Ayam Penyet
Indonesian • Vegetarian
How to Make Vegetarian Ayam Penyet (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Ayam Penyet is a beloved Indonesian street snack, traditionally featuring crispy smashed chicken served with spicy sambal and a side of fresh vegetables. For IndianCalorie.com, we present a unique vegetarian, health-conscious adaptation: the authentic flavors of Ayam Penyet, but with protein-rich paneer taking center stage. This version is perfect for vegetarians seeking to enjoy Indonesian cuisine while tracking their calories and macronutrients. The dish combines crispy baked paneer, aromatic spices, and a vibrant sambal made with tomatoes, chilies, and garlic. Its taste is a harmonious balance of heat, tang, and umami, reminiscent of Indian chaats but with a Southeast Asian twist. In India, street snacks hold a special place in culinary culture, much like Ayam Penyet in Indonesia. This vegetarian adaptation can be served as a wholesome snack or light meal, pairing beautifully with rotis, brown rice, or even enjoyed standalone. By using minimal oil and baking instead of deep-frying, this recipe keeps calories in check while delivering authentic taste. Whether for a family tea-time treat or as a healthy alternative to fried snacks, this Vegetarian Ayam Penyet brings global flavors to the Indian table.
Ingredients(for 4-5 pieces of paneer penyet with sambal and vegetables)
- 200 grams Paneer (cottage cheese) (cut into thick slices)
- 1/2 cup Whole wheat bread crumbs (for coating)
- 2 tbsp Cornflour (for binding)
- 3 tbsp Low-fat curd (dahi) (for marination)
- 1 tsp Red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Haldi (turmeric powder)
- to taste Salt
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 medium Tomatoes (for sambal)
- 2 Fresh red chilies (for sambal)
- 3 Garlic cloves (for sambal)
- 2 tsp Olive oil (for brushing and sambal)
- 1/2 Cucumber (sliced, for serving)
- 4-5 leaves Cabbage (for serving) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Marinate paneer slices with curd, lemon juice, red chili powder, turmeric, and salt. Let it rest for 10 minutes to absorb flavors.
10 minutes
Ensure even coating for maximum flavor.
- 2
Dip marinated paneer in cornflour, then coat with whole wheat bread crumbs for a crispy texture.
3 minutes
Press gently so crumbs stick well.
- 3
Place paneer pieces on a lined baking tray. Brush lightly with olive oil.
2 minutes
Use a silicone brush for even oil application.
- 4
Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 15 minutes or until golden and crispy. Flip once halfway.
15 minutes
Alternatively, air-fry for a lower-calorie version.
Why This Dish is Healthy
By replacing chicken with paneer and baking instead of frying, this recipe offers a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional Ayam Penyet. It’s rich in protein, supports muscle health, and uses minimal oil. Fresh vegetables add vitamins and hydration, making it ideal for weight loss, diabetes management, and heart health.
This vegetarian Ayam Penyet is high in protein from paneer, while whole wheat crumbs and vegetables add dietary fiber and essential micronutrients like calcium, vitamin C, and potassium. Baking instead of deep-frying reduces saturated fat, making this snack suitable for calorie-conscious individuals. The sambal provides antioxidants from tomatoes and chilies, further enhancing nutritional value.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: For best texture, use fresh, firm paneer.
- 💡Tip 2: Preheat the oven well for even crispiness.
- 💡Tip 3: Use whole wheat crumbs for extra fiber and crunch.
- 💡Tip 4: Serve immediately for optimal taste and texture.
- 💡Tip 5: Adjust sambal spice according to your preference.
Storage & Serving
Keeps for 6-8 hours at room temperature. Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 520.0 kcal |
| Protein | 11.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8.0 g |
| Total Fat | 9.5 g |
| Fiber | 1.2 g |
| Sugars | 1.1 g |
| Iron | 1.1 mg |
| Calcium | 18.0 mg |
| Sodium | 480.0 mg |
| Potassium | 260.0 mg |
| Cholesterol | 55.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 80.0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 7.0 mg |
| Magnesium | 22.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.7 mg |
| Phosphorus | 110.0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.5 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 2.1 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.3 µg |
| Folate | 8.0 µg |
