Ayam Kecap: A Sweet and Savory Chicken Delight
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Ayam Kecap, a delightful Indonesian chicken dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and aromatic sauce. Perfect for a comforting family meal, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with delicious flavors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this irresistible dish.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 kg (1 lb) chicken, cut into pieces
- 6 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (kecap inggris) – optional
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
- 4 stalks green onions, cut into 5 cm (2-inch) pieces (you can substitute with leek if preferred)
- 600 ml (2 1/2 cups) water
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil for sautéing
For the Spice Paste:
- 3 cloves garlic
- 5 shallots
- 3 candlenuts
- 3 large red chilies, seeds removed
- 1 cm (1/2 inch) ginger
- 1 medium tomato
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Spice Paste: Begin by blending the garlic, shallots, candlenuts, red chilies, ginger, and tomato into a smooth paste. You can use a food processor or mortar and pestle for this step.
-
Sauté the Spice Paste: Heat the cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant and well-cooked, about 5 minutes. Add ground black pepper to taste during this step.
-
Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the pan, stirring well to coat them with the spice paste. Cook until the chicken changes color and is no longer pink.
-
Simmer the Chicken: Pour in the water, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged. Cover the pan and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add salt and soy sauce (if using) to taste. Stir well, then cover the pan again and let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the liquid has reduced by half, about 20-25 minutes.
-
Add Sweet Soy Sauce: When the liquid has reduced, add the sweet soy sauce. Stir well to combine. Continue cooking until the sauce has thickened and coats the chicken, about 10 minutes.
-
Finish with Green Onions: Just before removing the dish from heat, add the green onions (or leek). Stir until the green onions are wilted and well incorporated.
-
Serve: Transfer the Ayam Kecap to a serving dish. This flavorful chicken is best enjoyed with steamed rice.
Enjoy your homemade Ayam Kecap – a taste of Indonesia right at your table!
