Sweet Soy Chicken Delight (Ayam Kecap Manis)

Ingredients

• 2 Chicken Thighs
• 1 Chicken Breast

For the Spice Paste:

• 5 Shallots
• 3 Garlic Cloves
• 1 Candlenut
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
• 1/2 tsp Coriander
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1 Piece Turmeric (about 1-inch)
• 1 Piece Ginger (about 1-inch)

Additional Ingredients:

• Lime Juice (for marinating)
• Bay Leaves
• Galangal (sliced)
• Lemongrass (smashed)
• Brown Sugar (to taste)
• Granulated Sugar (to taste)
• Sweet Soy Sauce (Kecap Manis) (to taste)
• Seasoning Powder (to taste)
• Water (enough to cover the chicken)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Begin by cutting the chicken into pieces and thoroughly cleaning it. Squeeze lime juice over the chicken and let it sit for 10 minutes. Rinse again with water until the chicken is clean and free of any strong odors.

2. Make the Spice Paste:
   For the spice paste, grind together the shallots, garlic, candlenut, black pepper, coriander, salt, turmeric, and ginger until you achieve a smooth, fragrant paste.

3. Marinate the Chicken:
   Rub the prepared spice paste all over the chicken pieces. Add bay leaves, sliced galangal, and smashed lemongrass to the mixture. Stir well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.

4. Cook the Chicken:
   Place the chicken in a pan and pour in enough water to cover it. Bring the water to a simmer. Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, seasoning powder, and sweet soy sauce to taste. Continue to cook until the sauce reduces and the chicken is tender and well-coated with the sauce.

5. Final Touches:
   Adjust the seasoning to your liking and cook until the sauce thickens slightly. Once done, remove from heat and serve hot.

Enjoy this flavorful Sweet Soy Chicken with your favorite side dishes. Happy cooking! 😊😊