Spicy Indonesian Chicken and Tofu with Green Chili

Ayam Tahu Masak Cabe Hijau
Spicy Chicken and Tofu in Green Chili Sauce

This vibrant and flavorful dish, Ayam Tahu Masak Cabe Hijau, combines tender chicken and tofu with a spicy green chili sauce, making it an irresistible addition to any meal. Here’s how you can recreate this delectable Indonesian favorite at home.

Ingredients:

• 500 grams fresh chicken, cut into small pieces
• 250 grams tofu, cut into small rectangular pieces
• 3 large green chilies, sliced diagonally
• 2 large red chilies, sliced diagonally
• 4 kaffir lime leaves, torn into pieces
• 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon mushroom broth powder (kaldu jamur)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• For the spice paste:
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 3 shallots
  • 5 red bird’s eye chilies
  • 4 red chilies (such as cayenne or Thai)
  • 5 green bird’s eye chilies

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken and Tofu:

   • Heat the cooking oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Fry the chicken pieces until they turn golden brown. Remove and set aside.
   • In the same pan, fry the tofu pieces until they are golden brown. Remove and set aside with the chicken.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • Blend garlic, shallots, red bird’s eye chilies, red chilies, and green bird’s eye chilies into a smooth paste using a food processor or mortar and pestle.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • In a clean pan, heat a little oil over medium heat.
   • Sauté the spice paste until it becomes fragrant and starts to release its oils.
   • Add the torn kaffir lime leaves to the pan and continue to sauté for a minute.

4. Add the Chilies:

   • Incorporate the sliced green and red chilies into the pan.
   • Stir well to mix with the spice paste.

5. Combine and Simmer:

   • Pour in a small amount of water to create a sauce base.
   • Add sweet soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring to combine.
   • Return the fried chicken and tofu to the pan. Mix thoroughly to ensure that the chicken and tofu are well-coated with the sauce.
   • Season with sugar, salt, and mushroom broth powder. Stir well and taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.

6. Simmer and Serve:

   • Allow the mixture to simmer until the sauce reduces and thickens, and the flavors meld together.
   • Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy this delicious Ayam Tahu Masak Cabe Hijau with steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.