Ayam Rica-Rica: A Spicy Indonesian Delight
Ingredients:
- 500 grams chicken, cut into pieces and cleaned
- 1 bunch of Thai basil leaves
- Spice Paste:
- 25 small red chilies (bird’s eye chilies)
- 5 shallots
- 4 garlic cloves
- Additional Ingredients:
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
- 3 kaffir lime leaves
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 cup water
- Salt, sugar, and chicken stock to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by washing the chicken pieces thoroughly. Squeeze a bit of lime juice over the chicken and sprinkle with a small amount of salt. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for 1 hour. Once marinated, fry the chicken until it’s cooked through but not overly crispy. -
Make the Spice Paste:
Blend the bird’s eye chilies, shallots, and garlic cloves into a smooth paste. -
-
Cook the Spice Paste:
In a pan, heat a little oil and sauté the spice paste until it becomes fragrant. Add the kaffir lime leaves, bay leaf, and bruised lemongrass to the pan. -
Combine Ingredients:
Add the sliced tomato to the pan and cook until the tomato begins to soften. -
Simmer the Chicken:
Add the fried chicken pieces to the pan. Season with salt and sugar, and pour in 1/2 cup of water. Stir well, and let it simmer until the sauce reduces and thickens, adjusting seasoning to taste. -
Add Thai Basil:
Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce has thickened, add the Thai basil leaves. Stir briefly until the basil is wilted. -
Serve:
Serve the Ayam Rica-Rica hot with steamed rice or as a side dish, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this spicy Indonesian classic.
This recipe for Ayam Rica-Rica brings together a blend of aromatic spices and fresh herbs, creating a dish that’s both flavorful and fragrant. Perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals!
