Chinese steamed chicken, or zheng ji, is a culinary masterpiece showcasing the delicate balance of flavors and textures inherent in Chinese cuisine. Simplicity is key; the focus is on letting the high-quality ingredients shine, highlighting the natural sweetness of the chicken enhanced by fragrant aromatics. This seemingly effortless dish requires careful attention to detail, from selecting the perfect chicken to mastering the steaming technique, resulting in succulent, tender meat infused with subtle, yet powerful, flavors. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy preparation times; this dish is surprisingly accessible even for novice cooks.
This recipe offers a straightforward approach to creating this classic dish, ensuring you achieve perfectly steamed chicken every time. Ready to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the beauty of simplicity and the exquisite taste of authentic Chinese cuisine? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create your own unforgettable Chinese steamed chicken.
Tools Needed
- Pot
Ingredients
- Chicken
- Cilantro
- Ginger
- Green onions
- Garlic
- Onions
- Shaoxing wine
- Salt: 2 spoons
- Soy sauce: 3 spoons
- Water
- Sugar: 1 spoonful
- Sesame oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Aromatic Broth and Poach the Chicken
- Prepare enough water to submerge the chicken. Add cilantro, green onions (discard rotten parts), and ginger.
- Add Shaoxing wine and salt.
- Boil for 25 minutes, then flip the chicken and let it cook for another hour.
- Add a little water if needed during cooking.
Step 2. Prepare the Sauce and Shred the Chicken
- Mince some ginger.
- In a separate bowl, combine soy sauce, minced garlic (if using), water or broth, sugar, and sesame oil.
- Once the chicken has cooled, shred or cut it into pieces.
Step 3. Combine and Simmer (Optional)
- Add the chicken to the prepared sauce, mix well. If desired, simmer briefly to heat through.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve and enjoy!
Read more: Easy Steamed Tofu with Shallot Sauce Recipe - Vegan Delight
Tips
- If you struggle to find fresh herbs, purchase them online.
- You don't need to boil the chicken vigorously; a gentle simmer is sufficient.
- For a richer broth, include fatty chicken parts like tail fat and neck fat.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 5-10g
- Protein: 25-35g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It's best to use fresh chicken for optimal texture and flavor. Frozen chicken can result in drier meat.
2. How long should I steam the chicken for?
The steaming time depends on the size of your chicken. Generally, a whole chicken will take 45-60 minutes, while smaller pieces will need less time. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
3. What can I do with leftover steamed chicken?
Leftover steamed chicken is delicious in salads, noodle soups, or shredded and used as a filling for dumplings or rice bowls.
This simple yet elegant Chinese steamed chicken recipe is a testament to the power of fresh ingredients and precise cooking techniques. Enjoy the succulent, flavorful result – a dish perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Now go forth and create your own unforgettable culinary journey!