Sate Ayam Betawi
Sate Ayam Betawi is a mouth-watering Indonesian chicken skewer dish that hails from the vibrant capital city, Jakarta. This beloved street food captures the essence of Indonesian culinary culture, combining flavorful grilled chicken with a rich, savory peanut sauce. The Betawi people, native to Jakarta, have passed down this recipe through generations, adapting influences and ingredients from diverse cultures that have passed through this bustling port city.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breast - 500 grams
- Soy Sauce - 4 tablespoons
- Lime Juice - 2 tablespoons
- Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
- Peanut Butter - 1/2 cup
- Coconut Milk - 1 cup
- Brown Sugar - 2 tablespoons
- Kecap Manis - 2 tablespoons
- Red Chili Sauce - 1 tablespoon
- Turmeric Powder - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - 1 teaspoon
- Skewers - 20
Preparation
Start by cutting the chicken breast into small, bite-sized cubes. In a large bowl, mix the soy sauce, lime juice, and minced garlic. Add the chicken cubes to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Grilling the Sate
Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers. Heat a grill to medium-high heat and place the skewers on the grill. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken is cooked through and has a slightly charred appearance. You can use a cooking timer to ensure perfect timing. Baste the chicken occasionally with the remaining marinade for an extra burst of flavor.
Making the Peanut Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the peanut butter, coconut milk, brown sugar, kecap manis, red chili sauce, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Adjust seasonings to taste and remove from heat.
Serving Suggestions
Arrange the grilled chicken skewers on a platter and generously drizzle with the peanut sauce. Sate Ayam Betawi is traditionally enjoyed with lontong (rice cakes) or steamed rice, making it a hearty meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sliced red chilies for a vibrant finish. This dish is perfect for both casual gatherings and festive occasions, bringing a taste of Jakarta's vibrant street life to your table.