Romani-style Smashed Chicken (Ayam Penyet)

Ingredients

In this Romani adaptation of Ayam Penyet, we incorporate Romani spices such as paprika and cumin to infuse the chicken with a smoky flavor. Additionally, we serve the chicken with a tangy tomato-based sauce, which adds a Romani twist to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Ayam penyet, so you can check it out.

• 4 chicken thighs 4 chicken thighs
• 2 teaspoons paprika 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish Fresh cilantro for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the paprika, cumin, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture onto the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat. Fry the marinated chicken thighs until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes per side. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. 3.
   In a separate pan, sauté the diced tomatoes and chopped onion until softened. Add the tomato paste, lemon juice, sugar, and salt. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. 4.
   Place the fried chicken thighs on a serving plate and gently smash them using the back of a spoon or a meat mallet. Pour the tomato sauce over the smashed chicken.
5. 5.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with your choice of side dishes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Chicken thighs — For best results, use boneless and skinless chicken thighs to ensure even cooking and easy smashing.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy texture, double fry the chicken thighs. After the first fry, let them cool for a few minutes, then fry them again until golden brown.
• Adjust the level of spiciness by adding chili powder or flakes to the marinade.
• Serve the Romani-style Smashed Chicken with a side of Romani-style roasted potatoes for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Romani-style Smashed Chicken hot, accompanied by the tangy tomato sauce and garnished with fresh cilantro. It pairs well with a side of Romani-style roasted potatoes or a simple green salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the smashed chicken thighs on a platter, drizzle the tomato sauce over them, and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for an appealing presentation. Serve with the side dish and a fresh salad to create an enticing and colorful plate.