Resep Serundeng Ayam Suwir–

For the Serundeng (Spiced Coconut Flakes):

• 200g desiccated coconut (unsweetened)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 shallots, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of fresh ginger, minced
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tbsp palm sugar (or brown sugar)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or sweet soy sauce if available)
• Salt to taste
• 1-2 dried chilies (optional, for heat)

How to Make Serundeng Ayam Suwir

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by cooking the chicken until it’s tender and easy to shred. In a large pot, add the chicken breast (or thighs), onion, garlic, lemongrass stalk, and kaffir lime leaves (if using). Add enough water to cover the chicken, and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, use two forks to shred the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. Set aside the shredded chicken for later.

Step 2: Make the Serundeng

While the chicken is cooking, you can prepare the serundeng. Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the shallots and garlic, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until they become fragrant and golden.

Next, add the ginger, turmeric powder, and coriander powder, and cook for another minute. Stir constantly to prevent the spices from burning. You should start to smell the aromatic spices filling the kitchen.

Add the desiccated coconut to the pan and stir to combine with the spices. Toast the coconut for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the coconut becomes golden brown and slightly crispy. Be careful not to let it burn.

Once the coconut is toasted, add the palm sugar (or brown sugar), soy sauce, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together, allowing the sugar to dissolve and coat the coconut evenly. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can add a bit more sugar. If you like it spicier, feel free to add some chili powder or more dried chilies at this point.

Let the coconut mixture cook for another 2-3 minutes, then remove it from the heat and set it aside.

Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Serundeng

Once both the chicken and serundeng are ready, it’s time to combine them! In a large bowl or serving dish, toss the shredded chicken with the toasted coconut mixture. Use a spoon or your hands to mix it all together, ensuring that the chicken is evenly coated with the flavorful spiced coconut flakes.

You can add a bit of extra soy sauce or salt to taste if needed.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serundeng Ayam Suwir is traditionally served with steamed white rice, but it can also be enjoyed with noodles or wrapped in a tortilla for a fun twist. Garnish with extra fried shallots or fresh herbs (like cilantro or basil) for added freshness and crunch.

This dish is rich, hearty, and absolutely bursting with flavors. The crispy toasted coconut, combined with the tender, flavorful chicken, will have your taste buds dancing with every bite!

Tips and Variations

• Use Chicken Thighs for Extra Flavor: While chicken breasts are often used for their lean protein, chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to the dish. If you want to elevate the flavor, try using thighs instead.
• Add Vegetables: To make this dish even more colorful and nutritious, consider adding some vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or green beans.
• Make it Spicy: If you love spice, feel free to add more fresh chilies or use chili paste in the serundeng mixture. Adjust the heat to your personal preference.
• Make it Vegetarian: You can easily transform this dish into a vegetarian meal by swapping the chicken for tempeh or tofu. Simply pan-fry the tempeh or tofu until crispy, then shred it and mix it with the serundeng.
• Store Leftovers: Serundeng Ayam Suwir stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve as they sit, making this a great dish for meal prep.

Conclusion: A Must-Try Indonesian Classic

Serundeng Ayam Suwir is a dish that combines the best of Indonesian flavors—aromatic spices, tender chicken, and the satisfying crunch of toasted coconut. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a main meal, or even as a topping for rice or noodles, it’s sure to impress.

The balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors in this dish will have you hooked after the first bite. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Indonesia with this delicious Serundeng Ayam Suwir recipe!