Ayam Penyet Pedas (Indonesian Spicy Penyet Chicken)

Ayam Penyet Pedas, also known as Indonesian Spicy Penyet Chicken, is a popular dish in Indonesian cuisine that has gained popularity both locally and internationally. The dish is known for its bold and spicy flavors, making it a favorite among those who enjoy fiery and flavorful meals. Ayam Penyet Pedas is typically made by deep-frying chicken until it is golden and crispy, then smashing it with a mortar and pestle to create a tender and juicy texture.

Ayam Penyet Pedas (Indonesian Spicy Penyet Chicken)
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Prep Time:

30 mins

Cook Time:

30 mins

Additional Time:

1 hr

Total Time:

2 hrs

Servings:

2

Yield:

2 servings

Ingredients

5 cloves garlic, peeled, divided
3 shallots, divided
1 ½ inch piece fresh ginger root, peeled and chopped
1 ½ inch piece galangal, thinly sliced
½ teaspoon ground coriander
2 teaspoons salt, divided
4 chicken thighs
1 ¼ cups water
2 salam leaves (substitute with curry leaves)
3 teaspoons oil, divided, or as needed
½ tomato
11 fresh red chile pepper, finely chopped
4 tablespoons key lime juice, or to taste
1 teaspoon shrimp paste
½ teaspoon white sugar
1 bunch lemon basil (kemangi)

Directions

Step 1

Combine garlic, 1 shallot, ginger, galangal, coriander, and 1 1/2 teaspoon salt in a mortar and pestle; pound into a paste.

Step 2

Combine chicken with the garlic paste, water, and salam leaves in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until chicken is cooked through, about 20 minutes.

Step 3

Meanwhile, heat 2 teaspoons oil in a skillet. Once the chicken is fully boiled, fry the chicken in the skillet until it's golden brown, 5 to 10 minutes.

Step 4

For the sambal (chili sauce) heat 1 teaspoon oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook remaining 2 shallots, tomato, and red chiles for 2 minutes. Move to a mortar and pestle and add lime juice, shrimp paste, 1/2 teaspoon salt, sugar, and lemon basil. Pound everything into a paste.

Step 5

Place the sambal (chile sauce) at the bottom of a serving plate and place the chicken on top of the dish.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

558

Calories

27g

Fat

46g

Carbs

39g

Protein

Complement

The dish is then served with a side of sambal, a spicy chili paste that adds an extra kick to the dish. The sambal is made from a blend of chili peppers, shallots, garlic, and other spices, giving it a rich and complex flavor. Ayam Penyet Pedas is often served with a side of fresh vegetables, such as cucumber, lettuce, and tomatoes, as well as a portion of steamed rice. The combination of crispy chicken, spicy sambal, and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying and well-balanced meal that is beloved by many. Whether enjoyed at a local Indonesian restaurant or made at home, Ayam Penyet Pedas is a dish that never fails to impress with its bold flavors and irresistible heat.