Hey guys! Ever heard of cireng isi ayam suwir pedas manis? If not, you're in for a treat! Cireng, a popular Indonesian snack made from tapioca starch, gets a flavorful makeover with a spicy and sweet shredded chicken filling. It’s crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, and bursting with savory goodness. This article will guide you through making your own cireng isi ayam suwir pedas manis at home. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this amazing snack!

What is Cireng Isi Ayam Suwir Pedas Manis?

Before we dive into the recipe, let's understand what makes cireng isi ayam suwir pedas manis so special. Cireng itself is a simple snack, originating from West Java, Indonesia. It's made primarily from tapioca starch (also known as aci in Sundanese). The texture is what makes it addictive – crispy when fried, yet delightfully chewy inside.

The “isi ayam suwir pedas manis” part refers to the filling: shredded chicken cooked in a spicy and sweet sauce. This combination of flavors is a staple in Indonesian cuisine, offering a delightful balance that tingles your taste buds. The spiciness comes from chili peppers, while the sweetness is usually derived from kecap manis (sweet soy sauce). The shredded chicken adds a savory depth that complements the starchy cireng perfectly.

Cireng isi ayam suwir pedas manis is not just a snack; it’s an experience. The contrast in textures and the explosion of flavors make it a favorite among Indonesians of all ages. You can find it sold by street vendors, in traditional markets, and even in modern cafes. Each bite is a journey through the rich culinary landscape of Indonesia.

Making cireng isi ayam suwir pedas manis at home allows you to customize the level of spiciness and sweetness to your liking. You can also experiment with different variations of the filling, adding ingredients like mushrooms, vegetables, or even cheese! The possibilities are endless, making this a fun and versatile dish to create.

Ingredients You'll Need

Let's gather all the necessary ingredients to make cireng isi ayam suwir pedas manis. Don't worry, most of these items are easily accessible at your local grocery store or Asian market.

For the Cireng:

• 250 grams tapioca starch (aci)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
• 200 ml hot water
• Cooking oil, for frying

For the Ayam Suwir Pedas Manis (Spicy Sweet Shredded Chicken Filling):

• 250 grams boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 shallots, minced
• 2 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 tablespoons kecap manis (sweet soy sauce)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 100 ml water
• A handful of fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

Having all your ingredients prepped and measured out will make the cooking process much smoother. Trust me, it's a lifesaver when you're juggling multiple steps!

Step-by-Step Recipe

Alright, let's get cooking! Here’s how to make cireng isi ayam suwir pedas manis, broken down into easy-to-follow steps.

Preparing the Ayam Suwir Pedas Manis (Spicy Sweet Shredded Chicken Filling):

1. Cook the Chicken: Boil the chicken breast in water until cooked through. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, let it cool slightly, then shred it using two forks. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and shallots, and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn them, as this will affect the flavor of the filling.
3. Add the Chilies and Spices: Add the chopped red chilies, ground coriander, and turmeric powder to the pan. Stir well and cook for another minute until the spices release their aroma. If you like it extra spicy, feel free to add more chilies!
4. Incorporate the Chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the pan. Stir well to coat the chicken with the spice mixture. Make sure the chicken is evenly distributed in the pan.
5. Add the Sauces and Seasonings: Pour in the kecap manis (sweet soy sauce), soy sauce, water, sugar, and salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken has absorbed the flavors. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Finish with Basil (Optional): If you're using fresh basil leaves, add them to the pan in the last few minutes of cooking. Stir to combine and let the basil wilt slightly. The basil adds a fresh, aromatic note to the filling.
7. Taste and Adjust: Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more sugar for sweetness, salt for savory flavor, or chili for extra spice. Remember, it's all about personal preference!
8. Set Aside to Cool: Once the filling is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely before using it to fill the cireng. This will prevent the cireng from becoming soggy.

Making the Cireng:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the tapioca starch, all-purpose flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Add Hot Water: Gradually pour the hot water into the bowl while stirring continuously. The mixture will start to form a sticky dough. Be careful not to add all the water at once, as you might need to adjust the amount depending on the consistency of the dough. The dough should be pliable and easy to handle.
3. Knead the Dough: Once the dough has cooled slightly, knead it with your hands until it forms a smooth, elastic ball. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more tapioca starch. If it's too dry, add a little more hot water. The consistency is key to achieving the perfect cireng texture.
4. Shape and Fill the Cireng: Take a small portion of the dough and flatten it in your palm. Place a spoonful of the cooled ayam suwir pedas manis filling in the center of the dough. Carefully fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal it completely. Make sure there are no gaps or holes, as the filling will leak out during frying. Repeat this process until all the dough and filling are used up.
5. Fry the Cireng: Heat cooking oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the filled cireng into the pan, being careful not to overcrowd it. Fry the cireng until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-5 minutes per side. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
6. Remove and Drain: Once the cireng are cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. This will help them stay crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the cireng isi ayam suwir pedas manis hot and fresh. They are best enjoyed immediately while they are still crispy and the filling is warm and flavorful. You can serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as a spicy peanut sauce or a sweet chili sauce, for an extra kick.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cireng

Making cireng isi ayam suwir pedas manis can be a bit tricky at first, but with these tips and tricks, you'll be a pro in no time!

• Use Hot Water: The hot water is crucial for gelatinizing the tapioca starch and creating the chewy texture of the cireng. Make sure the water is hot, but not boiling, to avoid cooking the starch too quickly.
• Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the cireng, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy cireng. Fry them in batches for best results.
• Control the Heat: Maintain a medium heat while frying the cireng. If the heat is too high, the cireng will burn on the outside while remaining raw on the inside. If the heat is too low, they will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Seal the Edges Properly: Make sure to seal the edges of the cireng properly to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying. Pinch the edges tightly and smooth them out to create a secure seal.
• Experiment with Fillings: While ayam suwir pedas manis is the classic filling, don't be afraid to experiment with other fillings. You can try using shredded beef, vegetables, cheese, or even sweet fillings like chocolate or peanut butter.

Variations

The beauty of cireng isi ayam suwir pedas manis lies in its versatility. Here are a few variations you can try to spice things up:

• Cireng Isi Sosis Pedas (Spicy Sausage Filling): Replace the shredded chicken with diced sausages cooked in a spicy sauce. This is a great option for those who prefer a simpler filling.
• Cireng Isi Keju (Cheese Filling): Fill the cireng with a mixture of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. This is a popular option for kids and cheese lovers.
• Cireng Isi Oncom (Fermented Soybean Cake Filling): Use oncom, a fermented soybean cake, as the filling. This adds a unique, earthy flavor to the cireng.
• Cireng Isi Sayuran (Vegetable Filling): Create a vegetarian version by filling the cireng with a mixture of sautéed vegetables like carrots, cabbage, and green beans.

Serving Suggestions

Cireng isi ayam suwir pedas manis is a versatile snack that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• As a Snack: Serve them as a standalone snack with your favorite dipping sauce. Spicy peanut sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even a simple tomato sauce work well.
• As an Appetizer: Serve them as an appetizer at parties or gatherings. They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
• With a Cup of Tea or Coffee: Enjoy them with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a satisfying afternoon treat.
• As Part of a Meal: Serve them as a side dish with rice and other Indonesian dishes for a complete meal.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! A comprehensive guide on how to make cireng isi ayam suwir pedas manis at home. With its crispy exterior, chewy interior, and flavorful filling, this Indonesian snack is sure to become a new favorite. Don't be intimidated by the recipe; it's easier than you think. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade treat. Happy cooking, and enjoy your cireng isi ayam suwir pedas manis! You got this! 😉