Aromatica Jakarta Bite
Introduction
Aromatica Jakarta Bite is a fusion dish that reflects the vibrant culinary traditions of Indonesia, specifically its bustling capital, Jakarta. Known for its rich, aromatic spices and diverse flavors, Indonesian cuisine is celebrated across the globe. This dish combines the classic elements of Jakarta street food with a modern culinary twist, making it a feast both for the eyes and the palate.
Historically, Jakarta has been a melting pot of cultures, influenced by traders from China, India, and Europe. Each group has left its mark on the local food scene, resulting in a unique blend of flavors and cooking techniques. With Aromatica Jakarta Bite, we aim to capture the essence of this cultural and culinary diversity in each bite.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts โ 500g, skinless and boneless
- Turmeric โ 1 tsp, ground
- Coriander โ 1 tsp, ground
- Lemongrass โ 2 stalks, finely chopped
- Galangal โ 1 inch piece, sliced
- Lime Leaves โ 4 leaves
- Coconut Milk โ 400ml
- Chili Peppers โ 2 pieces, sliced
- Garlic โ 4 cloves, minced
- Shallots โ 4 pieces, finely chopped
- Palm Sugar โ 1 tbsp
- Soy Sauce โ 2 tbsp
- Cooking Oil โ 3 tbsp
- Salt โ to taste
- Pepper โ to taste
Preparation
Marinating the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a large bowl, mix turmeric, coriander, and a pinch of salt. Add the chicken pieces and coat them well in the spice mixture. Set aside for 30 minutes to let the flavors penetrate the meat.
Preparing the Spice Paste
In a food processor, combine the lemongrass, galangal, chili peppers, garlic, and shallots. Blend into a smooth paste. This spice paste is the heart of Aromatica Jakarta Bite and will impart a rich aroma to the dish.
Cooking Process
Sautรฉing the Paste
Heat cooking oil in a wok over medium heat. Add the prepared spice paste and stir fry until fragrant. This should take about 5 minutes. Adjust your cooking timer for precision.
Cooking the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken pieces to the wok. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spice mixture. Cook for 10-12 minutes until the chicken is golden brown.
Adding Coconut Milk
Gently pour in the coconut milk and stir continuously. Add the lime leaves and let the mixture simmer for another 15-20 minutes until the chicken becomes tender and the flavors meld together.
Final Seasoning
Add palm sugar and soy sauce for depth and sweetness. Season with additional salt and pepper according to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Aromatica Jakarta Bite is best enjoyed with a side of steamed rice, which helps to balance the richness of the spices. Garnish with fresh coriander and extra slices of chili peppers for those who crave extra heat.
How to Enjoy
Indulge in the savory flavors with a cool beverage like iced tea or a traditional Indonesian drink such as es kelapa muda (young coconut water). The tropical elements complement the spice-infused chicken beautifully, creating a harmonizing culinary experience.