Have you ever heard of Sate Ambal? This Javanese delicacy might not be as well-known as other types of satay, but it definitely deserves recognition for its unique taste and history.
Sate Ambal is a traditional dish from Kebumen, a regency in Central Java. It is believed to have been created during the reign of Sultan Agung, a Javanese king from the Mataram Sultanate in the 17th century. The dish was named after Ambal, a village where the king’s soldiers were stationed.
What makes Sate Ambal different from other types of satay is the sauce that accompanies it. Instead of the usual peanut sauce, Sate Ambal is served with a thick, sweet sauce made from kecap manis (sweet soy sauce), brown sugar, garlic, and other spices. The sauce is boiled until it thickens and caramelizes, giving it a rich, smoky flavor that complements the grilled meat.
Here is the recipe and steps to make Sate Ambal:
Ingredients:
- 600g Chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 7 tbsp Sweet soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Chicken stock
Spice Paste:
- 7 shallots
- 5 garlic cloves
- 5 candlenuts
- Ginger
- Turmeric
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
Steps:
- Marinate chicken with sweet soy sauce, cooking oil, and spice paste. Leave it for about 45 minutes.
- While waiting for the marinade to seep into the chicken, make the tempeh sauce. Blend garlic, shallots, curly red chili, salt, and brown sugar. Add tempe. Mix well. Pour water. Cook until done.
- Skewer the chicken and grill the satay while basting it with the remaining marinade until the chicken is cooked.
Speaking of meat, Sate Ambal is traditionally made with goat meat, although nowadays, chicken and beef are also commonly used. The meat is marinated in a mixture of sweet soy sauce, garlic, and other seasonings before being skewered and grilled over hot coals.
Sate Ambal is usually served with lontong (rice cake) and sliced cucumber and shallots. The combination of the sweet, savory sauce and tender, flavorful meat is simply irresistible. If you ever find yourself in Kebumen, be sure to try Sate Ambal at one of the many warung (food stalls) that sell it. You won’t regret it!
Author: David Aria Wijaya
