Spicy Indonesian Chicken and Egg Stew (Pindang Telur dan Ayam Kampung)

Pindang Telur dan Ayam Kampung

This traditional Indonesian dish, Pindang Telur dan Ayam Kampung, combines the rich flavors of free-range chicken and boiled eggs in a fragrant and savory broth. The use of aromatic herbs and spices creates a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this delightful recipe.

Ingredients

• 1 kg young, free-range chicken (ayam kampung muda)
• 5 hard-boiled eggs, peeled
• Aromatic herbs and spices:
  • 3 bay leaves (daun salam)
  • 3 kaffir lime leaves (daun jeruk)
  • 1 stalk lemongrass (sereh)
  • 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal (lengkuas)
• Ground spices:
  • 5 cloves garlic
  • 5 shallots
  • 2 roasted candlenuts (kemiri)
  • 1 tablespoon ground coriander (ketumbar bubuk)
  • Salt, to taste
• Additional ingredients:
  • 2 tea bags
  • 150 grams palm sugar (gula aren), shaved
  • 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap bango)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken and Eggs:

   • Place the chicken pieces in a non-stick skillet or saucepan. Add the ground spices and the aromatic herbs and spices (bay leaves, kaffir lime leaves, lemongrass, and galangal).

2. Season the Broth:

   • Add the shaved palm sugar, sweet soy sauce, and salt to the chicken. Pour in enough water to cover the chicken. For a richer flavor, use one cup of hot water to steep the tea bags, creating a concentrated tea. This will infuse the broth with a deeper color and flavor.

3. Cook the Dish:

   • Cover the skillet or saucepan and cook over medium heat. Once the mixture begins to boil, reduce the heat to low. Allow the chicken to simmer gently until the liquid reduces and the chicken is tender and flavorful.

4. Add the Boiled Eggs:

   • Carefully add the peeled hard-boiled eggs to the pan during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Let the eggs absorb the flavors of the broth.

5. Finish and Serve:

   • Once the broth has reduced and the chicken is fully cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the dish hot, ideally accompanied by a side of sambal terasi (a spicy shrimp paste condiment) for an extra kick.

Enjoy this traditional Indonesian dish with steamed rice or as a flavorful standalone meal. The combination of tender chicken and aromatic spices creates a comforting and satisfying dish that’s sure to delight your taste buds.