Ayam Sioh (Indonesian Tamarind Chicken)
Ingredients:
- 1 kg chicken, cut into pieces as desired
- 50 grams tamarind, dissolved in 125 ml water
- 10 bird’s eye chilies
- 50 grams palm sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Juice of 1 lime
Spice Paste:
- 2 teaspoons toasted coriander seeds
- 4 cloves garlic
- 5 shallots
- 1/2 teaspoon shrimp paste (terasi)
- 2 tablespoons sliced lemongrass
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by rubbing the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of lime juice and 1 teaspoon of salt. Allow the chicken to marinate for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors and tenderize the meat.
Step 2: Sauté the Spice Paste
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the spice paste. Using a mortar and pestle or a blender, grind the toasted coriander seeds, garlic, shallots, shrimp paste, and lemongrass into a smooth paste. Heat a little oil in a pan and sauté the spice paste until it is cooked through and fragrant, releasing its rich aroma.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pan with the sautéed spice paste. Stir the chicken until it becomes firm and begins to brown. Pour in the tamarind water and add the palm sugar. Stir to combine, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with the mixture.
Step 4: Add Water and Chilies
Next, add 350 ml of water and the bird’s eye chilies to the pan. Allow the mixture to simmer. If more liquid is needed, add hot water in 100 ml increments to maintain the desired consistency.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Continue to cook the chicken over low heat until it is tender and the sauce has thickened. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and savory dish.
Step 6: Serve
Once the chicken is tender and the sauce has reached a thick consistency, your Ayam Sioh is ready to be served. Enjoy this delightful dish with steamed rice for a satisfying meal.
Happy cooking! 💪
This traditional Indonesian recipe brings together the tangy taste of tamarind, the heat of bird’s eye chilies, and the aromatic spices to create a dish that’s both unique and flavorful. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, Ayam Sioh is sure to impress your taste buds.