paste.

4. Marinate the Chicken:

   • Coat the chicken pieces evenly with the spice paste. Ensure the paste is well distributed over all sides of the chicken.

5. Add Aromatics:

   • Incorporate the basil leaves, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass (bruised), whole red chilies, and sliced green tomatoes into the mixture with the chicken.

6. Wrap in Banana Leaves:

   • Individually wrap each piece of chicken in banana leaves, securing them with toothpicks or tying with string to prevent the filling from escaping.

7. Steam the Chicken:

   • Steam the wrapped chicken for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. The steaming process infuses the chicken with the aromatic flavors and ensures a moist texture.

8. Grill the Chicken:

   • After steaming, remove the chicken from the banana leaves and place them on a grill. Grill the chicken over medium heat for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, to achieve a slight char and enhance the smoky flavor.

9. Serve:

   • Serve the Pepes Ayam Bumbu Rempah hot, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice and a side of fresh vegetables.

Enjoy the delightful taste of Indonesia with this flavorful Pepes Ayam Bumbu Rempah, a dish that brings together the essence of traditional spices and cooking techniques.