Spicy Basil Chicken with Aromatic Sambal

Ayam Jerit Jeding

Ingredients

• Chicken

  • 1/2 kg chicken breast, boneless and skinless (or any preferred part)
  • 1 bunch of basil leaves
  • 6 kaffir lime leaves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger
  • 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal
  • 1 stalk of lemongrass

• For the Sambal (Chili Paste)

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  • 12 orange bird’s eye chilies
  • 5 red curly chilies
  • 5 shallots
  • 2 cloves of garlic

• For the Ungkep (Braised Spice Mix)

  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 2 thumb-sized pieces of turmeric

• Seasonings and Other Ingredients

  • Sugar, to taste
  • Salt, to taste
  • White pepper, to taste
  • Water, as needed
  • Cooking oil, as needed

Steps

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • In a pot, braise the chicken with the ungkep spices (garlic and turmeric, finely ground) and 100 ml of water for about 5 minutes until cooked. Once done, strain the chicken and set it aside.

2. Fry the Chicken:

   • After braising, fry the chicken until golden brown and then drain it on paper towels to remove excess oil.

3. Prepare the Sambal:

   • Using a mortar and pestle, coarsely grind the sambal ingredients: orange bird’s eye chilies, red curly chilies, shallots, and garlic. Add sugar, salt, and white pepper to taste. Set aside.

4. Cook the Sambal:

   • In a frying pan, heat some oil and sauté the sambal mixture. Add a little water and cook until fragrant.
   • Add the crushed lemongrass, galangal, ginger, kaffir lime leaves, and bay leaves to the sambal. Sauté until the spices are well combined and fragrant.

5. Combine and Simmer:

   • Add the fried chicken to the pan with the sambal. Mix well to ensure the chicken is coated with the sambal and spices.
   • Simmer for a few minutes until the flavors are well absorbed by the chicken.

6. Finish with Basil:

   • Just before serving, add the basil leaves to the pan and cook for an additional minute until wilted.

7. Serve:

   • Transfer the Ayam Jerit Jeding to a serving dish and enjoy it with steamed rice.

This Ayam Jerit Jeding recipe is a delightful combination of aromatic herbs and spicy sambal, perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors and a bit of heat. The use of fresh basil leaves at the end adds a refreshing touch, making it a well-rounded and delicious dish. Enjoy!