Gudeg Mandalasari

Gudeg Mandalasari is a famous variation of gudeg, a traditional dish from Yogyakarta, Indonesia. This dish is a unique blend of flavors characterized by its sweet and savory taste. It is widely celebrated for its rich history and cultural significance, making it a quintessential dish in Javanese cuisine.

History of Gudeg

The history of gudeg dates back to the Mataram Kingdom in the 16th century, where it was first created in the region now known as Yogyakarta. Initially, gudeg was made as a vegetarian dish, primarily using young jackfruit as the main ingredient. Over time, the dish evolved, incorporating different ingredients and spices to enhance its flavors, becoming a staple in Javanese culinary traditions.

Ingredients

• Young jackfruit - 1kg, cut into pieces
• Coconut milk - 500ml
• Chicken - 500g
• Palm sugar - 200g
• Garlic - 5 cloves, minced
• Shallots - 10, finely chopped
• Bay leaves - 3
• Lemongrass - 2 stalks, bruised
• Galangal - 2 cm piece, bruised
• Salt - to taste
• Water - 1 liter

Preparation

Before starting the cooking process, it is essential to prepare the ingredients. Start by peeling and cutting the young jackfruit into small, manageable pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine the jackfruit with some water and let it soak for about 15 minutes to reduce its bitterness. Meanwhile, prepare the chicken by cleaning and cutting it into serving pieces.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Cook the Jackfruit

In a large pot, add the soaked jackfruit along with the remaining water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for approximately 30 minutes until the jackfruit becomes tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Spice Paste

In a blender, mix the garlic and shallots, blending them into a smooth paste. In a separate pan, heat a little oil and sauté the garlic-shallot paste until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook until they are lightly browned. Add the previously cooked jackfruit into the pan and mix well.

Step 4: Simmer with Coconut Milk

Add the coconut milk, palm sugar, bay leaves, lemongrass, and galangal to the mixture. Season with salt and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, occasionally stirring until the flavors meld together and the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Step 5: Final Touches

Adjust seasoning if necessary and remove the bay leaves, lemongrass, and galangal before serving.

How to Enjoy Gudeg Mandalasari

Gudeg Mandalasari is traditionally served with warm steamed rice, providing a perfect balance to its sweet and savory flavors. You can also enjoy it with accompaniments such as fried tempeh, crispy tofu, or boiled eggs to add variety to your meal. For a truly authentic experience, enjoy Gudeg Mandalasari with a side of sambal, a spicy chili paste that enhances its flavors.