The Art of Making Geprek Bensu: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Art of Making Geprek Bensu: A Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding Geprek Bensu

Geprek Bensu, a popular street food originating from Indonesia, is famous for its delectable combination of fried chicken and sambal. The term “geprek” means “smashed,” which refers to how the chicken is tenderized after frying. With the crispy exterior and spicy sambal, Geprek Bensu has gained popularity, captivating food lovers both locally and internationally. This guide will walk you through the intricate process of making Geprek Bensu, including marinating the chicken, preparing the sambal, and serving.

Ingredients Needed

For the Chicken:

• 1 kg chicken (preferably thigh or breast fillets)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup rice flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Water (for the batter)
• Oil (for frying)

For the Marinade:

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt to taste

For the Sambal:

• 10-12 bird’s eye chilies (adjust according to heat preference)
• 5 cloves garlic
• 1 tomato
• 2 tablespoons fried shallots (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon lime juice

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

1. Preparing the Marinade:
   In a mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, turmeric powder, coriander powder, soy sauce, and salt. Mix well until a smooth paste forms.

2. Marinating:
   Place the chicken in the bowl and coat it generously with the marinade. Make sure each piece is evenly covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate.

Step 2: Preparing the Batter

1. Mixing Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour, rice flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add water until you achieve a smooth batter. The consistency should be thick enough to adhere to the chicken.

Step 3: Preparing the Sambal

1. Blending Ingredients:
   In a blender or food processor, add bird’s eye chilies, garlic, and the tomato. Blend until you reach a smooth consistency. If you prefer a chunky sambal, pulse blend until desired texture.

2. Cooking Sambal:
   Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat. Pour the blended sambal into the hot pan. Stir and cook for approximately 5-10 minutes. Add fried shallots for an aromatic flavor, season with salt, and finish with a drizzle of lime juice.

Step 4: Frying the Chicken

1. Heating Oil:
   In a deep pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Test if the oil is ready by dropping a small amount of batter; it should sizzle and rise to the surface.

2. Battering the Chicken:
   Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Dip each piece into the prepared batter, ensuring it’s well coated.

3. Frying:
   Carefully place the battered chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy, usually around 5-7 minutes per side. Avoid overcrowding the pot to maintain temperature and ensure even cooking.

4. Draining:
   Once cooked, remove the chicken and place it on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 5: Smooshing the Chicken

1. Smashed Chicken:
   Using a pestle or the back of a spatula, gently smash each fried chicken piece to tenderize further. This step creates a delightful texture, allowing the flavors of the sambal to seep into the chicken.

Step 6: Plating and Serving

1. Assembling the Dish:
   On a serving plate, place the smashed chicken. Generously drizzle the cooked sambal over the top to enhance the flavors.

2. Accompaniments:
   Geprek Bensu is often served with rice or steamed vegetables. You may also include fresh cucumber slices and fried tofu or tempeh as side dishes.

Step 7: Enjoying Your Geprek Bensu

1. Dig In:
   Serve your Geprek Bensu hot, and don’t forget to provide additional sambal on the side for those who desire extra heat. Pair it with a refreshing iced tea or a sweetened beverage to complement the spicy notes of the dish.

Tips for the Perfect Geprek Bensu

• Chicken Choice: Opt for bone-in chicken for juiciness, but boneless thighs or breasts work excellently too.
• Sambal Variations: Experiment with different chili varieties like cayenne or add ingredients like shrimp paste for a unique twist.
• Make Ahead: Marinate chicken the night before for an extra burst of flavor. The sambal can also be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
• Crispy Texture: Ensure that the oil temperature remains constant during frying for a crispy texture. If the oil is too cold, the chicken will absorb excessive amounts of oil.

By following these detailed steps, you can create delicious Geprek Bensu that reflects the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine. Enjoy the art of cooking and sharing this delightful dish with friends and family!