Lemongrass fried chicken, or "ayam goreng lengkuas" in Indonesian, is a delightful dish that combines the aromatic flavors of lemongrass with crispy fried chicken. This recipe offers a tantalizing fusion of fragrant herbs and savory poultry that will surely please your taste buds. Let's dive into the ingredients, preparation, serving suggestions, tips, variations, and nutritional information for this delectable dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 3 stalks of lemongrass, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Cooking oil for frying
Instructions:
Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chopped lemongrass, minced garlic, ground turmeric, ground coriander, salt, sugar, soy sauce, and lime juice. Mix well to form a marinade.
Place the chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse.
Fry the Chicken: Heat cooking oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
Fry the chicken until golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. This typically takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces.
Once the chicken is cooked through and crispy, remove it from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve: Lemongrass fried chicken is best served hot and crispy. Garnish with fresh lime wedges and chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor. Pair it with steamed rice, salad, or your favorite dipping sauce for a complete meal.
Tips:
- Use fresh lemongrass for the best flavor. Bruise the lemongrass stalks before chopping to release their aromatic oils.
- For extra tender chicken, you can add a tablespoon of yogurt or coconut milk to the marinade.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken to achieve a crispy exterior.
Variations:
- Add chili flakes or chopped chili for a spicy kick.
- Substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a slightly different citrus flavor.
- Grill the marinated chicken for a healthier alternative with a smoky taste.
Nutritional Information:
The nutritional content of lemongrass fried chicken can vary based on factors such as portion size and cooking method. However, a typical serving (100g) may contain approximately:
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
Conclusion:
Lemongrass fried chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that brings together the zesty essence of lemongrass with succulent chicken pieces. With its crispy exterior and tender interior, it's sure to be a hit at any dining table. Whether served as a main course or as an appetizer, this dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds craving for more. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey to create this mouthwatering Galangal Fried Chicken!
