Ayam Penyet

Introduction to Ayam Penyet

Ayam Penyet, originating from East Java in Indonesia, is a delightful dish known for its unique preparation method and vibrant flavors. 'Ayam' translates to chicken, while 'Penyet' means flattened or pressed. This dish gained popularity in the 1990s and has since become a staple in Indonesian cuisine. The process of pressing the chicken after frying helps in absorbing more flavors from the accompanying sambal, a spicy chili paste.

Ingredients

• Chicken (whole or cuts like thighs and drumsticks)
• Turmeric powder
• Coriander powder
• Salt
• Garlic
• Shallots
• Galangal
• Lemongrass
• Lime juice
• Chili peppers
• Tomatoes
• Oil for frying
• Fried tofu (optional)
• Tempeh (optional)
• Cucumbers for garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

Begin by cleaning the chicken thoroughly. In a bowl, mix turmeric and coriander powders with salt. Rub this mixture all over the chicken pieces, ensuring even coating. Add finely minced garlic and shallots, along with crushed galangal and bruised lemongrass stalks for extra aroma. Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour. For best results, consider marinating overnight in a refrigerator.

Step 2: Preparing the Sambal

Next, create the sambal by blending chili peppers, garlic, shallots, diced tomatoes, and salt. Adjust the number of chili peppers according to your spice tolerance. Heat oil in a pan and sauté the mixture until fragrant. Once cooked, add a squeeze of lime juice to enhance the flavor.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Frying the Chicken

Heat enough oil in a wok or deep frying pan until it reaches medium-high temperature. Fry the marinated chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Ensure you maintain the medium heat to avoid burning the spices. The chicken should be crispy on the outside and tender inside.

Step 4: Pressing the Chicken

Once fried, remove the chicken and place it on a clean surface. Using a pestle or the back of a knife, gently press the chicken to flatten it slightly. This technique allows the sambal to adhere better to the meat.

Step 5: Serving

Serve the pressed chicken on a plate, topped generously with sambal. Accompany it with fried tofu and tempeh if desired. Garnish with sliced cucumbers for a refreshing contrast.

Enjoying Ayam Penyet

Ayam Penyet is best enjoyed with a side of steamed rice and accompanied by fresh vegetables or a simple salad. The rich, spicy, and tangy flavors of the sambal combined with the aromatic chicken create an unforgettable dining experience. Adjust your spice level by controlling the amount of sambal served. Don't forget to set a cooking timer throughout the preparation process to ensure perfect results.

Conclusion

With its rich history and delectable taste, Ayam Penyet is a culinary delight that captures the essence of Indonesian cooking. Whether you're a spice lover or a culinary enthusiast, this dish is sure to please your palate and leave you craving for more.