Spicy Indonesian Rica-Rica Chicken

Rica-Rica Ayam: A Flavorful Indonesian Chicken Delight

Indulge in the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Rica-Rica Ayam, a beloved Indonesian dish known for its spicy and savory profile. This recipe brings together succulent chicken and a blend of aromatic spices to create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Perfect for those who love bold flavors and a touch of heat, Rica-Rica Ayam is a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to suit your taste. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or looking to impress guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. Follow this step-by-step guide to bring this delicious Indonesian classic to your table.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 kg (250 grams) chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 kaffir lime leaves
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
• 1 segment galangal (about 1 inch), sliced
• Salt, to taste
• Optional: seasoning powder, to taste
• Optional: palm sugar, to taste
• Optional: sweet soy sauce (kecap manis), to taste

For the Spice Paste:

• 2 cloves garlic
• 4 shallots
• 2 red chilies
• 2 bird’s eye chilies
• 1 segment turmeric (about 1 inch), peeled
• 1 segment ginger (about 1 inch), peeled
• 2 candlenuts (kemiri), toasted
• Black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Begin by boiling the chicken pieces in water until they are fully cooked and tender. Once cooked, set the chicken aside.

2. Make the Spice Paste:

   • In a blender or food processor, combine the garlic, shallots, red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, turmeric, ginger, and toasted candlenuts. Blend until you have a smooth paste.

3. Cook the Spice Paste:

   • Heat a bit of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste to the pan and sauté until fragrant and the oil begins to separate from the paste.

4. Add Aromatics:

   • Add the kaffir lime leaves, bay leaf, lemongrass, and sliced galangal to the pan. Continue to cook for a few minutes, allowing the spices and aromatics to release their flavors.

5. Combine Chicken with Spices:

   • Add the boiled chicken pieces to the pan. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spice mixture.

6. Simmer and Adjust Seasoning:

   • Pour in enough water to cover the chicken. Add salt to taste. If using, add a bit of seasoning powder, palm sugar, and sweet soy sauce. Stir and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.

7. Taste and Adjust:

   • Check the seasoning and adjust to your preference. If needed, add more salt, palm sugar, or sweet soy sauce to achieve the desired balance of flavors.

8. Serve:

   • Once the sauce has reduced and thickened, and the chicken is well-coated with the flavorful sauce, remove from heat. Serve hot with steamed rice and your favorite vegetables.

Enjoy the rich and vibrant flavors of Rica-Rica Ayam as it adds a touch of Indonesian flair to your dining experience. This dish is perfect for any occasion and is sure to become a family favorite.