Sweet and Savory Indonesian Fried Chicken (Ayam Goreng Bacem)

Ingredients:

2 whole chickens, each weighing about 700 grams, cut into halves
Spice Paste:
- 4 shallots
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
- 1 piece of turmeric, about 2 inches
- 1 piece of ginger, about 2 inches
- 1 piece of galangal, about 2 inches
Additional Ingredients:
- 5 bay leaves
- 2 lemongrass stalks, smashed
- Salt to taste
- 2 pieces of palm sugar (preferably in round disks)

Steps:

Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by boiling the chicken pieces in water to remove any impurities. Once boiled, drain and rinse the chicken thoroughly to ensure it is clean.
Prepare the Spice Paste:
Blend together the shallots, garlic, coriander seeds, turmeric, ginger, and galangal into a smooth paste.
Cook the Chicken:
In a large pot, bring fresh water to a boil and add the spice paste along with the chicken. Add the bay leaves, smashed lemongrass, and palm sugar. Season with salt to taste. Simmer gently until the chicken is tender and the flavors are absorbed. This process, known as “ungkepan,” infuses the chicken with rich, aromatic flavors.
Storing for Later:
If you wish to prepare the chicken in advance, you can store it in the freezer at this stage. When ready to eat, simply thaw and proceed to the frying step.
Fry the Chicken:
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, fry the chicken pieces until they are submerged halfway in the oil. Turn the chicken only once to ensure even cooking and to maintain its shape. Fry until both sides are golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve the Ayam Goreng Bacem warm for the best flavor. Enjoy this delightful Indonesian dish with your favorite side dishes.

Enjoy your homemade Ayam Goreng Bacem!