Singapore Ember Chicken

Background and History

Singapore Ember Chicken is a popular dish that hails from the vibrant culinary tapestry of Southeast Asia. Known for its smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor profile, this dish combines the influences of Malay, Chinese, and Peranakan cuisines, which are quintessential to Singapore's food culture.

The origins of Ember Chicken can be traced back to traditional cooking methods that involved grilling chicken over charcoal. This technique imparted a distinct smokiness, reminiscent of 'ayam panggang' or grilled chicken, a staple in many Southeast Asian communities. Over time, this dish has evolved, incorporating elements such as Singapore's famous chili and aromatic spices.

This flavorful dish is often served during gatherings and special occasions, embodying the convivial spirit and diverse cultural heritage of Singapore. Whether enjoyed as street food or in upscale restaurants, Ember Chicken continues to captivate locals and tourists alike with its robust flavors.

Ingredients

• Chicken (whole, cut into pieces)
• Lemongrass (finely chopped)
• Galangal (sliced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Shallots (chopped)
• Turmeric powder
• Chili paste
• Coconut milk
• Palm sugar
• Soy sauce
• Fish sauce
• Lime (juice)
• Oil (for grilling)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Coriander leaves (for garnish)

Preparation

Marinating the Chicken

Start by cleaning and patting dry the chicken pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine lemongrass, galangal, garlic, shallots, turmeric powder, and chili paste. Mix well to form a paste.

Add coconut milk, palm sugar, soy sauce, fish sauce, and lime juice to the paste. Stir until all ingredients are well combined, ensuring the palm sugar has dissolved.

Rub this marinade thoroughly over the chicken pieces, ensuring even coating. Cover the bowl with cling film and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.

Preparing the Grill

Before cooking, prepare your grill. If using a charcoal grill, light it up about 30 minutes beforehand to ensure it's properly heated. For a gas grill, preheat to medium-high heat.

Oil the grates with some oil to prevent the chicken from sticking. You can use a brush or a paper towel dipped in oil.

Cooking Process

Once the grill is ready, place the chicken pieces on the grates. Begin grilling, turning occasionally, to ensure even cooking on all sides. The chicken should develop a nice char yet remain juicy within. This should take approximately 30 minutes. Always check the internal temperature using a thermometer: cooked chicken should reach 165°F/74°C.

If using a stovetop, preheat a grill pan over medium heat and follow the same procedure. Cover the pan with a lid to allow the chicken to cook thoroughly.

Important: Keep a cooking timer on hand to monitor cooking intervals and rest periods to ensure perfectly grilled chicken.

How to Enjoy

Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes post-cooking for the juices to redistribute within. This results in tender and moist bites. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves before serving.

Ember Chicken is best enjoyed with steamed jasmine rice or fragrant coconut rice to complement the spicy and mildly sweet flavors. Pair it with a spicy sambal or a refreshing cucumber salad for contrast. Delight in this dish with family and friends, sharing the cultural flavors of Singapore on your dining table.

Whether it's a weekend feast or a celebration of Black Friday, Singapore Ember Chicken is sure to bring smiles and excite taste buds.