Balinese-style Grilled Chicken

Ingredients

While the original Pollo a la brasa is known for its Peruvian spices and cooking techniques, this Balinese adaptation incorporates the unique flavors and ingredients of Balinese cuisine. The marinade for the Balinese-style Grilled Chicken includes traditional Balinese spices such as lemongrass, ginger, turmeric, and garlic, which give the dish its distinct Balinese flavor profile. Additionally, the dish is traditionally served with sambal matah, a spicy Balinese condiment, to enhance the overall taste experience. We alse have the original recipe for Pollo a la brasa, so you can check it out.

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 4 stalks lemongrass, white parts only, finely chopped 4 stalks lemongrass, white parts only, finely chopped
• 2 inches ginger, grated 2 inches ginger, grated
• 2 teaspoons turmeric powder 2 teaspoons turmeric powder
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons kecap manis (sweet soy sauce) 2 tablespoons kecap manis (sweet soy sauce)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Sambal Matah (Balinese spicy condiment), for serving Sambal Matah (Balinese spicy condiment), for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 2g, 1g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the lemongrass, ginger, turmeric powder, minced garlic, soy sauce, kecap manis, vegetable oil, salt, and black pepper to make the marinade.
2. 2.
   Place the chicken pieces in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure that all the chicken pieces are well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Grill the chicken for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is cooked through and has a nicely charred exterior.
5. 5.
   Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
6. 6.
   Serve the Balinese-style Grilled Chicken with sambal matah on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemongrass — To release the flavor, bruise the lemongrass stalks with the back of a knife before finely chopping them.
• Turmeric powder — Wear gloves or be cautious while handling turmeric powder, as it can stain your hands and clothes.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, baste the chicken with the marinade while grilling.
• If you don't have a grill, you can also cook the chicken in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for approximately 30-35 minutes.
• Serve the Balinese-style Grilled Chicken with steamed rice and a side of fresh cucumber and tomato salad for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Balinese-style Grilled Chicken hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime juice for an added zing.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled chicken pieces on a platter, drizzle some sambal matah over the top, and garnish with sliced red chili and lime wedges for a vibrant and appetizing presentation.