In its basic form, Indonesian-style fried chicken consists of chicken cuts, preferably bone-in pieces such as thighs and drumsticks, which are marinated in spices, then shortly braised before being fried until golden and crispy. The marinade is typically based on traditional spices such as lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and tamarind, but since the dish is enjoyed throughout the country, it comes in numerous regional variations that may include other spices and marinades, or various additions such as grated coconut or rice flour crumbs.
All varieties of ayam goreng can be enjoyed as individual dishes, usually accompanied by rice and fresh vegetables or salads, but ayam goreng is also a common side dish at Indonesian banquet-style meals.
MOST ICONIC Ayam goreng
View moreThis Indonesian dish consists of pieces of fried chicken that are served coated in sambal, a popular chili paste. The word penyet from the name of this dish means to press or push, referring to the preparation method in which the chicken is pressed by a pestle in order to make the meat more tender.
Some versions tenderize the chicken after frying, at the same time coating it with sambal. The dish is served with extra sambal on the side, usually accompanied by fresh vegetables, tempeh, tofu, and rice. Although it hails from East Java, ayam penyet is found throughout the country and is also popular in Singapore.
MOST ICONIC Ayam penyet
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Ayam geprek is a traditional chicken dish originating from Yogyakarta in Java. The dish is similar to American fried chicken, and it's usually made with a combination of chicken, eggs, flour, paprika, salt, pepper, oil, and sambal. The chicken is sliced, seasoned with salt and pepper, dredged in flour, dipped in beaten eggs, and fried in oil until golden and crispy.
Once done, the crispy chicken is placed on top of sambal chili paste, and it's then crushed with a rolling pin or a pestle. The dish is typically served with steamed rice and vegetables on the side. There are also new variations on the dish, with added mozzarella cheese or fried cabbage.
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