Malaysian Belacan Fried Chicken
The ultimate comfort food, Malaysian Belacan Fried Chicken offers a crispy exterior and juicy interior, making it a perfect choice for an easy weeknight dinner. The unique flavors of belacan and a touch of spice take this dish to new heights. Try it tonight, and elevate your meal!
Equipment
- Skillet
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 6 pieces chicken drumsticks
- 1 tablespoon cilantro stems juice
- 1 tablespoon shrimp sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon sugar
- 1 piece egg white
- 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the chicken under cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels. This step ensures that the chicken is clean and that the marinade adheres better.
- Next, prepare the cilantro juice. Trim the bottom 2 inches of the cilantro stems and use a mortar and pestle to pound the stems. Squeeze the mixture by hand to extract any remaining juice. This juice will add a vibrant flavor to the marinade.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp sauce, sugar, egg white, sesame oil, cilantro juice, cornstarch, and flour. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. This batter is crucial for coating the chicken.
- Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl, ensuring each piece is coated thoroughly with the marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 to 6 hours, or even overnight if you have the time. The longer the marination, the more flavorful the chicken will be.
- When you’re ready to fry, heat a pot of cooking oil to a temperature of about 350°F (175°C). The oil should be hot enough that a drop of batter sizzles upon contact.
- Gently drop the marinated chicken into the hot oil, taking care not to overcrowd the pot. This allows for even frying and ensures a crispy texture.
- Fry the chicken for about 10 to 12 minutes until it’s golden brown and crispy. You want to ensure that the inside is fully cooked while keeping the outer layer crunchy and inviting.
- Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This step is important for keeping the fried chicken crispy and not greasy.
- Serve your Malaysian Belacan Fried Chicken immediately, complemented with a side of chili sauce for dipping. The contrasting spice of the sauce perfectly balances the rich flavors of the chicken.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken can stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken for later use. Just make sure to thaw it properly before frying.
- Pairing: Serve with fragrant jasmine rice or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness of the chicken.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices in the marinade to suit your taste preferences.
- Serving Temp: Enjoy the chicken hot for the best texture and flavor experience.
- Presentation: Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and extra freshness when serving.