Sweet Soy Chicken (Ayam Kecap Manis)
Ingredients:
- 1/2 kg chicken, cut into pieces
- 5 cloves garlic
- 2 shallots
- 2 candlenuts
- 1 sachet of Ladaku seasoning (optional: black peppercorns)
- Sugar, to taste
- Granulated sugar, to taste
- Sweet soy sauce, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Roico seasoning, to taste
- Flavor enhancer (optional)
- 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised
- 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal, bruised
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, bruised
- Water, as needed
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Start by washing the chicken pieces thoroughly. Boil them briefly, then drain and set aside.
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Make the Spice Paste: Blend the garlic, shallots, and candlenuts into a smooth paste.
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Cook the Spice Paste: In a pan, heat a little oil and sauté the spice paste until fragrant. Add black peppercorns if using.
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Seasoning: Add the granulated sugar, salt, Roico seasoning, and flavor enhancer (if using) to the pan. Stir well to combine.
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Add Aromatics: Incorporate the bruised lemongrass, galangal, and ginger into the pan. Pour in enough water to create a sauce.
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Combine and Simmer: Add the pre-boiled chicken pieces to the pan. Pour in the sweet soy sauce to taste and mix thoroughly. Cook until the sauce thickens and reduces slightly, leaving a syrupy consistency.
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Final Adjustments: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, balancing the sweetness, saltiness, and spiciness according to your preference.
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Serve: Serve the Sweet Soy Chicken hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy this delectable dish with steamed rice or as part of a larger meal spread.
