Have You Tried This Classic Ayam Masak Merah Yet?

Bold, comforting, and unmistakably familiar, Ayam Masak Merah is one of those dishes that instantly brings a meal together. Rich tomato gravy, aromatic spices, and tender chicken make this a staple across many Southeast Asian households. It is hearty without being heavy, and flavourful without being complicated.

This version keeps things practical and budget-friendly, perfect for weeknight cooking while still delivering that classic red sauce everyone loves.

Why Makes Ayam Masak Merah So Satisfying

Ayam Masak Merah is all about balance. The sweetness from onions and tomatoes meets gentle heat from chilli paste, while ginger and garlic add depth to the sauce. Lightly frying the chicken first locks in flavour and gives the gravy something to cling to.

It is a dish that tastes even better after simmering, making it ideal when you want something comforting and dependable on the table.

Ingredients You'll Need

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.

Fresh

• 500 g boneless chicken legs

• 1 large onion

• 5 cloves garlic

• 1.5 inch ginger

• 1 tbsp tomato puree

Pantry Staples

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp MSG

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 1 tbsp turmeric powder and salt (for coating the chicken)

• 150 ml oil

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to build a rich, well-balanced sauce.

1. Coat the boneless chicken with turmeric powder and salt. Mix well and set aside.

2. Heat oil in a pan and fry the chicken, skin side first, until partially cooked. Remove and set aside.

3. Blend the ginger, onion, and garlic into a semi-fine paste.

4. Using the same pan and oil, fry the blended paste until fragrant and translucent.

5. Add the blended chilli paste or sambal and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the tomato puree.

6. Continue stirring for about 5 minutes, then add salt, sugar, and MSG. Mix well until the sauce thickens slightly.

7. Return the fried chicken to the pan. Let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and coated in sauce.

8. Remove from heat and serve hot with rice.

Serving Suggestions

Ayam Masak Merah pairs best with steamed white rice, allowing the rich sauce to shine. For a complete meal, serve it alongside simple vegetables or a light cucumber salad to balance the flavours.

Tips to Make It Better

• Sauce Control: Simmer gently to prevent the sauce from drying out or splitting.

  
  

• Heat Level: Adjust the amount of chilli paste based on your spice tolerance.

  
  

• Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavours deepen.

• Storage: Keep leftovers refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheat gently.

A Reliable Classic for Any Day

With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, it delivers a meal that feels generous, comforting, and deeply satisfying.

Whether it is for a casual family dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe is one you will keep reaching for.

Happy cooking!