
Simple Chicken Gulai Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 whole Olagud free-range chicken cut into 10 pieces
- 500 ml thick coconut milk
- 1 liter water
- 3 kaffir lime leaves
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 stalk lemongrass bruised
- 1 thumb-sized piece of galangal bruised
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil for sautéing
- Ground Spices:
- 8 shallots
- 5 cloves garlic
- 5 large red chilies remove seeds if less heat is desired
- 3 candlenuts roasted
- 1 thumb-sized piece of turmeric lightly charred
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and sugar to taste
Method
- Thoroughly wash the chicken pieces, then rub with a little salt and lime juice. Let stand for 15 minutes, then rinse again. This helps reduce any gamey odor.
- Heat oil in a large wok or pot. Sauté the ground spices along with the lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and bay leaves until fragrant and the spices are thoroughly cooked.
- Add the chicken pieces to the sautéed spices. Stir until the chicken changes color and is evenly coated with the seasoning. Pour in the water and cook over medium heat for 20 minutes, or until the chicken becomes tender.
- Once the water has reduced and the chicken is tender, slowly pour in the coconut milk, stirring continuously to prevent it from curdling. Reduce the heat and cook until the sauce thickens and releases its oils. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- The chicken gulai is ready to be served hot with steamed rice, sambal, and simple accompaniments like cucumber slices or basil leaves.
Notes
Simple chicken gulai is more than just a common home-cooked meal; it embodies the rich warmth of Indonesian spices in every spoonful. With readily available ingredients and straightforward cooking steps, this recipe delivers a perfect blend of spicy flavors and creamy coconut milk, ideal for lunch or special occasions.
Chicken gulai is a quintessential Indonesian culinary delight that consistently holds a special place in the hearts of spice enthusiasts. Abundant in flavor from coconut milk and selected spices, chicken gulai presents itself in various regional renditions, spanning from Sumatra to Java. This recipe is specifically designed to enable anyone to prepare it at home using readily available ingredients. There’s no need to be a professional chef to bring the authentic aroma and taste of this dish into your kitchen. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure!
Simple Chicken Gulai, Full of Flavor
Preparing simple chicken gulai at home is an excellent meal choice due to its straightforward preparation and rich, aromatic flavor profile. You can make this chicken dish even healthier for your family by selecting high-quality ingredients. Use Olagud’s fresh probiotic free-range chicken, which is healthier and safer because it’s raised using modern farming methods and its quality is meticulously maintained, resulting in hygienic, chemical-free poultry products.
With easily accessible ingredients, common kitchen tools, and helpful tips, you can now serve delicious and healthy chicken gulai at your dining table. Feel free to get creative and adjust according to your taste, as the best food is made with love and joy. Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!

