Ayam Bakar Istimewa with Tomato Sambal
Discover the delectable flavors of Ayam Bakar Istimewa, an Indonesian grilled chicken recipe infused with rich, savory sweetness and paired with a zesty tomato sambal. This dish is a perfect combination of juicy, caramelized chicken and a spicy, tangy condiment that will elevate any meal. Follow this detailed recipe to create a flavorful and impressive dish for your next gathering or family dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Ayam Bakar (Grilled Chicken):
- 1 kg chicken, cut into 8 pieces
- 1 packet Kecap Bango Bacem Ayam (sweet soy sauce for braising chicken)
- Additional sweet soy sauce (Kecap Manis)
- 1 block palm sugar (Gula Merah)
- Seasoning (Penyedap Rasa)
For the Tomato Sambal:
- 10 red bird’s eye chilies (Cabe Rawit Merah)
- 5 red chilies (Cabe Merah)
- 1 tomato
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken:
- Rinse the chicken pieces thoroughly and pat dry. In a large pot, combine the chicken with the Kecap Bango Bacem Ayam, adding a generous amount of sweet soy sauce (Kecap Manis) and a block of palm sugar (Gula Merah). Season with Penyedap Rasa to taste.
- Cook the chicken over medium heat, allowing it to braise until the flavors are well absorbed and the liquid has reduced to a thick, rich glaze. This process will infuse the chicken with a deep, sweet flavor and a slightly caramelized texture.
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Grill the Chicken:
- Once the chicken has been braised, remove it from the pot. Preheat your grill or use a grill pan for a more convenient option. If using a traditional grill, consider using an Inul-style grill for added convenience.
- Brush the chicken with a mixture of the braising sauce and additional sweet soy sauce, ensuring an even coating. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the exterior is crispy and slightly charred, and the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F). Apply more sweet soy sauce during grilling for extra flavor and a glossy finish.
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Prepare the Tomato Sambal:
- Choose to either roast or fry the bird’s eye chilies and red chilies for a smoky depth of flavor. Alternatively, you can use fresh chilies for a raw heat.
- Blend the chilies and tomato until smooth. Adjust the heat level by adding sugar to balance the spiciness. This sambal will provide a fresh, tangy contrast to the sweet and savory grilled chicken.
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Serve:
- Once the chicken is grilled to perfection and the sambal is ready, arrange the chicken on a serving platter. Spoon the tomato sambal into a bowl for easy dipping or drizzling.
- Enjoy your Ayam Bakar Istimewa with a side of steamed rice or as part of a larger Indonesian feast. The combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors will surely delight your taste buds.
This Ayam Bakar Istimewa recipe is not only flavorful but also a testament to the versatility and richness of Indonesian cuisine. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a surefire way to impress your guests with minimal effort.
