Curry Mee Sourdough Waffles with Crispy Chicken & Gula Melaka Syrup

**Prepare the Sourdough Waffle Batter:** In a large bowl, whisk together the sourdough starter, warm water, flour, and salt. Mix until just combined. Cover and let rest at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, for the flavors to develop and the mixture to become bubbly.

**Incorporate Curry Mee Spices:** Gently fold in the Curry Mee spice paste and coconut milk (if using) into the sourdough batter. Be careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick and fragrant with the aromatic spices.

**Prepare the Fried Chicken:** Cut the chicken thighs into smaller, bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, marinate the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This will tenderize the chicken and help the breading adhere.

**Dredge the Chicken:** In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Dredge each piece of buttermilk-soaked chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.

**Fry the Chicken:** Heat the cooking oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the dredged chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the fryer. Fry for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should be beautifully crispy and have a satisfying crunch.

**Make the Gula Melaka Syrup:** While the chicken is frying, prepare the gula melaka syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the gula melaka and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the gula melaka is melted and the syrup has thickened slightly. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The fragrance of caramel will fill your kitchen.

**Cook the Waffles:** Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer's instructions. Lightly grease the waffle iron with cooking spray or oil. Pour the Curry Mee sourdough batter onto the hot waffle iron, spreading it evenly. Cook until the waffles are golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes per waffle. The steam escaping from the waffle iron will carry the aroma of curry and tangy sourdough.

**Assemble and Serve:** Place the Curry Mee Sourdough Waffles on plates. Top with the crispy fried chicken and drizzle generously with the warm gula melaka syrup. Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.