Mastering the Art of Cooking Ayam Geprek Bensu Medan at Home

Mastering the Art of Cooking Ayam Geprek Bensu Medan at Home

Mastering Ayam Geprek Bensu Medan at Home

What is Ayam Geprek?

Ayam Geprek is a popular Indonesian dish, particularly famous in Medan. This dish features fried chicken that is smashed (‘geprek’) and served with a spicy sambal sauce, providing a delightful explosion of flavors. Ayam Geprek Bensu is a variant created by celebrity chef and entrepreneur, Bensu, that has gained a cult-like following. To master Ayam Geprek Bensu at home, it’s essential to understand the key components and techniques involved in creating this delectable dish.

Ingredients Required

To prepare Ayam Geprek Bensu, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 1 kg of chicken (preferably thigh for juiciness)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup rice flour
  • 2 eggs
  • Oil for frying

For the Spicy Sambal:

  • 10-15 red chilies (adjust based on heat preference)
  • 5-6 bird’s eye chilies (optional for extra heat)
  • 4 cloves of garlic
  • 2 tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons fried shallots
  • Lime juice (to taste)
  • Salt to taste
  • Sugar to balance the flavors

For Serving:

  • Steamed white rice
  • Fresh cucumber slices
  • Fried tofu or tempeh (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

  1. Marinating the Chicken: Begin by cleaning the chicken pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel. In a mixing bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and turmeric. Rub this spice mix thoroughly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate overnight in the refrigerator.

  2. Breading the Chicken: Prepare three separate bowls: one with all-purpose flour, another with rice flour, and the last with beaten eggs. First, dip each marinated chicken piece in the all-purpose flour, shaking off excess. Then, coat it in the egg before finally rolling it in the rice flour for an extra crunch.

  3. Frying the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of the batter into the oil; if it sizzles, the oil is hot enough. Carefully place the breaded chicken pieces into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 8-10 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).

  4. Draining the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken and let it drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil, maintaining its crispy texture.

Making the Spicy Sambal

  1. Blending the Ingredients: While the chicken is frying, prepare the sambal. In a blender or food processor, combine red chilies, bird’s eye chilies, garlic, and tomatoes. Blend until a smooth paste forms. Adjust the consistency with a little water if needed.

  2. Cooking the Sambal: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Pour in the blended sambal mixture, sautéing for 5-10 minutes until fragrant. Add fried shallots, lime juice, salt, and sugar to taste. You want the sambal to be a balanced mix of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet.

Assembling Ayam Geprek Bensu

  1. Smashing the Chicken: Once the chicken has cooled slightly, it’s time to ‘geprek’ it. Using a flat spatula or a mortar and pestle, gently smash each fried chicken piece to create a flattened shape while ensuring the skin remains intact.

  2. Layering the Sambal: Generously top each smashed chicken piece with the spicy sambal. Be mindful to adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.

  3. Serving: Ayam Geprek Bensu is typically served with warm steamed rice. Add slices of fresh cucumber on the side for a crunchy contrast. Optionally, include crispy fried tofu or tempeh to enhance the meal’s texture and flavor.

Pro Tips for Perfection

  • Choosing Chicken: Opt for bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture. If you prefer a healthier option, you may use chicken breasts, but be mindful not to overcook, as they can dry out quickly.

  • Frying Techniques: Maintain the oil temperature while frying. If the oil is too hot, the coating may burn before the chicken is cooked through. Monitor closely and adjust heat as necessary.

  • Customizing Sambal: Feel free to experiment with different chili varieties, or add ingredients like lemongrass or ginger for a unique twist.

  • Meal Prep: You can prepare the chicken and sambal ahead of time. Reheat the sambal gently and fry the chicken fresh to maintain its crispy allure.

  • Serving Suggestions: For an authentic experience, serve with a side of Indonesian pickles (acar) to add tanginess and freshness to the meal.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Ayam Geprek in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, crisp it up again in the oven rather than the microwave, ensuring the chicken retains its crunch.

Enjoying Ayam Geprek

Making Ayam Geprek Bensu at home is a rewarding experience, bringing a taste of Medan to your kitchen. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can create a dish that mirrors the flavors of the famous restaurant. Embrace the process, and soon you’ll be sharing this beloved Indonesian treasure with family and friends, satisfying cravings for spicy and crunchy goodness.

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