Ayam Taliwang

6 chicken pieces (mix of thighs and drumsticks)
2-3 tablespoons coconut oil
3 kaffir lime leaves, stems removed
100-200ml coconut milk
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Lime wedges, to serve

The Spice Paste

5 red chillies
2-3 bird’s eye chillies
4 shallots
3 garlic cloves
3 candlenuts
2-3 cherry tomatoes
1 teaspoon galangal powder (or fresh galangal)
1 tablespoon palm sugar (or brown sugar)
1 teaspoon shrimp paste (belacan or terasi)

PREPARATION

1. Prepare the spice paste by blending red chillies, bird’s eye chillies, shallots, garlic, candlenuts and tomatoes into a smooth paste.
2. Stir in galangal powder, palm sugar and shrimp paste until fully combined.
3. Heat coconut oil in a frying pan over medium heat and add the spice paste.

COOKING

1. Fry the paste for about 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and the raw ingredients are cooked out.
2. Add the kaffir lime leaves and pour in the coconut milk, stirring to form a rich sauce.
3. Season with salt and black pepper and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the chicken pieces and coat them thoroughly in the sauce.
5. Simmer for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is fully cooked and infused with the spice paste.
6. Heat a griddle pan or barbecue until very hot.
7. Place the cooked chicken skin side down and grill briefly to develop a charred, smoky crust.
8. Turn once and char the other side lightly, being careful not to overcook the chicken.
9. Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and serve with lime wedges and extra sauce on the side.

School of Wok Tips

• Cooking the spice paste thoroughly removes raw flavours and intensifies the aroma.
• Candlenuts help thicken the paste and add richness to the sauce.
• Grilling at the end gives the chicken its signature smoky finish.
• Serve with steamed rice to balance the strong spicy flavours.

FAQs

What is Ayam Taliwang?
Ayam Taliwang is a traditional Indonesian grilled chicken dish from Lombok known for its spicy chilli based marinade.

Can I cook the chicken entirely on the barbecue?
Yes. You can grill the chicken fully on the barbecue, brushing it with the spice sauce as it cooks.

What can I substitute for candlenuts?
Macadamia nuts or cashews are commonly used substitutes if candlenuts are unavailable.