Ayam Penyet, the beloved Indonesian dish known for its tantalizing flavors and irresistible crunch, is a culinary delight that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. This traditional recipe involves tender chicken that is marinated, boiled, and then smashed before being deep-fried to golden perfection. Accompanied by a fiery sambal that packs a punch, Ayam Penyet is a dish that promises a sensory explosion with every bite.
Estimated Cost: Preparing this dish at home should cost approximately SGD 15-20, depending on the local market prices. Please note that prices may vary over time.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 lemongrass stalks, bruised
- 4 bay leaves
- 2 cups of water
- Oil for deep frying
Marinade:
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 3 shallots
- 4 candlenuts
- 1 teaspoon of tamarind paste
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of pepper
Sambal:
- 10 red chilies
- 5 bird’s eye chilies (optional for extra heat)
- 2 tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon of shrimp paste
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: Grind the garlic, shallots, candlenuts, tamarind paste, salt, sugar, and pepper into a smooth paste.
- Marinate the Chicken: Coat the chicken pieces evenly with the marinade and let it rest for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
- Boil the Chicken: In a pot, bring water to a boil with lemongrass and bay leaves. Add the marinated chicken and simmer until fully cooked.
- Smash the Chicken: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, gently smash it with a pestle to flatten slightly—this helps the chicken absorb more flavors and become extra crispy when fried.
- Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large wok. Fry the chicken pieces until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Make the Sambal: Blend the chilies, tomatoes, and shrimp paste. Fry the mixture in a little oil, stirring frequently until fragrant. Season with salt.
- Serve: Plate the fried chicken and pour the sambal over it or serve it on the side. Enjoy your Ayam Penyet with steamed rice and a refreshing cucumber salad.
Note: The cost mentioned is an estimate and may change over time due to market fluctuations.
Indulge in the authentic taste of Ayam Penyet and let the flavors of Indonesia elevate your dining experience. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious foodie, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings for a crunchy, flavorful adventure. Bon Appétit!
