Ayam betutu - Balinese spiced chicken

ayam_betutu_-_balinese_spiced_chicken

Ayam betutu, also known as Balinese spiced chicken, is a traditional Indonesian dish that originates from the beautiful island of Bali. This delectable dish is cooked using a special blend of spices and herbs, which gives it a unique and unforgettable flavor that is loved by everyone who has had the pleasure of trying it.

The recipe for Ayam betutu is relatively simple, but it requires a bit of preparation time and some careful attention to detail to ensure that the chicken is cooked to perfection. The key to making an excellent Ayam betutu lies in selecting the right spices and herbs, as well as marinating the chicken for several hours to allow the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat.

The recipe for Ayam betutu usually calls for a whole chicken, which is marinated in a blend of spices and herbs for several hours before being slow-cooked in the oven or over a charcoal fire. The exact ingredients used in the spice blend can vary slightly from one recipe to another, but they generally include a combination of sweet and savory flavors.

Some of the key spices and herbs used in Ayam betutu include garlic, galangal, turmeric, ginger, lime leaves, and lemongrass. These ingredients are ground together to make a flavorful paste, which is rubbed all over the chicken to marinate it.

Once the chicken has been marinated for several hours, it is cooked either in the oven or on a charcoal grill. The cooking process can take anywhere from 1-3 hours, depending on the size of the chicken and the cooking method used. It is essential to baste the chicken with the marinade several times during cooking to ensure that it stays moist and flavorful.

Ayam betutu is typically served with steamed rice and a side of vegetables or salad. Some variations of the dish also include boiled eggs, which are cooked in the same spice blend as the chicken to impart an additional layer of flavor.

One of the most iconic aspects of Ayam betutu is the way it is traditionally served. The chicken is typically wrapped in banana leaves and then baked or steamed to further infuse the flavors. The banana leaves not only add a delicate flavor to the dish, but they also help to keep the chicken moist and tender throughout the cooking process.

Overall, Ayam betutu is a true Indonesian delicacy that is beloved by locals and visitors alike. Its unique blend of spices and herbs creates a flavor explosion that is hard to forget, and its presentation in banana leaves only adds to its charm. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a new dish to try, Ayam betutu is a must-try dish that is sure to impress.

Here is a recipe for Indonesian Ayam betutu - Balinese spiced chicken:

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole chicken, cleaned
  • 2 lemongrass stalks, bruised
  • 5 kaffir lime leaves
  • 3 salam leaves
  • 4 tablespoons oil

For the spice paste:

  • 10 shallots, peeled
  • 10 garlic cloves, peeled
  • 5 red chilies, seeded
  • 5 bird’s eye chilies, seeded
  • 5 candlenuts
  • 2 teaspoons dried shrimp paste
  • 2 teaspoons turmeric powder
  • 2 teaspoons ginger powder
  • 2 teaspoons galangal powder
  • 2 teaspoons coriander powder
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper

For the banana leaf wrapping:

  • 1 banana leaf, cut to fit the chicken
  • Banana strings or toothpicks to tie the wrapping

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

  2. Pulse all the spice paste ingredients in a food processor until smooth.

  3. Heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the spice paste and stir-fry until fragrant and slightly browned, about 5 minutes.

  4. Rub the chicken with the spice paste mixture, making sure to coat it inside and out. Stuff the chicken with the lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and salam leaves.

  5. Wrap the chicken tightly in the banana leaf, securing with the banana strings or toothpicks.

  6. Place the wrapped chicken in a roasting pan and bake for 2-2.5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.

  7. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before unwrapping and carving.

  8. Serve hot with steamed rice and some sambal on the side.

Enjoy your delicious Indonesian Ayam betutu - Balinese spiced chicken!