Sate ayam
Chicken Satay with Fries, salad and 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 originated in Java, Indonesia, and is believed to have been developed based on the influence of Middle Eastern kebabs brought by Arab traders. It quickly became popular throughout the Indonesian archipelago and beyond, adapting to local tastes and ingredients.
Sate Ayam is deeply ingrained in Indonesian culture, enjoyed as street food, in restaurants, and during celebrations.
Street Food Staple
Sate Ayam is a ubiquitous street food found throughout Indonesia, sold by vendors pushing carts or grilling over portable charcoal stoves.
Celebratory Dish
It's often served during special occasions, such as weddings, family gatherings, and religious festivals.
Regional Variations
Different regions of Indonesia have their own unique variations of Sate Ayam, with different marinades, sauces, and grilling techniques.
National Dish Candidate
While not officially designated, Sate is often considered one of Indonesia's national dishes, representing the country's diverse culinary heritage.
Sate Ayam offers a complex flavor profile, balancing savory, sweet, smoky, and nutty elements.
The chicken is typically marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and other spices, giving it a rich umami flavor. Grilling over charcoal imparts a smoky aroma. The peanut sauce, a cornerstone of the dish, is a blend of roasted peanuts, chili peppers, garlic, kecap manis (sweet soy sauce), and sometimes lime juice, providing a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy counterpoint. The addition of fries offers a salty, crispy texture, while the salad provides freshness and acidity to balance the richness.
Marinating Time
Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
Peanut Sauce Consistency
Adjust the consistency of the peanut sauce by adding water or broth to reach your desired thickness.
Charcoal Grilling
Grilling over charcoal imparts a superior smoky flavor compared to other cooking methods.
Kecap Manis Quality
Use a high-quality Kecap Manis (sweet soy sauce) for the best flavor in both the marinade and the peanut sauce.
Fries Preparation
For crispy fries, consider double frying: first at a lower temperature to cook them through, then at a higher temperature to brown them.
Salad Freshness
Ensure the salad is fresh and crisp. A simple vinaigrette or lime dressing complements the rich flavors of the satay and peanut sauce.
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