Dish Showcase: The History Of Ayam Buah Keluak

Ah, Ayam Buah Keluak. If you’re a lover of Southeast Asian cuisine or someone who has dipped their toes into Singapore’s diverse culinary scene, you’re probably nodding knowingly. If not, it’s time to get acquainted with a dish that’s more than just a meal – it’s a testament to Singapore’s rich Peranakan legacy. Steeped in a blend of history, culture, and culinary expertise, Ayam Buah Keluak stands out as an epitome of Singapore’s multicultural fabric.

The Lustrous Journey of Ayam Buah Keluak: A Peranakan Legacy

Ayam Buah Keluak isn’t just a mouthful to pronounce; it’s a tantalising mouthful of culture. This dish, which melds chicken with the intriguingly dark and robust ‘buah keluak’ nut, has its roots firmly planted in the local Peranakan community – a marriage of Chinese settlers and the indigenous Malays from the Malacca Straits.

So, why all the fuss about this dish? It’s that ever-alluring black nut at the heart of the dish, the buah keluak. The fruit of the kepayang tree (known scientifically as the Pangium edele), freshly harvested buah keluak is, in fact, poisonous and fully deadly if consumed without any preparation. Ironically, it’s this perilous nature that makes its eventual transformation into a delicious ingredient all the more impressive. Over centuries of knowledge (and surely trial-and-error), local communities throughout Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia have come up with a way to remove the fruit’s toxins and render this delicious morsel edible.

The process involved boiling, burying, and fermenting the fruit in the earth for over a month. Though time-consuming, what results is a rich and fragrant flavour profile accentuated by mouth-wateringly earthy tones. Such culinary alchemy, where danger is turned into delight, is what gives this dish its legendary status. The allure of the buah keluak is so strong that it’s even been called the ‘Asian truffle’ by some culinary enthusiasts!

From Ingredient to Art: The Makeup of the Dish

Buah keluak features in several dishes native to the region, including nasi rawon, sambal rawon, and of course, Ayam Buah Keluak. As its name suggests, Ayam Buah Keluak comprises ayam (chicken) cooked in a broth or paste containing buah keluak. The dish is known for its rich and savoury aroma, at the heart of which lies a unique interaction of ingredients:

• Chicken: Stewed to tender perfection.
• Buah keluak nuts: Processed, ground into a paste, and sometimes mixed with other spices.
• Tamarind: Juiced to lend its tangy profile to the mix.
• Lemongrass and turmeric leaves: Thrown in and stewed for a fresh aromatic quality.
• Spices: Think shallots, garlic, and red chillies, working in harmony to give the dish its kick.

While the list may seem straightforward, it’s the masterful blend of these components that lend Ayam Buah Keluak its soul-satisfying depth. Every bite transports you to a world of flavours where history, culture, and craftsmanship converge.

Experience Ayam Buah Keluak with Chilli Manis

Now, imagine feasting on this dish, knowing it’s been prepared with utmost authenticity, and has the additional benefit of being halal-certified. Chilli Manis, Singapore’s premium halal buffet catering company, features Ayam Buah Keluak as part of our vibrant Peranakan buffet catering menu. Our commitment? To give our patrons a true taste of Peranakan food catering with the assurance of MUIS halal certification.

Whether you’re hosting a corporate luncheon, an intimate family gathering, or a grand gala, get ready to dive into our wide range of Peranakan buffet options with a touch of tradition. Our halal Peranakan buffet catering ensures that your guests are treated to a culinary journey deeply rooted in Singapore’s rich tapestry of cultures.

Find out more in our FAQs or get in touch with our catering team today to embark on a gastronomic journey like no other. With our diverse offerings, you’re not just choosing a caterer; you’re opting for a time-honoured taste of Singapore itself.