Spicy Indonesian Ayam Rica-Rica with Thai Basil

Ayam Rica-Rica: A Flavorful Indonesian Delight

Ayam Rica-Rica, a popular dish from the vibrant cuisine of Indonesia, is renowned for its spicy, aromatic flavors that delight the taste buds with every bite. This dish combines tender, fried chicken with a rich, aromatic spice paste, creating a meal that is both comforting and exciting. Follow this recipe to recreate this delicious Indonesian classic in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg chicken, boiled until fully cooked, then fried until slightly crispy
• 1 bunch of Thai basil leaves (kemangi)

For the Spice Paste:

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• 7 shallots
• 7 cloves garlic
• 5 candlenuts (kemiri)
• 5 red chilies
• 20 bird’s eye chilies (adjust to taste)
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger
• 1 thumb-sized piece of turmeric
• 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal
• 1 thumb-sized piece of kencur (optional)
• 1 tomato
• 2 kaffir lime leaves
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 stalk lemongrass
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Seasonings:

• Salt to taste
• Sugar to taste
• Seasoning powder to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spice Paste:

   • In a blender, combine the shallots, garlic, candlenuts, red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, ginger, turmeric, galangal, and kencur (if using). Blend into a smooth paste.

2. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the blended spice paste to the pan.
   • Sauté the paste, stirring frequently, until it becomes fragrant and the oil starts to separate from the paste.

3. Add Liquid and Seasonings:

   • Pour a small amount of water into the pan with the spice paste. Stir to combine.
   • Season with salt, sugar, and seasoning powder. Adjust the seasoning to taste.

4. Simmer the Chicken:

   • Add the fried chicken pieces to the pan with the spice paste. Stir well to ensure the chicken is coated with the spice mixture.
   • Allow the chicken to cook in the spice paste for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld and the spices infuse the meat.

5. Add Aromatics:

   • Add the Thai basil leaves, and gently stir until they start to wilt and release their aroma.

6. Finish and Serve:

   • Remove the pan from heat. Serve the Ayam Rica-Rica hot, accompanied by steamed rice to complement the spicy and aromatic flavors.

Enjoy the delightful complexity of Ayam Rica-Rica, a true celebration of Indonesian cuisine that brings a burst of flavor to your dining table.