Spicy Tomato Chicken (Ayam Masak Merah)

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Are you looking for a flavorful and spicy dish to spice up your dinner?

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Spicy Tomato Chicken (Ayam Masak Merah)
Prep
20 min
Cook
35 min
Total
55 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. Start by rubbing turmeric powder and salt onto the chicken.

  2. Let the chicken sit aside.

  3. Soak the dried red chile peppers in hot water until they become soft.

  4. Use a blender to blend the softened dried chile, fresh red chile pepper, garlic, onion, and ginger into a paste.

  5. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat.

  6. Brown the chicken in the hot oil until it turns golden on all sides.

  7. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

  8. Remove any excess oil from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon.

  9. Cook and stir the chile paste with the cinnamon, star anise, cloves, and cardamom seeds until it becomes fragrant.

  10. Return the chicken to the skillet.

  11. Stir in the water, adding more if necessary.

  12. Add the tomatoes and stir in the ketchup and sugar.

  13. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the chicken is no longer pink at the bone and the juices run clear. This should take approximately 15 minutes.

  14. Serve the dish hot.

About this recipe

Are you looking for a flavorful and spicy dish to spice up your dinner? Look no further than Spicy Tomato Chicken, also known as Ayam Masak Merah. This delicious Malaysian dish is packed with bold flavors and a perfect balance of spiciness and tanginess. Let's dive into the world of Ayam Masak Merah and discover how to make this mouthwatering dish.

What is Ayam Masak Merah?

Ayam Masak Merah is a traditional Malaysian dish that translates to "Red Cooked Chicken" in English. It is a popular dish in Malay cuisine, known for its vibrant red color and spicy flavor profile. The dish is made by marinating chicken pieces in a spicy tomato-based sauce, which gives it its distinctive taste and appearance.

How to Make Ayam Masak Merah?

Making Ayam Masak Merah is relatively simple and requires a few key ingredients. Firstly, you'll need chicken pieces, preferably bone-in for added flavor. The chicken is marinated with a blend of spices such as turmeric, chili powder, and cumin. The marinated chicken is then shallow-fried until golden brown.

In a separate pan, a flavorful sauce is prepared using tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and a combination of spices. The sauce is simmered until it thickens and develops a rich, tangy flavor. The fried chicken pieces are then added to the sauce, allowing them to absorb the flavors while simmering together.

The end result is a tantalizing dish with tender chicken pieces coated in a spicy and tangy sauce. Ayam Masak Merah is often served with steamed rice or roti, making it a satisfying and hearty meal.

Ayam Masak Merah has gained popularity not only in Malaysia but also internationally due to its delicious taste and versatility. The dish combines the spiciness of chili with the tanginess of tomatoes, creating a unique flavor profile that appeals to many taste buds.

Furthermore, Ayam Masak Merah is a visually appealing dish. The vibrant red color of the sauce, coupled with the golden-brown chicken pieces, is a feast for the eyes. It adds a burst of color to any dining table, making it an attractive option for special occasions and gatherings.

Additionally, the use of common ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques make Ayam Masak Merah accessible to home cooks of all skill levels. You don't have to be a professional chef to whip up this delectable dish in your own kitchen.

Tips for Perfect Ayam Masak Merah

Here are some tips to ensure your Ayam Masak Merah turns out perfectly:

  • Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
  • Use ripe tomatoes for a sweeter and tangier sauce.
  • Adjust the spiciness according to your preference by adding more or fewer chili peppers.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced red chilies for added flavor and visual appeal.

In Conclusion

Ayam Masak Merah is a flavorful and spicy dish that will delight your taste buds. Its vibrant red color, tangy tomato-based sauce, and tender chicken make it a popular choice among food lovers. Whether you're a fan of Malaysian cuisine or simply looking to try something new, Ayam Masak Merah is a must-try dish. So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the deliciousness of Ayam Masak Merah!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use boneless chicken for Ayam Masak Merah?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken if you prefer. However, using bone-in chicken adds more flavor to the dish.

Is Ayam Masak Merah very spicy?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted according to your taste preferences. You can increase or decrease the amount of chili peppers used in the dish.

Can I substitute fresh tomatoes with canned tomatoes?

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. However, fresh tomatoes will give the sauce a fresher and brighter flavor.

How long does Ayam Masak Merah stay fresh?

Ayam Masak Merah can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Can I make Ayam Masak Merah vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of Ayam Masak Merah.

What is the best side dish to serve with Ayam Masak Merah?

Ayam Masak Merah is commonly served with steamed rice or roti, which complement the flavors of the dish.

Can I freeze Ayam Masak Merah?

Yes, you can freeze Ayam Masak Merah for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use Ayam Masak Merah sauce as a marinade?

Absolutely! The Ayam Masak Merah sauce can be used as a delicious marinade for other meats or vegetables.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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