Spicy Indonesian Ayam Rica-Rica: Fiery Chicken Delight

Ayam Rica-Rica: A Fiery Delight

Ingredients:

• 1 kg chicken (kampung variety), cut into small pieces
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 piece of galangal, sliced
• 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
• 1 pandan leaf, cut into 3 sections
• 1 knot of turmeric leaf
• 3 kaffir lime leaves
• A handful of basil leaves
• 3 spring onions, sliced
• Salt, to taste
• Seasoning (optional)
• Cooking oil, for sautéing
• Water, as needed

For the Spice Paste:

• 4 cloves garlic
• 6 shallots
• 1/2 inch ginger
• 1 inch turmeric
• 15 bird’s eye chilies (adjust to taste)
• 1 piece of lemongrass, finely chopped
• 1/2 inch galangal, finely chopped

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken pieces thoroughly and rub with lime juice. Set aside to marinate.

2. Prepare the Spice Paste: Blend garlic, shallots, ginger, turmeric, bird’s eye chilies, lemongrass, and galangal into a smooth paste.

3. Sauté the Spice Paste: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the spice paste until fragrant. Add pandan leaf, kaffir lime leaves, turmeric leaf, galangal, and lemongrass. Cook until aromatic.

4. Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spice paste. Season with salt and optional seasoning. Stir again.

5. Simmer: Add enough water to cover the chicken. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the chicken is tender.

6. Finish the Dish: Once the chicken is cooked through, add sliced spring onions and basil leaves. Stir briefly to combine.

7. Serve: Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Happy Cooking! 😍