Chicken Bakwan Recipe: A Unique and Delicious Variation of a Classic Dish

Wednesday, July 15, 2026

SAEDNEWS: Bakwan: Indonesia’s Popular Chicken and Vegetable Street Food

Chicken Bakwan Recipe: A Unique and Delicious Variation of a Classic Dish

According to Saednews, Bakwan is a very popular and delicious street food from Indonesia that has a strong resemblance to our traditional kookoo. Made with a combination of chicken, vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. If you are looking for a modern and different meal idea, try this tasty chicken and vegetable bakwan recipe.

Ingredients for Bakwan

  • White cabbage: 500 grams, finely chopped

  • Carrot: 1 medium-sized, finely chopped

  • Green bell pepper: 1, finely chopped

  • Red onion: 1, finely chopped

  • Chopped parsley: 50 grams

  • Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons

  • Eggs: 3

  • Wheat flour: 2 tablespoons

  • Salt and black pepper: As needed

  • Oil for frying: As needed

How to Prepare Chicken Bakwan

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Finely chop the chicken breast using a sharp knife or cleaver and place it in a suitable bowl. Add finely diced bell pepper, red onion, cabbage, and carrot to the chicken and mix well.

Step 2: Make the Batter

Add soy sauce, salt, black pepper, flour, and eggs to the mixture. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly combined and form a uniform mixture.

Step 3: Fry the Bakwan

Heat a small amount of oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat until hot. Using a tablespoon, take around 60 grams of the mixture and place it into the hot oil.

Arrange the fritters with some space between them in the pan. Fry until one side becomes golden, then carefully flip them and cook the other side until crispy and cooked through.

Place the fried bakwan on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Your delicious chicken bakwan is now ready to serve. Enjoy!

Important Tips for Making Perfect Bakwan

  • If you do not have soy sauce at home, you can replace it with diluted pomegranate paste mixed with vinegar or use balsamic vinegar for a similar flavor balance.

  • Many people dislike cabbage because of its strong smell. To remove the cabbage odor, finely chop the cabbage and soak it in ice water for about 15 minutes. Drain it well afterward. This simple method helps eliminate the unpleasant smell and keeps your dish fresh and aromatic.

  • Different types of onions have different uses:

    • Yellow onions are the most common type and are excellent for cooking because they develop a rich flavor when heated.

    • White onions have a milder taste compared to yellow onions and can be eaten raw or used in salads, dips, and Mexican-style dishes.

    • Red onions contain more fiber than white and yellow onions. Their attractive color makes them suitable for garnishing dishes, and they are also great for grilling, salads, and sandwiches. However, they are usually not preferred for cooking because they do not release as much aroma and flavor as other onions.

Chicken Bakwan: A Modern Twist on Traditional Kookoo

This Indonesian-inspired chicken and vegetable fritter is crispy on the outside, flavorful on the inside, and a great choice for a unique homemade meal. It can be served as a snack, appetizer, or a light main dish.