Chicken Rendang, Simpol
Chicken Rendang, SIMPOL! is a easy Indian recipe that serves 2. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by Simpol PH on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 15 min
Cost: $1.02 total, $0.51 per serving
Ingredients
- 4 cloves Garlic (peeled and minced; double the usual amount for extra punch)
- 1 stalk Lemongrass (outer tough layers removed, tender inner part minced)
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Cilantro (chopped finely)
- 1 tablespoon Radish Oil (or any neutral oil such as vegetable or canola oil)
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt (adjust to taste)
- 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 0.25 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes (optional for extra heat)
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients
Peel and mince the garlic cloves. Trim the outer layers of the lemongrass stalk, then finely mince the tender inner part. Chop the cilantro and set aside.
Time: PT5M
Heat Oil
Place the skillet over medium heat and add the radish oil. Allow the oil to shimmer, about 30 seconds.
Time: PT1M
Temperature: Medium heat
Sauté Garlic and Lemongrass
Add the minced garlic and lemongrass to the hot oil. Stir continuously for 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: Medium heat
Add Seasonings
Stir in the chopped cilantro, salt, black pepper, and optional chili flakes. Cook for another 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld.
Time: PT1M
Temperature: Medium heat
Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the stir‑fry to a serving plate and serve immediately with rice or flatbread.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 120
- Protein
- 2 g
- Carbohydrates
- 4 g
- Fat
- 9 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Vegan, Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free
Allergens: Garlic
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Garlic: garlic powder (1 tsp)
- Instead of Lemongrass: lime zest (1 tsp)
- Instead of Fresh Cilantro: fresh parsley (1 tsp)
- Instead of Radish Oil: vegetable oil, canola oil
- Instead of Salt: sea salt, kosher salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: white pepper
- Instead of Red Chili Flakes: fresh chopped chili, cayenne pepper
Equipment Needed
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Skillet or Frying Pan
- Measuring Spoons
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Mince garlic and lemongrass finely to release their flavors quickly.
- Do not over‑cook the garlic; it should stay golden, not brown.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving for extra brightness.
- For a richer flavor, finish with a drizzle of toasted sesame oil.
Troubleshooting
Garlic turned bitter.
Reduce the heat and remove the garlic as soon as it becomes fragrant; avoid letting it brown.
Lemongrass pieces are too large and tough.
Slice the stalk thinly before mincing, or use only the tender inner part.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; texture changes after freezing.
Room temperature: Can sit at room temperature for up to 30 minutes while serving.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Mince garlic and lemongrass up to 24 hours in advance and store in a sealed jar in the refrigerator.
- The stir‑fry can be reheated gently over low heat; add a splash of oil to revive the aroma.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of a garlic lemongrass cilantro stir‑fry in Indian cuisine?
Garlic, lemongrass, and cilantro are staple aromatics in many Indian regional dishes, especially in coastal areas where lemongrass adds a citrusy note. This simple stir‑fry reflects the Indian tradition of quick, flavor‑packed vegetable preparations that can accompany rice or flatbreads.
What are the traditional regional variations of garlic lemongrass dishes in Indian cuisine?
In South Indian coastal states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu, lemongrass is often paired with coconut milk and seafood. In the Northeast, it appears in light vegetable sautés with mustard seeds. The basic aromatics stay the same, but the accompanying ingredients differ by region.
How is a garlic lemongrass cilantro stir‑fry traditionally served in Indian households?
It is typically served hot as a side dish alongside steamed rice, roti, or paratha. In many homes it is enjoyed as a light main course with a side of yogurt or pickles to balance the heat.
What occasions or celebrations is a garlic lemongrass cilantro stir‑fry associated with in Indian culture?
While not tied to a specific festival, quick aromatic stir‑fries like this are common during daily meals, especially on busy weekdays or as part of a larger festive spread where multiple dishes are prepared.
What other Indian dishes pair well with this garlic lemongrass cilantro stir‑fry?
It pairs nicely with dal (lentil soup), paneer tikka, or a simple cucumber raita. For a complete meal, serve it alongside basmati rice and a buttery naan.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making this garlic lemongrass cilantro stir‑fry?
The biggest pitfalls are burning the garlic, which makes the dish bitter, and under‑mincing the lemongrass, which can leave tough fibers. Keep the heat medium and mince aromatics finely for even cooking.
Why does this recipe use radish oil instead of traditional mustard oil?
Radish oil is a neutral‑tasting oil that lets the aromatics shine without adding its own strong flavor. Mustard oil can overpower the delicate lemongrass notes, so a neutral oil is preferred for balance.
Can I make this garlic lemongrass cilantro stir‑fry ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prep the aromatics in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The cooked stir‑fry keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 days; reheat gently on low heat with a splash of oil.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the stir‑fry is done?
The garlic should be golden and fragrant, the lemongrass tender yet still slightly crisp, and the cilantro wilted but still bright green. The dish should look glossy from the oil and have no visible raw garlic pieces.
What does the YouTube channel Simpol PH specialize in?
The YouTube channel Simpol PH focuses on simple, everyday Filipino and Asian-inspired home cooking, offering quick tutorials that emphasize flavor, affordability, and minimal equipment.
How does the YouTube channel Simpol PH's approach to Indian-inspired cooking differ from other Indian cooking channels?
Simpol PH blends Indian flavors with a Filipino home‑cooking mindset, prioritizing speed and pantry‑friendly ingredients, whereas many Indian channels focus on traditional techniques and regional authenticity.
Last updated: September 3, 2026
