Ayam Berempah, often referred to as Ayam Goreng Berempah, is a spicy deep-fried chicken dish that hails from Malaysia. This dish is not just any ordinary fried chicken; it’s marinated overnight in a blend of spices and fragrant curry leaves, making it burst with flavour. Unlike many fried chicken recipes, the marinate in Ayam Berempah doubles up as the batter, reducing the mess during preparation.

Key Ingredients
- Chicken pieces, preferably legs and thighs
- Fresh curry leaves
- Asian shallots, ginger, garlic, and lemongrass for the wet marinate
- A blend of spices including curry powder, ground coriander, cumin, fennel, turmeric, and chili powder for the dry marinate
- Cornflour and egg to bind the marinate

Preparation and Cooking
The chicken is first chopped into medium-sized pieces and seasoned with salt. The wet marinate ingredients are blended until smooth, while the dry ingredients are mixed in a separate bowl. The two are then combined, and an egg is added to the mix. Cornflour and curry leaves are then incorporated, and the chicken pieces are thoroughly coated in this marinate. Ideally, the chicken should be left to marinate in the refrigerator overnight. Before frying, it’s essential to ensure the oil is at the right temperature (around 165 to 175°C) and that the chicken is at room temperature. The chicken is then fried until crispy and golden brown.

Conclusion
Ayam Berempah is a testament to Malaysia’s rich culinary heritage, offering a delightful blend of spices and flavours. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to explore Southeast Asian cuisine.
References
Article curated by Suwaytha Gopal