🇮🇩 Indonesia · Food
Ayam Gulai
By eatmundo · August 4, 2026
A velvety, golden chicken curry slow-cooked in a rich, aromatic coconut milk broth. Featuring a delicate balance of turmeric, coriander, and fresh aromatics, this dish is a comforting staple of Indonesian cuisine.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Cut the chicken into medium-sized pieces and rub with 0.5 tsp salt to season, letting it rest for 10 minutes.
- 2
In a large pan or Dutch oven, combine 400ml coconut milk, bruised lemongrass, torn lime leaves, and galangal over medium heat.
- 3
Stir in the turmeric powder and coriander powder until the coconut milk becomes a uniform, vibrant golden hue.
- 4
Gently place the chicken pieces into the coconut milk, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid.
- 5
Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the coconut milk from curdling.
- 6
Season with the remaining 1 tsp of salt and check that the chicken is fully cooked through and the sauce has reached a thick, creamy consistency before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ayam Gulai?+
Ayam Gulai is an Indonesian chicken curry characterized by its rich, spicy coconut milk gravy. The dish is seasoned with aromatics like lemongrass, galangal, and turmeric and is typically served as a main course alongside steamed rice.
Can I use chicken breast?+
Chicken thigh is highly recommended for its tenderness and moisture, which prevents it from drying out in the curry.
How to tell when it is done?+
The chicken is ready when it is tender and the sauce has reduced and thickened slightly, clinging to the meat.
Is lime leaf essential?+
Yes, lime leaves provide a unique, citrusy floral note that is vital to the authentic profile of an Indonesian gulai.
Can I make this spicy?+
Absolutely; stir in a tablespoon of ground red chili paste along with the turmeric for a heat kick.
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