Craving a succulent and flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than these incredibly tender soy sauce chicken drumsticks, a Cantonese Siu Mei classic. This recipe delivers the rich, savory umami you expect from traditional Chinese cooking, but without the complicated techniques often associated with it. The beautiful dark brown glaze not only looks stunning, but also speaks volumes about the deeply infused flavors waiting inside. Forget dry, overcooked chicken; this method guarantees perfectly juicy drumsticks, every single time. The balanced blend of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic creates a symphony of taste that will have you licking your fingers clean.
This simple recipe, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, provides a fantastic introduction to the world of Cantonese cuisine. Ready to experience the magic? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and transform humble chicken drumsticks into a culinary masterpiece.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Bowl
- Chopping board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Chicken drumsticks
- Soy sauce
- Sugar
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Scallions
- Cooking oil
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate
- Wash and clean them.
- Combine soy sauce, sugar, ginger, garlic, and scallions. Marinate the chicken drumsticks in this mixture for at least 30 minutes (or longer for better flavor).
Step 2. Sear and Brown
- Add the marinated chicken drumsticks.
- Brown the chicken drumsticks on all sides over medium heat.
Step 3. Simmer to Perfection
- Add enough water to almost cover the chicken. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through (about 30-45 minutes).
Step 4. Serve and Enjoy
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot. You can serve it as is or thicken the sauce for a richer taste.
Read more: Super Easy Fall-Off-Bone Chinese Style Ribs: One-Pot Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce and sugar to your liking. You can also add other aromatics such as star anise or five-spice powder.
- For a glossier finish, you can glaze the chicken with some of the reduced sauce towards the end of cooking.
Nutrition
- Calories: 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbs: 5-10g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
Absolutely! This recipe works equally well with bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. Adjust cooking time slightly as needed; thighs may take a little longer to cook through.
2. How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer the sauce uncovered for a longer period after the chicken is cooked to reduce the liquid and thicken it. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) towards the end of cooking.
3. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this for a slow cooker. Sear the chicken first for better flavor, then transfer to the slow cooker with the sauce. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is very tender.
These soy sauce chicken drumsticks offer a delicious and accessible entry point into the world of Cantonese cooking. With minimal effort, you'll be rewarded with incredibly flavorful and tender chicken that's perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Enjoy the satisfying taste of this classic Siu Mei dish!