Sate Ajam
Chicken satay with peanut sauce, served with fries.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Satay, or sate, is believed to have originated in Java, Indonesia, as an adaptation of Middle Eastern kebab brought by Arab traders. It quickly became a widespread culinary delight across the archipelago, adapting to local tastes and ingredients, resulting in various regional variations.
Sate Ajam holds significant cultural importance in Indonesia, representing a common street food staple and a dish served at celebrations and gatherings. It embodies the diverse flavors and culinary traditions of the archipelago.
Street Food Icon
Sate Ajam is a ubiquitous street food, readily available from warungs (small stalls) and street vendors across Indonesia. It's a quick, affordable, and delicious meal for many.
Celebratory Dish
Sate Ajam is often served during celebrations like Eid al-Fitr (Lebaran), weddings, and other festive occasions, highlighting its importance in Indonesian social gatherings.
Regional Variations
While Sate Ajam is a common name, regional variations exist in terms of marinade, peanut sauce recipe, and accompanying condiments, reflecting the diverse culinary traditions of different Indonesian regions.
Sate Ajam boasts a delicious blend of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors. The marinade infuses the chicken with rich spices, creating a flavorful base complemented by the nutty and slightly sweet peanut sauce.
The savory element comes from the marinated chicken, typically using a blend of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, turmeric, coriander, and sometimes lemongrass. The sweetness is often imparted through kecap manis (sweet soy sauce). The smoky flavor is a result of grilling the marinated chicken over charcoal. The peanut sauce, the defining accompaniment, is a complex mixture of ground peanuts, chilies, garlic, shallots, sugar, salt, and lime juice, offering a nutty, sweet, spicy, and tangy profile.
Marinating Time
Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2-4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat. This results in a more flavorful and tender satay.
Grilling Technique
Grill the satay over medium heat charcoal to achieve a smoky flavor without burning the meat. Basting with marinade during grilling helps keep the chicken moist and adds extra flavor.
Peanut Sauce Consistency
Adjust the peanut sauce consistency with water or coconut milk to your preference. A thicker sauce is richer, while a thinner sauce is lighter.
Kecap Manis
Use good quality kecap manis. This sweet soy sauce provides a unique flavor. Some brands are much better than others.
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