Spicy Indonesian Egg and Chicken Balado

Telor Ayam Balado: A Flavorful Spicy Egg Delight

Embark on a culinary adventure with our Telor Ayam Balado recipe, a vibrant and spicy dish that’s both simple and irresistible. This recipe features tender boiled eggs and crispy fried chicken, all enveloped in a fragrant, flavorful balado sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors that are sure to impress. Here’s how you can recreate this delectable Indonesian classic in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 8 large eggs (boiled, peeled)
• 1 piece of fried chicken (cut into 3 pieces)

For the Ground Spice Mix:

• 30 red curly chilies (optional, for a more intense heat)
• 3 candlenuts
• 4 cloves of garlic
• 4 small shallots

For the Coarse Spices:

• 2 segments of galangal (bruised)
• 1 stalk lemongrass (use the white part, bruised)
• 3 kaffir lime leaves (optional, sliced thinly)
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 large ripe tomatoes (cut into 5 wedges each)

Seasonings:

• 1/2 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 small piece of palm sugar
• 1/2 packet chicken bouillon powder
• Water, as needed
• Cooking oil, as needed

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the boiled eggs until they develop a crispy skin. Remove and set aside. In the same oil, fry the chicken pieces briefly and set aside.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • In a blender or food processor, combine the red chilies (if using), candlenuts, garlic, and shallots. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Spices:

   • Heat 4 to 5 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the ground spice paste and sauté until fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste.

4. Add Coarse Spices:

   • Add the bruised galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves (if using), and bay leaf to the pan. Stir and cook until the spices are aromatic.

5. Incorporate the Tomatoes:

   • Add the tomato wedges to the pan. Cook, pressing the tomatoes down with a spoon to release their juices and help them blend into the spice mixture.

6. Season the Sauce:

   • Add water (about 1/2 cup) to the pan. Season with salt, granulated sugar, palm sugar, and chicken bouillon powder. Stir well and let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.

7. Combine and Simmer:

   • Add the fried eggs and chicken pieces to the pan. Stir gently to coat them evenly with the sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer until the flavors are absorbed and the sauce is reduced to a desired consistency.

8. Serve:

   • Transfer the Telor Ayam Balado to a serving plate. Enjoy hot as a flavorful main dish.

With its rich, spicy flavor and enticing aroma, Telor Ayam Balado is a true testament to Indonesian culinary traditions. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious beginner, this recipe is sure to add a delicious touch to your dining table.