chicken feet seblak recipe

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Feet

• Clean the chicken feet thoroughly by washing them and cutting off the nails using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors. This step is important for hygiene and texture.
• Blanch the chicken feet in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to remove any impurities. After blanching, drain and set aside.

2. Make the Seblak Broth

• In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped shallots, and minced ginger, and sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
• Add the red chilies and bird’s eye chilies (if using) and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chilies to release their flavor.
• Add the shrimp paste (if using) and cook for an additional minute, stirring well to incorporate.
• Add the chopped tomatoes, kaffir lime leaves, and lemongrass to the pot, and cook until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, about 5 minutes.
• Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Stir in the tamarind paste, sugar, and salt to taste. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference, adding more salt or sugar if needed.

3. Simmer the Chicken Feet

• Add the cleaned chicken feet to the broth and allow them to simmer over low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken feet are tender and absorb the flavors of the broth. The skin of the chicken feet should become soft and gelatinous, which is part of the charm of this dish. Keep an eye on the liquid level, and add more broth or water if necessary to maintain a rich, soupy consistency.

4. Prepare the Garnishes

• While the chicken feet are simmering, prepare your garnishes. Boil eggs in a separate pot for about 8-10 minutes for hard-boiled eggs, peel, and set aside.
• Chop the cilantro and prepare fried shallots for added texture and flavor.

5. Assemble and Serve

• Once the chicken feet are tender and the broth is richly flavored, serve the Seblak hot in bowls. Garnish with boiled eggs, chopped cilantro, and a sprinkle of fried shallots for crunch.
• Serve with lime wedges on the side for a burst of citrusy freshness that complements the spicy and tangy flavors of the broth.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Feet Seblak

1. Adjust the Spice: The level of spice in Seblak is one of its defining characteristics. If you’re not accustomed to spicy food, start with fewer chilies and gradually add more as you taste the broth. You can also remove the seeds from the chilies to reduce some of the heat.
2. Long Simmering Time: The key to a great Chicken Feet Seblak is simmering the feet for a long time. This allows the chicken feet to become tender and soak up all the wonderful flavors of the broth. Don’t rush this step—take your time to develop a deep, rich flavor.
3. Make it More Hearty: You can add other ingredients to make this dish even more filling. Add boiled potatoes, tofu, or instant noodles to turn it into a one-pot meal.
4. Add a Sweet Element: If you like a little sweetness to balance the heat, consider adding a few slices of palm sugar or a bit more sugar to the broth. This will enhance the depth of flavor.
5. Serve with Rice: Chicken Feet Seblak is typically enjoyed with steamed white rice to help soak up the flavorful broth. It makes for a well-rounded, comforting meal.

Why Chicken Feet Seblak is Worth Trying

If you’re adventurous and want to experience a bold, flavorful dish, Chicken Feet Seblak is a must-try. It’s not just about the chicken feet; it’s about the complex flavors that meld together in the broth—spicy, tangy, and savory all at once. The chewy texture of the chicken feet is a unique culinary experience, and they’re perfect for soaking up the rich, aromatic broth.

Seblak is a dish that is deeply rooted in Indonesian culture, especially in Bandung, where it’s often sold by street vendors. Traditionally, Seblak includes a variety of ingredients, from noodles to chips, but the version with chicken feet adds a delightful twist that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Whether you’re a fan of Indonesian cuisine or looking to try something new, this Chicken Feet Seblak will definitely satisfy your cravings for bold, spicy flavors. The addition of tamarind and chili gives it a wonderful balance of heat and acidity, while the chicken feet bring texture and richness to the dish.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to expand your culinary horizons, Chicken Feet Seblak is a dish you won’t forget. With its savory broth, spicy kick, and tender chicken feet, it’s a flavorful, comforting meal that perfectly represents the vibrant street food culture of Indonesia. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with friends, this dish will certainly impress and leave everyone wanting more.

Enjoy the rich, satisfying flavors of Chicken Feet Seblak, and remember, like any great dish, it only gets better the longer the flavors have to meld. Happy cooking!