Spiced Chicken in Banana Leaf
Ayam betutu stripped down to its essence: chicken thighs wrapped and steamed with a fragrant spice paste of shallots, garlic, ginger, and turmeric. This TikTok version skips the underground pit and long braise—high heat and a covered skillet deliver the same tender, aromatic result in 20 minutes.
- Total time
- 25 min
- Servings
- 2
- Calories
- 380
- Protein
- 38g
Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken thighs, bone-in skin-on
- 3 medium, chopped shallots
- 4 cloves garlic cloves
- 1 tbsp, chopped fresh ginger
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 4 pieces, 10-inch squares banana leaves or parchment paper
- ½ cup coconut milk
Instructions
- 1
Pulse shallots, garlic, ginger, and turmeric in a food processor until a coarse paste forms, about 90 seconds.
- 2
Pat chicken dry. Rub each piece inside and out with the spice paste and a pinch of salt.
- 3
Place one chicken piece on each banana leaf, drizzle with coconut milk, then fold corners to create a packet.
- 4
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange packets seam-side down, add 1/4 cup water, cover tightly.
- 5
Steam for 18–20 minutes until chicken is cooked through and pulls easily from the bone.
- 6
Unwrap carefully—steam will be hot—and serve packets on a plate or transfer to a bowl with pan drippings.
Tools you’ll need
- food processor
- large skillet with lid
- tongs
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