Ayam Siow Peranankan Chicken in Tamarind Sauce
Discover the rich and tangy flavors of Ayam Siow, a classic Peranakan dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered to perfection in a luscious tamarind sauce. Infused with a vibrant blend of shallots, garlic, candlenuts, and turmeric, this recipe highlights the unique culinary traditions of the Peranakan culture. The sauce, sweetened with Gula Melaka (palm sugar) and balanced with a touch of salt and soy sauce, delivers an irresistible harmony of sweet, sour, and savory notes. Perfectly paired with steamed jasmine rice, this one-pot wonder is a delightful showcase of bold, aromatic flavors. Ready in just over an hour, Ayam Siow is an easy yet authentically comforting meal that will transport your taste buds straight to Southeast Asia.
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Ingredients
- 1 kg Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 50 g Tamarind pulp
- 250 ml Water (for tamarind juice)
- 8 large Shallots
- 6 Garlic cloves
- 3 Candlenuts
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 3 tbsp Oil (for cooking)
- 50 g Gula Melaka (palm sugar)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 2 tbsp Light soy sauce
Directions
Step 1
Soak the tamarind pulp in 250 ml of warm water. Allow it to soften, then strain to extract tamarind juice and discard the seeds and fibers. Set the tamarind juice aside.
Step 2
Peel the shallots and garlic and blend them together with candlenuts and turmeric powder to form a smooth paste. Add a little water if needed to facilitate blending.
Step 3
Heat the oil in a large wok or deep pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the blended paste and sauté until fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4
Add the chicken thighs to the pan and sear them for 5 minutes per side, ensuring they are lightly browned.
Step 5
Pour in the tamarind juice and bring to a gentle boil. Lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pan. Allow the chicken to cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to coat the chicken in the sauce.
Step 6
Add the gula Melaka, salt, and light soy sauce. Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. Taste the sauce and adjust as needed for sweetness or tartness.
Step 7
Cook uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and thicken slightly. The chicken should be tender and infused with the sauce.
Step 8
Serve Ayam Siow hot with steamed jasmine rice and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | 353.6 grams (353.6g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 312 |
| Total Fat 0.50g | 1% |
| Saturated Fat 0.20g | 1% |
| Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 29mg | 1% |
| Total Carbohydrate 77.30g | 28% |
| Dietary Fiber 2.70g | 10% |
| Total Sugars 70.00g | |
| Protein 1.50g | 3% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 35mg | 3% |
| Iron 1mg | 7% |
| Potassium 274mg | 6% |
Source of Calories