Spiced Indonesian Chicken Pepes with Thai Basil and Banana Leaves

Pepes Ayam Daun Kemangi: Indonesian Spiced Chicken Wrapped in Banana Leaves

Ingredients:

For the Spice Mixture:

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• 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
• 3 large red chilies
• 10 red curly chilies
• 5 shallots
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 thumb-sized piece of turmeric
• 1/2 thumb-sized piece of ginger
• 5 candlenuts
• Salt, to taste
• Flavor enhancer, to taste
• Granulated sugar, to taste

For Garnishing:

• 1 tomato or starfruit, cut into 8 pieces
• 8 bird’s eye chilies
• 1 thumb-sized piece of lemongrass
• Bay leaves
• Thai basil leaves
• Banana leaves
• Toothpicks

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spice Mixture: Begin by blending all the spices into a smooth paste. Use a food processor or mortar and pestle to thoroughly combine the red chilies, red curly chilies, shallots, garlic, turmeric, ginger, and candlenuts. Season with salt, flavor enhancer, and granulated sugar according to your taste.

2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Add the freshly ground spice paste to the chicken and mix well to ensure that each piece is evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

3. Prepare the Banana Leaves: Carefully clean and soften the banana leaves by passing them over an open flame or briefly steaming them. This will make them more pliable and easier to fold.

4. Assemble the Pepes: Lay out a piece of banana leaf and place a portion of the marinated chicken in the center. Add the garnishing ingredients: pieces of tomato or starfruit, bird’s eye chilies, lemongrass, bay leaves, and Thai basil leaves on top.

5. Wrap and Secure: Fold the banana leaf over the chicken to create a neat packet. Secure the edges with toothpicks to ensure the packet remains closed during cooking.

6. Steam the Pepes: Arrange the wrapped packets in a steamer. Steam for approximately 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the flavors have melded together.

7. Grill for Extra Flavor: After steaming, carefully unwrap the banana leaf packets. Preheat a grill and place the opened packets on the grill. Grill until the banana leaves are slightly charred and the chicken develops a smoky aroma.

8. Serve: Transfer the grilled Pepes Ayam Daun Kemangi to a serving platter. The aromatic spices and tender chicken, infused with the freshness of the basil and the earthy flavor of the banana leaves, are ready to be enjoyed.

This traditional Indonesian dish offers a delightful blend of spices and herbs, beautifully wrapped in fragrant banana leaves, making it a perfect choice for an exotic and flavorful meal. Enjoy your Pepes Ayam Daun Kemangi with steamed rice or as part of a larger feast!