🇮🇩 Indonesia · Food
Opor Ayam
By eatmundo · August 4, 2026
A classic Javanese chicken curry cooked in a fragrant, creamy coconut milk gravy. It is mild, savory, and widely associated with festive celebrations.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Blend the shallots, garlic, turmeric, and coriander seeds into a smooth paste using a blender.
- 2
Heat a heavy pot over medium heat and sauté the spice paste until it is aromatic and the raw scent disappears, about 4 minutes.
- 3
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and sear them for 5 minutes until they begin to change color.
- 4
Pour in the coconut milk and add the bruised lemongrass stalks.
- 5
Stir continuously for 2 minutes to prevent the coconut milk from curdling as it begins to simmer.
- 6
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30 minutes until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- 7
Season with salt and adjust the balance to your preference.
- 8
Serve hot, garnished with fried shallots, alongside steamed white rice or compressed rice cakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Opor Ayam spicy?+
No, it is a mild, creamy coconut dish. It is perfect for people who prefer lower spice levels.
Can I use chicken breast?+
Yes, but leg meat is preferred because it stays juicy during the long simmering process.
What if the sauce breaks?+
Always keep the heat low and stir consistently when you first add the coconut milk to avoid separation.
What is the best side dish?+
It is traditionally paired with 'ketupat' (compressed rice cakes) or simple white rice.
