Sedap Giler Buttermilk Delight: A Creamy, Spicy Sensation
Tender pieces coated in a rich, savory buttermilk sauce with a spicy kick.
By Janelle
Updated: January 18, 2026
Why I Love This Recipe
Buttermilk dishes hold a special place in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly in Malaysia. This recipe, often referred to as "Sedap Giler" (meaning incredibly delicious), elevates the classic by combining the tangy richness of buttermilk with aromatic spices and the subtle heat of chilies. It's a dish that balances comfort and excitement, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
- •Velvety Texture - The buttermilk creates a luscious, creamy sauce that clings beautifully to each piece.
- •Aromatic Spice Symphony - Curry leaves and garlic infuse the dish with a fragrant, savory aroma.
- •Balanced Heat - Red chilies provide a pleasant warmth that complements the richness of the buttermilk.
- •Quick and Easy - Ready in under an hour, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- •Unique Flavor Profile - The combination of tangy, creamy, and spicy notes creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here's what you'll need – nothing too fancy, just good ingredients that work together beautifully.
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 cup Buttermilk
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 0.5 cup All-purpose flour
- 0.25 cup Cornstarch
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 2-3 Red chilies (sliced, adjust to taste)
- 15-20 Curry leaves
- 4 tbsp Butter (unsalted)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
In a bowl, marinate the pieces with buttermilk, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is well coated. This tenderizes the pieces and infuses them with flavor. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour in the refrigerator.
~15 min
Tip: For a richer flavor, marinate the pieces overnight. - 2
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and cornstarch. This mixture will create a light and crispy coating. The cornstarch helps to achieve a desirable golden-brown color when fried. Whisk together thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
~2 min
- 3
Remove the pieces from the buttermilk marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Shake off any excess flour to prevent a clumpy texture.
~5 min
- 4
- 5
Add the dredged pieces to the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the pan and result in steaming instead of frying. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
~10 min
Tip: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. - 6
Remove the pieces from the skillet and set aside on a wire rack to drain excess oil. This helps maintain their crispy texture. While the pieces rest, prepare the buttermilk sauce.
~2 min
- 7
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. This butter will form the base of the flavorful buttermilk sauce. Ensure the skillet is clean of any burnt bits from the previous frying.
~1 min
- 8
Add the minced garlic and sliced red chilies to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. The aroma of garlic and chilies will fill your kitchen.
~1 min
- 9
Add the curry leaves to the skillet and sauté for another 30 seconds, until they release their aromatic oils. The curry leaves will crisp up slightly, adding another layer of flavor. Their distinctive fragrance is key to this dish.
~1 min
- 10
Pour the remaining buttermilk into the skillet and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. The buttermilk will thicken slightly as it simmers. Continue stirring to prevent scorching.
~3 min
- 11
Return the fried pieces to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly with the buttermilk sauce. Ensure each piece is well-covered in the creamy, flavorful sauce. Simmer for another minute or two to allow the flavors to meld together.
~2 min
- 12
Serve immediately over rice or noodles, garnished with extra curry leaves or red chilies if desired. Enjoy the creamy, spicy, and aromatic flavors of this Sedap Giler buttermilk delight! The dish is best enjoyed hot.
~1 min
How Do I Know It's Ready?
The pieces should be golden brown and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The sauce should be thickened and creamy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can, but chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor. If using breast, reduce the cooking time slightly to prevent them from drying out.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this Sedap Giler Buttermilk Delight: A Creamy, Spicy Sensation as much as I do! It's a wonderful dish that's sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. If you try this recipe, I'd love to hear how it turned out – feel free to share your experience and any variations you tried!