Quick Weeknights · Indonesian
Ayam Goreng Lengkuas
Crispy fried chicken infused with grated galangal and turmeric, providing an earthy and bold finish.
Why This Works
The coconut water braising tenderizes the meat while the galangal adds a unique citrus-pine profile that caramelizes into a crunchy topping.
The Upgrade
Add 2 makrut lime leaves during the braising phase for an extra layer of floral zest.
Chef's Secret
Michelin TechniqueNever discard the galangal solids; frying them creates the 'serundeng' element, which is the most flavorful part of the dish.
Ingredients
Total time including resting: 45 min
Directions
In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine chicken, galangal, garlic, turmeric, shallots, coriander, lemongrass, and coconut water.
Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cover, cooking until chicken is tender.
20 minRemove chicken from liquid and drain well; pat completely dry to ensure maximum crispness during frying.
5 minStrain the poaching liquid, reserving all the solids (the galangal mix).
Heat oil in a wok to 350°F until shimmering.
Fry chicken pieces in batches until deep golden brown and the skin is shatteringly crisp.
8 minIn the same hot oil, fry the reserved galangal solids until crispy and dark brown, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
2 minDrain the fried galangal on paper towels and sprinkle over the chicken before serving.
Wine Pairing
Gewurztraminer
White Wine
The BottleTrimbach Gewurztraminer
The galangal and turmeric are bold and perfumed, matching the floral and ginger aromatics of Gewurztraminer. The wine's slight residual sugar tames the heat of the fried spices.
Nutrition per Serving
480
calories
32g
protein
8g
carbs
36g
fat
Make It a Complete Meal
Sides the kitchen recommends alongside this dish.
Side Dish
Cucumber Raita
Mix grated cucumber into yogurt to provide a cooling element against the bold, earthy galangal and turmeric.
Ingredients
Directions
Place grated cucumber in a clean kitchen towel and wring thoroughly to remove all excess moisture.
Whisk the Greek yogurt in a chilled bowl until completely smooth.
Fold the dried cucumber, mint, and cumin into the yogurt base.
Season with salt and lime juice, adjusting acidity to balance the richness of the Ayam Goreng.
Transfer to a service vessel and garnish with a pinch of cumin.
Serve immediately to maintain temperature contrast.
Side Dish
Steamed Jasmine Rice
Simple white rice serves as the essential neutral backdrop for the savory, crispy chicken.
Ingredients
Directions
Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the starch runs clear, then drain thoroughly.
Combine the rinsed rice, measured water, salt, and oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan.
Bring the water to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, uncovered.
Reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and steam for 15 minutes.
Remove the pan from the heat and allow it to rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
Fluff the rice gently with a fork and serve immediately.
Member Reviews
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Made this tonight and it disappeared in minutes. Adding it to the rotation.