Black Nut Chicken

Black Nut Chicken or Ayam Buah Keluak, a true culinary masterpiece that tantalizes the taste buds and transports you to the vibrant world of Peranakan cuisine. Originating from the rich cultural tapestry of the Peranakan community, this dish is a celebration of flavors, traditions, and history.

ayam buah keluak (black nut)
Black Nut Chicken / Ayam Buah Keluak

Picture succulent chicken pieces, lovingly simmered in a luscious sauce infused with the remarkable flavors of the buah keluak nut. This nut, with its dark and mysterious appearance, adds depth and complexity to the dish. Its black flesh, reminiscent of dark chocolate and black truffle, imparts a unique earthiness that elevates the entire culinary experience.

Ayam Buah Keluak is a testament to the fusion of Chinese and Malay influences that define Peranakan cuisine. It showcases the ingenuity and creativity of the Peranakan community, who masterfully blend aromatic spices, herbs, and ingredients to create a symphony of flavors. This dish is a true reflection of the vibrant and diverse culture that birthed it.

With each bite, you will discover a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and slightly bitter notes. The tender chicken, bathed in the rich and creamy sauce, absorbs the essence of the buah keluak, creating a flavor profile that is nothing short of extraordinary. It is a journey for the senses, a culinary adventure that will leave you craving for more.

To fully appreciate the cultural significance of Ayam Buah Keluak, it is important to understand the Peranakan heritage. The Peranakan people are descendants of Chinese immigrants who settled in the Malay Archipelago, particularly in present-day Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. Their unique blend of cultures is beautifully encapsulated in their cuisine, and Ayam Buah Keluak stands as a shining example of their culinary prowess.

As you savor this remarkable dish, you become a part of this rich tapestry of culture, history, and flavors. It is a testament to the power of food to transcend boundaries, connect communities, and tell stories. Ayam Buah Keluak invites you to take a bite and embark on an unforgettable culinary journey through time and tradition.

About Buah Keluak
Buah keluak refers to the fruit of the kepayang tree, scientifically known as Pangium edule. It is a dark brown, oval-shaped fruit native to Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia and Malaysia. Inside the fruit, you will find the black flesh, which is used in cooking to create the distinctive flavors of dishes like Ayam Buah Keluak. It has a unique earthy and nutty taste that adds depth and richness to the dish.

To access the culinary treasure within, one must crack open the outer shell of the buah keluak. Inside, you will discover the black, wrinkled flesh, which is the part used in cooking. The flesh has a rich, earthy flavor with a hint of bitterness, reminiscent of dark chocolate or black truffle. Its texture is soft and velvety.

To prepare buah keluak for cooking, it is important to soak the nuts in hot water for about 15 minutes. This softens the flesh and makes it easier to remove from the shells. The shells themselves are not edible and should be discarded.

When cooked, buah keluak imparts a unique and complex flavor to dishes. It is commonly used in Ayam Buah Keluak, where the chicken is simmered in a sauce made with the buah keluak flesh, creating a rich and robust taste experience. The buah keluak flesh absorbs the flavors of the dish, adding depth and character.

Although buah keluak may not be readily available in every corner of the world, it can often be found in specialty Asian grocery stores or ordered online. It is truly a treasure of Peranakan cuisine, and I encourage anyone who has the opportunity to try it to experience its distinctive taste.

[] Prep Time: Circa 30 Minutes
Cook Time: Circa 02 Hour
Suitable: Halal
Rating: 4 Category: Dinner
Origin: Sundaland
Serving: 6 Person
Tags: Aromatic, Peranakan Food, Chicken
Nutrition facts: 400 calories25 grams fat

So, my dear food enthusiast, I invite you to immerse yourself in the world of Ayam Buah Keluak. Let its flavors captivate your palate, let its history ignite your curiosity, and let its cultural significance deepen your appreciation. Discover the magic of Peranakan cuisine, and let this dish transport you to a realm of culinary delight. Bon appétit!

Ingredients:
  • 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
  • 10-12 buah keluak nuts
  • 2 tablespoons tamarind pulp
  • 4 tablespoons water
  • 4 tablespoons oil
  • 4 shallots, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons belacan (shrimp paste)
  • 2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 tablespoon palm sugar or brown sugar
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • Salt to taste

Instructions:
  1. Soak the buah keluak nuts in hot water for about 15 minutes. Then, using a nutcracker, crack open the nuts and remove the black flesh from inside. Discard the shells and set the flesh aside.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the tamarind pulp with water. Mix well and strain the liquid to remove any seeds or fibers. Set aside the tamarind juice.
  3. Heat oil in a large pot or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and golden brown.
  4. Add the belacan, ground coriander, cumin, and turmeric powder to the pot. Stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes, until the spices are well combined and aromatic.
  5. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides, stirring occasionally.
  6. Now, add the buah keluak flesh and palm sugar to the pot. Stir well to coat the chicken and buah keluak with the spice mixture.
  7. Pour in the tamarind juice and coconut milk, and season with salt to taste. Mix everything together, cover the pot, and simmer over low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together.
  8. Check the seasoning and adjust if needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water to achieve the desired consistency.
  9. Serve the Ayam Buah Keluak hot with steamed rice or fragrant coconut rice. The rich and complex flavors of the dish will surely impress your taste buds.

Photograph of Ayam Buah Keluak

Remember, Ayam Buah Keluak requires time and patience to develop its full flavors. The buah keluak nuts bring a distinct earthy taste to the dish, complemented by the aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk. 

Prepare to be captivated by its rich flavors, its cultural significance, and the sheer joy it brings to the table. It's a recipe that holds the power to transport you to the heart of Peranakan cuisine, where tradition meets innovation, and where taste buds dance in delight. So, my adventurous food enthusiasts, embrace the magic, unleash your culinary creativity, and let Ayam Buah Keluak take you on a gastronomic adventure like no other. Prepare to tantalize your senses, for this recipe is truly worth experiencing, even if it means risking a little culinary obsession. Bon appétit and happy cooking!
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