Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 10 shallots, peeled and sliced thinly
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 lemongrass stalks, bruised
- 3 kaffir lime leaves
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 400 ml coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Water
Special equipment needed: None
Step-by-step instructions:
a. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
b. Add the shallots and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and golden brown.
c. Add the chicken pieces and stir until they are coated with the shallot mixture.
d. Add the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, bay leaves, cinnamon stick, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, salt, and sugar. Stir well.
e. Pour in the coconut milk and enough water to cover the chicken.
f. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
g. Serve hot with steamed rice.
20 minutes preparation time, 45 minutes cooking time
5. Temperature: Medium heat for sautéing, low heat for simmering
Serving size: 4-6 people
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 500
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 35g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Chicken can be substituted with beef, lamb, or tofu.
- Shallots can be substituted with onions.
- Kaffir lime leaves can be substituted with lime zest.
- Coriander powder, cumin powder, and turmeric powder can be substituted with curry powder.
Variations:
- Add potatoes, carrots, or green beans for a vegetable opor ayam.
- Add chili peppers for a spicier opor ayam.
- Use boneless chicken for a quicker cooking time.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a mortar and pestle to grind the spices for a more authentic flavor.
- Use freshly squeezed coconut milk for a richer taste.
- Remove the chicken skin for a healthier option.
Storage instructions:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in a pot over low heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a large bowl with steamed rice in individual bowls.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced red chili peppers.
Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro
- Sliced red chili peppers
Pairings:
- Steamed rice
- Fried noodles
- Vegetable stir-fry
Suggested side dishes:
- Fried tofu
- Steamed vegetables
- Pickled vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the opor ayam is too watery, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken the sauce.
- If the opor ayam is too thick, add more water or coconut milk to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Opor ayam is a traditional Indonesian dish that originated from Central Java.
- It is commonly served during special occasions such as weddings and religious ceremonies.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, savory, and slightly sweet with a hint of spice.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot with steamed rice and a side of vegetables.
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Region: Indonesian