Goreng Kemiri

Introduction

Goreng Kemiri is a traditional Indonesian dish that features the unique flavor of kemiri, also known as candle nut. This dish is a staple in many Indonesian households due to its rich taste and the creamy texture it brings to the food. Kemiri nuts are often used in Indonesian cooking not just for their flavor but also their ability to thicken dishes. This recipe reflects the diverse and vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine, making use of local spices and ingredients to create a dish that is both comforting and delightful. Today, Goreng Kemiri can be found in various parts of Indonesia, each with its local twist, but the essence of the dish remains the same.

Ingredients

• Kemiri (candle nuts) - 100g
• Chicken breast - 500g, cut into small pieces
• Coconut milk - 200ml
• Shallots - 4, finely sliced
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Turmeric powder - 1 tsp
• Ginger - 1 inch, grated
• Lemongrass - 1 stalk, bruised
• Coriander powder - 1 tsp
• Lime leaves - 3
• Red chili - 2, sliced
• Palm sugar - 1 tbsp
• Salt - to taste
• Cooking oil - for frying

Preparation

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by soaking the kemiri in warm water for about 15 minutes. This softens them, making them easier to blend into a paste. While the kemiri is soaking, prepare the chicken breast by cutting it into bite-sized pieces. Set it aside.

Next, finely slice the shallots and mince the garlic. Grate the ginger and bruise the lemongrass stalk by giving it a good bash with the side of a knife to release its flavors. Set aside these aromatics for when you're ready to cook.

Make the Kemiri Paste

After the kemiri has soaked, drain and place it in a blender. Add a small amount of water to help it blend. The goal is to achieve a smooth, creamy paste. You can add more water as needed, but ensure that the paste remains thick. Once blended, set it aside. This will form the base of the goreng kemiri sauce.

Cooking Process

Cooking the Chicken

Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the shallots and garlic. Sauté until the shallots turn golden brown and the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.

Add the cut chicken pieces to the pot, stirring occasionally. Let the chicken brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, add the kemiri paste, stirring well to coat the chicken evenly. Continue cooking until the kemiri paste darkens slightly and smells toasted.

Simmering the Curry

Add in the turmeric powder, ginger, coriander powder, and lemongrass. Stir to combine the spices evenly. Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine. Add the lime leaves, red chili, and palm sugar. Add salt to taste.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Cook for about 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened to a rich consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If the sauce reduces too much, add a splash of water.

Final Touches and Serving

Once the chicken is tender and the sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove the pot from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly before serving. Goreng Kemiri is traditionally served with steamed rice, which complements the rich, nutty flavors of the dish perfectly.

How to Enjoy Goreng Kemiri

To truly enjoy Goreng Kemiri, serve it with a side of sambal, a spicy Indonesian chili paste that adds extra heat and complexity to the dish. You might also consider pairing it with a simple cucumber salad dressed with vinegar and sugar to cut through the richness of the coconut milk.

A nice way to finish your meal is with a sweet dessert like klepon, an Indonesian rice cake filled with palm sugar and coated in grated coconut. The combination of flavors in the Goreng Kemiri, the sambal, and the dessert will transport your taste buds to the vibrant landscapes of Indonesia.

For an authentic experience, enjoy this meal with your friends and family, sharing stories and laughter as you savor the complex layers of flavor in each bite. Consider playing traditional Indonesian music to set the atmosphere, making the entire dining experience feel like a special occasion.