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Indonesia · Food

Ayam Pop

90 min
540 kcal
4 servings

By eatmundo · August 4, 2026

Ayam Pop🇮🇩AI-generated image

Same ingredients, elsewhere in the world

2 matches

Dishes from other countries' kitchens, made from the same core ingredients as Ayam Pop. The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.

Same technique: Stew404 recipes from 26 countries

A classic Padang-style dish featuring pale, succulent chicken simmered in coconut water and spices. It is renowned for its tender texture and delicate, aromatic flavor profile.

According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Ayam Pop from another cuisine is Chicken Kapitan (Malaysia): the two share 75% of their ingredients.

Ingredients

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Adapt this recipe:
4 servings

How to Make It

  • 1

    In a food processor, blend the shallots, garlic, candlenuts and galangal into a fine, smooth spice paste.

  • 2

    Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a deep pot over medium heat and sauté the spice paste until it is incredibly fragrant, about 3 minutes.

  • 3

    Add the chicken pieces and bruised lemongrass stalks, stirring for 2 minutes to coat every piece thoroughly in the aromatics.

  • 4

    Pour in the coconut water, ensuring the chicken is submerged, then season with 1 tsp of salt.

  • 5

    Bring the liquid to a very gentle simmer; do not let it boil vigorously, so the chicken stays tender and pale.

  • 6

    Cook covered for 45 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally to ensure even cooking and color.

  • 7

    Carefully remove the chicken pieces, which should be pale and tender, and place them on a tray to air dry for 5 minutes.

  • 8

    Heat the remaining 2 tbsp of oil in a frying pan and flash-fry the chicken for only 30 seconds per side to seal it, then serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ayam Pop?

Ayam Pop is an Indonesian chicken dish originating from West Sumatra. It consists of chicken simmered in coconut water with spices such as galangal and lemongrass, then briefly fried, and is typically served as part of a Nasi Padang meal.

Why is the chicken pale?

The dish is poached in coconut water and aromatics, and is only flash-fried in the very final step, preserving its signature soft, light color.

Can I use macadamia nuts?

Yes, if you cannot find candlenuts, macadamia nuts are the closest substitute as they provide the same creamy richness to the sauce.

How long should I fry the chicken?

Only flash-fry for 30 seconds to maintain the tenderness; over-frying will ruin the specific, signature texture of Ayam Pop.

What is the best way to serve this?

Serve it warm with steamed white rice and a spicy sambal on the side, as the mild chicken balances the heat well.

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