Hebei cuisine, known for its hearty and flavorful dishes, provides a delightful experience for food lovers. One standout dish is Golden Phoenix Braised Chicken, a dish steeped in tradition and full of savory goodness. This recipe showcases the quintessential elements of Hebei cooking, combining fresh ingredients with rich flavors to create a memorable meal.
Ingredients Needed
For the Golden Phoenix Braised Chicken, gather the following ingredients:
1 whole chicken (about 34 pounds)
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce (light)
2 tablespoons soy sauce (dark)
1 tablespoon rice wine (Shaoxing wine)
2 tablespoons rock sugar (or brown sugar)
34 slices of ginger
34 cloves of garlic, minced
2 star anise pods
1 stick of cinnamon
34 green onions, chopped
2 cups of chicken stock (or water)
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
1. Preparation of the Chicken:
Start by rinsing the chicken under cold water. Remove any excess fat and innards. Pat dry with paper towels. This helps in achieving a crispy skin when cooking.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix the light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, rice wine, and minced garlic. Rub the marinade all over the surface of the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
3. Searing the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or wok over mediumhigh heat. Once hot, carefully add the marinated chicken and sear it on all sides until golden brown. This step adds depth to the flavor and creates a beautiful presentation.
4. Creating the Braising Liquid:
After searing, remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the slices of ginger, rock sugar, star anise, and cinnamon sticks. Stir until the sugar begins to dissolve and the spices release their aroma, approximately 23 minutes.
5. Braising the Chicken:
Return the chicken to the skillet, and add the chicken stock. The liquid should cover about twothirds of the chicken. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer. Allow the chicken to braise for 1 to 1.5 hours, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
6. Final Touches:
Check the chicken for doneness. Once it is tender and the juices run clear, uncover the skillet and raise the heat slightly to reduce the sauce to your desired thickness. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if necessary.
7. Garnishing and Serving:
Once the sauce is thickened, transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Spoon the rich sauce over it and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles, allowing the guests to enjoy the robust flavors that characterize Golden Phoenix Braised Chicken.
Pairing Suggestions
Hebei cuisine pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving stirfried seasonal vegetables, pickled cucumbers, or a light soup to complement the richness of the braised chicken. A chilled glass of Tsingtao beer or a light white wine can also enhance the dining experience.
Golden Phoenix Braised Chicken stands as a delicious testament to Hebei’s culinary heritage, bringing warmth and comfort to any dining table. Embrace this traditional dish and enjoy the array of flavors that Hebei cuisine has to offer!