Authentic Pepes Ayam from Indonesia — traditional Indonesian main dish with step-by-step cooking instructions

Pepes Ayam: Steamed Chicken in Banana Leaf

★★★★☆4.5
|Editor's rating

Chicken pieces marinated in a turmeric-based spice paste, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed or grilled until tender and fragrant.

🗺️ Origin: Indonesia⏱ Time: 30 mins👥 Servings: 4 servings📊 Difficulty: Medium
📋 Recipe
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Tested by NusantaraEats Kitchen·Last updated: 29 June 2026

📑 In This Guide

🛒 Ingredients👨‍🍳 Instructions FAQ

💡 Did You Know?

This authentic recipe has been passed down through generations, preserving the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine.

🛒 Ingredients

  • 500 g chicken thighs
  • 5 shallots
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 3 cm turmeric
  • 2 cm ginger
  • 2 cm galangal
  • 5 red chilies
  • 3 kaffir lime leaves, shredded
  • Salt and lime juice
  • Banana leaves for wrapping

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Grind shallots, garlic, turmeric, ginger, galangal, and chilies into a paste.
  2. Marinate chicken in spice paste, kaffir lime leaves, salt, and lime juice for 1 hour.
  3. Wrap each piece in banana leaf.
  4. Steam for 30-35 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
  5. Optionally, grill briefly for a smoky touch.
  6. Serve in the banana leaf with steamed rice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pepes Ayam: Steamed Chicken in Banana Leaf?

Chicken pieces marinated in a turmeric-based spice paste, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed or grilled until tender and fragrant.

Where does Pepes Ayam: Steamed Chicken in Banana Leaf come from?

Pepes Ayam: Steamed Chicken in Banana Leaf originates from Indonesia. It is a beloved traditional dish that has been passed down through generations of Indonesian cooks.

Is Pepes Ayam: Steamed Chicken in Banana Leaf difficult to make?

Pepes Ayam: Steamed Chicken in Banana Leaf requires moderate cooking skills. While the steps are clear, some techniques need practice.

How can I adjust the spiciness of Pepes Ayam: Steamed Chicken in Banana Leaf?

The spiciness can be easily adjusted by modifying the amount of chili peppers. For milder versions, reduce or omit the bird's eye chilies (cabe rawit).

How do I store leftover Pepes Ayam: Steamed Chicken in Banana Leaf?

Store leftover Pepes Ayam: Steamed Chicken in Banana Leaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as the spices continue to meld.

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Recipe researched by the NusantaraEats Editorial Team

This recipe has been carefully researched, tested, and documented to preserve authentic Indonesian culinary traditions. Sources include traditional cookbooks, regional culinary experts, and cultural heritage references from Indonesia.

📚 Traditional Indonesian Cookbooks🏛️ Cultural Heritage References👨‍🍳 Regional Culinary Experts
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