Oblok Rooster Specialty Old Betawi

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“Oblok Oblok Ayam Kampung Betawi” or simply “Oblok Rooster” is a traditional Betawi (native to Jakarta, Indonesia) dish that features free-range or village chicken cooked with a flavorful mixture of spices and herbs. This dish is known for its rich and aromatic sauce and is often considered a specialty of Betawi cuisine. Here’s a description of Oblok Rooster Specialty Old Betawi:

Appearance: Oblok Rooster is typically served in a generous portion, showcasing pieces of tender, free-range or village chicken bathed in a luscious, reddish-brown sauce. The sauce is glossy and thick, coating the chicken beautifully.

Texture: The texture of the dish is a highlight, with the chicken pieces being succulent and tender, having absorbed the flavors of the aromatic sauce. The sauce itself is velvety and slightly thickened, providing a rich and satisfying mouthfeel.

Flavor: Oblok Rooster boasts a complex and well-balanced flavor profile. It’s savory, slightly sweet, and has a hint of spiciness. The sauce’s richness comes from a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, and it has a subtle coconut milk undertone that adds creaminess to the dish.

Ingredients: The key ingredients used in making Oblok Rooster Specialty Old Betawi include:

• Chicken: Village or free-range chicken is the star ingredient, known for its superior taste and texture compared to commercially raised poultry.
• Coconut Milk: Coconut milk is used to create the creamy base of the sauce, adding depth and richness.
• Spices and Aromatics: A combination of Indonesian spices and herbs, such as shallots, garlic, ginger, galangal, lemongrass, bay leaves, and kaffir lime leaves, infuses the sauce with a medley of flavors.
• Chili: Red chili peppers provide a touch of spiciness to the dish, which can be adjusted to suit your heat preference.
• Tamarind: Tamarind paste or tamarind juice is used for a tangy note, balancing the richness of the coconut milk.
• Palm Sugar: Palm sugar is used for sweetness, providing a natural and earthy sweetness to the dish.

Preparation: The preparation of Oblok Rooster involves several steps:

1. The chicken is cleaned and cut into serving pieces, typically leaving the bone-in to enhance the flavor.
2. A fragrant spice paste is prepared by blending or grinding together shallots, garlic, ginger, galangal, and red chili peppers.
3. The chicken is sautéed in a bit of oil until it starts to change color.
4. The spice paste is added to the pan and cooked until it becomes aromatic.
5. Coconut milk is poured into the pan, followed by the addition of kaffir lime leaves, bay leaves, tamarind, and palm sugar.
6. The dish is simmered until the chicken is cooked through, and the sauce thickens and develops its rich flavor.

Serving: Oblok Rooster is typically served hot and enjoyed with steamed rice, which helps balance the robust flavors of the dish. It is often served as part of a traditional Betawi meal or as a special treat for family gatherings and celebrations.

This dish is a testament to the culinary heritage of the Betawi people, showcasing their expertise in creating bold and delicious dishes using locally sourced ingredients. Oblok Rooster Specialty Old Betawi remains a beloved and cherished dish in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta.