pradeep's blog

   🌶️ Pradeep’s Chicken Rendang (Quick & Easy Shortcut Version) This shortcut Chicken Rendang keeps all the rich, nutty, and aromatic flavors of the traditional Malaysian classic—without the hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy nights when you still crave something exotic and deeply satisfying. 📝 Ingredients 🍗 Chicken 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into cubes 🌿 Whole Spices 2 cinnamon sticks 10 whole cloves 8 star anise 10 cardamom pods 🥥 Coconut Components 1 (13.6 fl oz) can coconut milk ½ cup store-bought kerisik (toasted coconut paste) or substitute with ½ cup unsweetened desiccated coconut toasted in a dry pan 🌱 Aromatics 2 lemongrass stalks (white part only), smashed with the back of a knife 12 kaffir lime leaves, torn slightly to release aroma 🧂 Seasonings 2 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste) Salt, to taste 2 tbsp ready-made tamarind paste 🌶️ Spice Paste 12 shallots 2-inch piece of galangal (substitute with ginger if unavaila...

  🌶️ Pradeep’s Spicy Malaysian Roasted Whole Chicken  A beautifully roasted whole chicken layered with Malaysian spices, rich coconut marinade, and a crispy, charred finish. Serve with rice, refreshing cucumber, and sambal for an authentic meal. 📝 Ingredients 🍗 Chicken Prep 1 whole chicken (1.5–2 kg), cleaned and patted dry 1 tsp salt 1 tsp turmeric powder 2 tbsp vegetable oil 1 lime, for squeezing after roasting 🧄 Marinade Paste 4–5 dried chilies, soaked until soft ( or use chili boh ) 5 fresh red chilies (adjust heat) 6 shallots 6 garlic cloves 2″ ginger 2″ galangal (optional) 1 stalk lemongrass (white part only), thinly sliced 2 tsp ground coriander 2 tsp ground cumin 2 tsp ground fennel 2 tsp paprika 2 tbsp soy sauce 2 tbsp oyster sauce 2 tbsp honey or palm sugar 2 tbsp tamarind paste ¼ cup coconut milk (optional, for richness) 👩‍🍳 Directions 1️⃣ Prep & Dry Brine Make shallow slits in the thickest parts of the chicken (breast & thighs) for bett...