How to Make Saus Jagung: An Easy Indonesian Corn Sauce Recipe

Saus Jagung, a creamy and savory Indonesian corn sauce, is a delightful accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Imagine a symphony of flavors – the sweetness of corn mingling with the aromatic warmth of spices, all brought together in a creamy, luscious sauce. Intrigued? Let’s embark on a culinary adventure and learn how to recreate this Indonesian delight in your own kitchen!

A Taste of Indonesia: Why You’ll Love Saus Jagung

In Indonesia, Saus Jagung, often called “Saus Jagung Manis” (sweet corn sauce), is a beloved condiment. It’s incredibly versatile, adding a burst of flavor to grilled meats, seafood, vegetables, and even fried snacks. The combination of sweet corn, savory spices, and creamy texture is simply irresistible.

Gathering Your Ingredients: A Trip to the Market

For this culinary adventure, you’ll need a few simple ingredients, easily found at most grocery stores.

Main Ingredients

• Sweet corn: 2 cups, fresh or frozen kernels work well. If using fresh corn, grilling the cobs for a few minutes before removing the kernels adds a lovely smoky depth to the sauce.
• Shallots: 3 medium-sized shallots, finely chopped. Shallots provide a milder, sweeter onion flavor that complements the corn beautifully.
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Garlic adds a pungent kick to the sauce.
• Large red chili: 1, finely chopped (or more, to taste). Adjust the amount of chili according to your spice preference.
• Ground coriander: 1 teaspoon. This spice adds a warm, citrusy note to the sauce.
• Ground cumin: ½ teaspoon. Cumin provides an earthy, slightly bitter counterpoint to the other flavors.
• Coconut milk: 1 can (13.5 oz). Full-fat coconut milk yields the creamiest, richest sauce.
• Water: ½ cup

Seasoning and Garnish

• Salt: To taste
• Sugar: To taste
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped, for garnish

Tools of the Trade

• Large skillet: For sautéing the aromatics and simmering the sauce.
• Cutting board: For prepping your ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping a breeze.
• Blender or food processor: For blending the sauce to a smooth consistency.
• Serving bowl: Choose a bowl that complements your culinary masterpiece.

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a tablespoon of oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and sauté until softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Spice It Up: Add the chopped chili, ground coriander, and ground cumin to the skillet. Cook for a minute, stirring constantly, to release the fragrant oils from the spices.
3. Corn Delight: Add the corn kernels to the skillet and cook for a few minutes until they soften slightly and brighten in color.
4. Creamy Coconut: Pour in the coconut milk and water. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Simmer and Blend: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Then, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth and creamy.
6. Season and Serve: Pour the blended sauce back into the skillet and warm it gently. Season with salt and sugar to taste. Remember, tasting is key to achieving your desired balance of sweet, savory, and spicy!

Saus Jagung Secrets: Tips and Tricks from the Kitchen

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili to your liking. For a milder sauce, start with half a chili and gradually add more. If you prefer a fiery kick, feel free to add more!
• Coconut Milk Choice: While full-fat coconut milk provides the richest flavor, you can use light coconut milk for a lower-calorie version.
• Fresh vs. Frozen Corn: Both fresh and frozen corn work well in this recipe. If using frozen corn, there’s no need to thaw it before adding it to the skillet.
• Flavor Variations: Get creative! Add a squeeze of lime juice for a touch of tanginess, or incorporate a pinch of turmeric for added warmth and a vibrant golden hue.

Presenting Your Saus Jagung: A Feast for the Eyes

Serve your freshly made Saus Jagung warm. Here are a few ideas:

• Simple Elegance: Pour the sauce into a small serving bowl and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.
• Rustic Charm: Ladle the Saus Jagung into individual ramekins for a charming presentation.
• Artistic Flair: Drizzle the sauce over your main dish, creating an appetizing work of art.

Indonesian Corn Sauce in a bowl

What to Eat with Saus Jagung: A World of Possibilities

Saus Jagung pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes, adding a burst of Indonesian flavor to your meals.

• Grilled Delights: It’s delicious with grilled chicken, fish, shrimp, or tofu. The sweetness of the sauce complements the smoky flavors of the grill perfectly.
• Vegetable Medley: Drizzle it over steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans for an extra layer of flavor.
• Indonesian Feast: Serve it alongside traditional Indonesian dishes like Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Satay (grilled skewers), or Gado-Gado (Indonesian salad with peanut sauce) for an authentic culinary experience.

FAQs: Answering Your Saus Jagung Questions

Can I make Saus Jagung ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

What if I don’t have a blender or food processor?

No worries! You can still achieve a delicious sauce. After simmering the ingredients, use a potato masher or the back of a fork to partially mash the corn, leaving some texture in the sauce.

Can I freeze Saus Jagung?

Yes, you can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it gently before serving.

Grilled Chicken with Indonesian Corn Sauce

Saus Jagung: A Taste of Indonesian Cuisine

This Saus Jagung recipe is your passport to exploring the vibrant flavors of Indonesian cuisine. It’s a testament to the fact that even with simple ingredients, you can create a sauce that’s bursting with taste and culinary artistry. So why not try making this easy and delicious Saus Jagung? It’s sure to become a new favorite in your home!

We’d love to hear about your culinary adventures! Share your experience making Saus Jagung, your favorite ways to enjoy it, and any creative variations you come up with in the comments below. Happy cooking!