Timor Ember Grilled
Timor Ember Grilled is a traditional dish hailing from the beautiful island of Timor. Known for its smoky flavor and rich spices, this dish has been a staple in Timor cuisine for centuries. Historically, grilling over embers was a practical cooking method for the people of Timor, allowing them to cook meats to perfection while providing a distinct flavor profile that is unmatched by other cooking methods.
Ingredients
- Chicken - 1 whole, around 3-4 lbs, butterflied for optimal grilling
- Coconut Milk - 1 cup
- Lemongrass - 2 stalks, finely chopped
- Ginger - 2 inches, grated
- Garlic - 5 cloves, minced
- Turmeric - 2 teaspoons, ground
- Chili Powder - 1 teaspoon
- Lime - 2, juiced
- Palm Sugar - 2 tablespoons, grated
- Salt - 1 tablespoon
- Black Pepper - 1 teaspoon
- Banana Leaves - for wrapping, thoroughly cleaned
Preparation
Marinade
To create a rich marinade, combine coconut milk, chopped lemongrass, grated ginger, minced garlic, turmeric, chili powder, lime juice, grated palm sugar, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly until the palm sugar is fully dissolved.
Place the butterflied chicken into the marinade, ensuring it is fully covered. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours in the refrigerator, preferably overnight, to absorb all the aromatic flavors.
Prepping the Grill
While the chicken is marinating, prepare your grill for the Ember Grilled experience. If using a traditional charcoal grill, build a charcoal bed for direct heat and allow the coals to burn until they become white-hot before spreading them evenly.
For an authentic touch, line the grill with banana leaves. This method not only ensures the chicken retains moisture but also infuses it with an earthy aroma that enhances the grilling process.
Cooking Process
Once the grill is ready and the chicken has marinated sufficiently, place the chicken skin-side down on the prepared grill. Close the lid, if your grill has one, to maintain consistent heat and smoky flavor. Grill the chicken for about 35-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Utilize a cooking timer to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly.
The banana leaves will char slightly, giving the chicken a unique flavor. If the grilling seems too fast, move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill to prevent burning while ensuring it cooks evenly.
Enjoying the Meal
Once grilled to perfection, remove the chicken from the grill and allow it to rest for a few minutes to let the juices redistribute. This step is crucial for maintaining the tenderness of the meat.
To serve, cut the chicken into portions and arrange them on a platter lined with fresh banana leaves for presentation. Pair the Timor Ember Grilled chicken with steamed rice and a fresh salad of your choice. This dish is perfect for gatherings, as its rich flavors create a communal dining experience reminiscent of the traditional Timor feasts.
Enjoy your Timor Ember Grilled chicken while it's hot, and appreciate the blend of spices and the labor of love that goes into creating this authentic Timor meal.