Ayam Balado (Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry)
Ayam Balado (Spicy Chicken Stir-Fry)
Embark on a culinary journey to Indonesia with Ayam Balado, a fiery and flavorful chicken dish that has captivated palates for generations. Rooted in Minangkabau cuisine from West Sumatra, Balado dishes are characterized by their use of a vibrant chili paste, creating a symphony of heat, tang, and savory depth. This Ayam Balado recipe features tender, succulent chicken pieces enveloped in a rich, aromatic sambal balado. The spice blend, typically prepared with a medley of fresh red chilies, shallots, garlic, and fragrant lemongrass, is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It's a testament to the Indonesian love for bold, complex tastes, often enjoyed as a celebrated centerpiece during family gatherings and special occasions. Perfect for those who crave an exhilarating kick, Ayam Balado is a true representation of Indonesian cuisine's prowess in balancing intense flavors. Discover the authentic taste of Indonesia and bring this beloved dish to your table; it's an unforgettable experience for any spice enthusiast and a must-try for lovers of Indonesian food.
- Preparation time
- 20 min
- Cooking time
- 25 min
- Total time
- 45 min
- Servings
- 4
Instructions
Prepare the Sambal Balado Paste
- 1In a blender or food processor, combine the red chilies, shallots, garlic, and lemongrass.
- 2Blend until a smooth paste forms. Add a little water if needed to help the blending process.
Cook the Ayam Balado
- 1Heat the cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- 2Add the prepared sambal balado paste and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and the oil begins to separate.
- 3Add the chicken pieces to the wok. Stir well to coat the chicken with the sambal.
- 4Pour in the water, add salt and sugar (if using). Stir to combine.
- 5Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through, and the sauce has thickened.
- 6Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Nutrition Information
- Calories
- 351 kcal
- Protein
- 30 g
- Fat
- 22 g
- Carbs
- 9 g
| Nutrient | Per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 351 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Carbs | 9 g |
Tips
- For less heat, remove all seeds from the red chilies before blending them into the paste.
- Sautéing the sambal balado paste until fragrant and the oil separates is crucial for deep flavor development.
- Serve hot with steamed rice to balance the spiciness and soak up the delicious sauce.
