Spicy Balinese Sambal Ayam with Sweet Potato Mash
Savor the bold and aromatic flavors of Bali with this spicy sambal chicken paired perfectly with a velvety sweet potato mash.

Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Marinating the Chicken
- 1
Combine Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with salt and set aside.
- 2
Blend Sambal Paste
In a blender, blend the red chili peppers, shrimp paste, shallots, and garlic into a smooth paste.
Tip: Ensure the shrimp paste is fully dissolved in the sambal to avoid clumps. If you prefer milder heat, remove the seeds from the chili peppers before blending.
- 3
Marinate Chicken
Marinate the chicken with the sambal paste for at least 30 minutes.
Preparing the Sweet Potato Mash
- 1
Boil Sweet Potatoes
Boil the cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 20 minutes.
- 2
Drain and Mash
Drain and mash the sweet potatoes.
- 3
Finish Mash
Stir in the coconut milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
How to Make Spicy Balinese Sambal Ayam with Sweet Potato Mash
Total time: 2 h · Yields 4 servings
- 1
Sautéing the Sambal
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat and add the sambal paste. Cook until fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- 2
Cooking the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and skin is crisp, about 25 minutes.
- 3
Finishing the Mash
Return the mashed sweet potatoes to low heat and stir continuously for a further 5 minutes to heat through.
Chef's Tips
Further reading
Frequently asked questions
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but bone-in will enhance the flavor.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes, reduce the number of chili peppers or remove the seeds for a milder version.
Can sweet potatoes be substituted with regular potatoes?
Yes, regular potatoes can be used for a less sweet and more savory mash.
How do I reheat the leftovers?
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent drying out the chicken.
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