RecipesIndonesiaSate Madura (Madurese Chicken Satay)

Sate Madura (Madurese Chicken Satay)

Sate Madura is one of Indonesia's most beloved street food dishes, featuring tender, marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection and served with a rich, savory peanut sauce. This recipe focuses on the classic Madurese style.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time10-15 minutes
Total Time2 hours 30 minutes (including marinating)
Servings6
DifficultyMedium

🧂 Ingredients

  • 800 g Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 200 g Peanuts
  • 6 tbsp Kecap manis (Indonesian sweet soy sauce)(divided, for marinade and sauce)
  • 6 medium Shallots
  • 4 cloves Garlic
  • 1 tsp Coriander seeds
  • 1/2 tsp Cumin seeds
  • 1 cm piece Galangal
  • 1 tbsp Lime juice
  • 200-250 ml Water(for sauce)
  • to taste Salt
  • 1 tsp Sugar(optional, if peanuts are not sweet enough)
  • approx. 20-25 Bamboo skewers
  • for serving Lontong or steamed rice cakes
  • for garnish Fried shallots(optional)
  • to taste Chili

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Prepare the chicken marinade: In a bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of kecap manis, the grated galangal, and a pinch of salt. Add the cubed chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.

    ⏱️ 2 hours (minimum)
  2. 2

    Prepare the peanut sauce: In a food processor or blender, combine the roasted peanuts, chopped shallots, garlic, toasted coriander seeds, and toasted cumin seeds. Process until finely ground. Add 3 tablespoons of kecap manis, lime juice, and about 100 ml of water. Blend until a smooth paste forms. Transfer to a saucepan. Add the remaining water (100-150 ml) gradually, stirring, until the sauce reaches a thick but pourable consistency, similar to heavy cream. Season with salt and sugar (if using) to taste. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, for about 10-15 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld. Do not boil vigorously. Set aside.

    ⏱️ 15 minutes
  3. 3

    Assemble the skewers: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked bamboo skewers. Aim for 3-4 pieces of chicken per skewer, ensuring they are not packed too tightly to allow for even cooking.

    ⏱️ 10 minutes
  4. 4

    Grill the satay: Preheat your grill (charcoal grill is traditional and recommended for authentic flavor) to medium-high heat. The grill temperature should be around 200-230°C (400-450°F). Grill the chicken skewers for about 4-6 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice char marks. Baste with any remaining marinade or a little extra kecap manis during the last few minutes of grilling for extra glaze and flavor.

    ⏱️ 10-15 minutes
  5. 5

    Serve: Arrange the grilled Sate Madura on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the prepared peanut sauce. Garnish with fried shallots and chopped chili if desired. Serve immediately with lontong or steamed rice cakes.

    ⏱️ 5 minutes

💡 Pro Tips

  • Using a charcoal grill imparts a distinct smoky flavor that is essential for authentic Sate Madura.
  • Ensure your bamboo skewers are soaked to prevent them from burning on the grill.
  • The quality of kecap manis significantly impacts the final flavor; use a good brand.
  • Adjust the consistency of the peanut sauce by adding more or less water as needed.
  • For a spicier sauce, add some fresh red chilies to the peanut sauce mixture during blending.

🔄 Variations

  • Sate Ayam: General chicken satay, which can vary in preparation.
  • Sate Kambing: Satay made with goat meat, often marinated differently.
  • Sate Padang: A different style of satay from West Sumatra with a distinct yellow sauce.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving

Caloriesapprox. 450-500 per serving (excluding rice cakes)
Protein35g
Carbs25g
Fat28g
Fiber4g

🏷️ Tags

Sate Madura (Madurese Chicken Satay) Recipe - Indonesia | world.food