| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 310 | 23g | 10g | 12g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 2g | 20g | 0.8g |
A Fusion of Flavors and Homage to NYC’s Roots
There are few things I enjoy more than discovering a recipe that captures the essence of a culture while providing a healthy, delectable option for my dinner table. Chicken Satay with Lengkuas Sauce really does just that. The first time I tried this recipe, it transported me back to my first experience of Southeast Asian street food in New York City’s Chinatown. The combination of succulent, marinated chicken and the rich, aromatic lengkuas sauce truly embodies the melting pot of flavors I hold dear.
I further fell in love with this recipe because it seamlessly balances indulgence with nutrition. Chicken breast, the main protein in this dish, is lean and loaded with essential nutrients like vitamin B6 and niacin. The coconut milk not only adds a creamy texture but also provides beneficial fats and antioxidants. And who can forget the galangal—also known as lengkuas? This spice has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and is packed with antioxidants. So while you’re indulging in this mouthwatering meal, you’re also doing wonders for your health.
A Harmonious Blend of Spices
What truly elevates Chicken Satay with Lengkuas Sauce is its harmonious blend of spices and flavors. The marinade for the chicken—which includes curry powder, turmeric, and ground coriander—creates a tantalizing depth of flavor while the coconut milk ensures the meat remains tender and juicy. As someone who loves experimenting with textures and tastes, the touch of brown sugar in the marinade adds just the right hint of sweetness against the backdrop of a mildly spicy kick.
The lengkuas sauce is where the magic really happens. With ingredients like galangal, tamarind paste, garlic, and roasted peanuts coming together, each bite offers a burst of complex flavors. This sauce is like a creamy symphony; the tamarind paste brings in some tanginess while the roasted peanuts add a delightful crunch. If you enjoy dishes like Thai Peanut Sauce or Indonesian Satay, you will find this sauce equally enchanting.
Complementary Dishes
To make this meal even more extraordinary, serve it alongside a bowl of steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice to absorb the delicious sauce. A side of fresh cucumber salad, with its crisp and refreshing qualities, will also add a lovely contrast to the rich, savory skewers. You might also consider pairing it with another Southeast Asian favorite like a light and tangy Thai Papaya Salad.
For anyone keen on exploring more about the culinary art of Southeast Asian cuisine, you can delve into regional recipes or engage with local cooking classes [here](https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/volunteer-charity/best-online-cooking-classes).
Cooking recipes like this not only lets you indulge in delicious, finger-licking food but also embarks you on a culinary journey across the world, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. I am delighted to share my enthusiasm for Chicken Satay with Lengkuas Sauce with you and hope it brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. Bon appétit!
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 2 tbsp curry powder
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- Skewers for grilling
- For Lengkuas Sauce:
- 2 inches galangal (lengkuas), peeled and sliced
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 shallot
- 2 tbsp tamarind paste
- 1/4 cup peanuts, roasted
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp chili paste (optional)
Method
Step One: Marinate the Chicken
1. In a large bowl, combine the coconut milk, curry powder, soy sauce, brown sugar, turmeric powder, ground coriander, black pepper, and vegetable oil.
2. Add the chicken breast slices to the marinade, ensuring that each strip is well-coated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step Two: Prepare the Lengkuas Sauce
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the galangal, garlic, shallot, tamarind paste, roasted peanuts, coconut milk, soy sauce, brown sugar, salt, and optional chili paste.
2. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
3. Pour the sauce into a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step Three: Assemble and Grill the Satay
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread the marinated chicken strips onto the skewers.
3. Grill the chicken skewers for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char.
Step Four: Serve
1. Arrange the grilled chicken satay on a serving platter.
2. Serve with the Lengkuas sauce on the side for dipping.
3. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Satay with Lengkuas Sauce!
