Sate Ayam
Chicken satay with peanut sauce.
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 is believed to have originated in Java, Indonesia, and was developed based on the influence of Arab kebab. It quickly spread throughout the Indonesian archipelago and Southeast Asia due to its deliciousness and adaptability.
Sate Ayam is deeply ingrained in Indonesian culture and is a popular dish enjoyed by people of all ages and social backgrounds. It's commonly found at street food stalls, restaurants, and special events.
Celebratory Food
Sate Ayam is often served during celebrations, gatherings, and festive occasions like Eid al-Fitr and weddings. It represents a sense of community and togetherness.
Street Food Staple
It is a very common and affordable street food. Variations in sate preparation and sauces exist across different regions of Indonesia reflecting regional culinary styles.
National Dish contender
While not officially declared, Sate Ayam is widely considered a strong contender for Indonesia's national dish, symbolizing the country's diverse culinary heritage.
Sate Ayam features a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, smoky, and nutty flavors.
The chicken is marinated in a sweet and savory mixture, typically involving soy sauce, spices like turmeric, coriander, and garlic, and sometimes kecap manis (sweet soy sauce). Grilling over charcoal imparts a smoky char. The peanut sauce adds a creamy, rich, and slightly sweet flavor profile, often enhanced with chili, garlic, and lime juice. The combination creates a complex and addictive taste.
Marinating Matters
Marinate the chicken for at least a few hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat. This will result in a more tender and flavorful sate.
Charcoal Grilling is Key
Grilling over charcoal imparts a smoky flavor that is essential to authentic Sate Ayam. If using a gas grill, try adding wood chips or chunks for a similar effect.
Perfect Peanut Sauce
The quality of the peanut sauce is crucial. Use high-quality peanuts and balance the sweet, savory, and spicy elements to your preference. Some recipes call for freshly ground peanuts for the best flavor.
Don't overcook
Watch the sate carefully while grilling. Overcooking will dry out the chicken. The sate is done when it is cooked through and slightly charred.
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