Ingredients for Authentic Balinese Indonesian Satay Chicken
- Chicken Breasts
- Bamboo Skewers
- Tamarind Paste
- Warm Water
- Garlic Cloves
- Shallots
- Coriander Seed
- Cumin Seed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Chilies
- Unsalted Peanuts
- Palm Sugar
- 1/4 cup warm water, plus more as needed
How to Make Authentic Balinese Indonesian Satay Chicken
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup kecap manis (sweet soy sauce), 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 tablespoon grated galangal, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder, and 1-3 red chilies (finely chopped, adjust to taste). Add 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch cubes) and marinate for at least 20 minutes (longer is better!).
- For the peanut sauce: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 cloves garlic (minced) and 1-3 red chilies (finely chopped) and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
- Transfer the garlic-chili mixture to a food processor. Add 1 cup roasted peanuts (or 1 cup smooth peanut butter), 1/4 cup warm water, 2 tablespoons kecap manis, 1 tablespoon lime juice, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon brown sugar.
- Process until smooth but with some texture remaining. Add more warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, to reach your desired consistency.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers (about 4 cubes per skewer).
- Grill the skewers over medium-high heat on a barbecue or griddle pan, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (about 8-10 minutes).
- Serve immediately with the peanut sauce, steamed rice, pita bread, and a refreshing cucumber salad (optional).
Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor
Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
28 g
Sugar
47g
Fat
47g
Carbs
9g