Nestled in the lush landscapes of Jiangxi province, the culinary treasures of this region reflect not only the diverse ingredients sourced from its many rivers and mountains but also the rich cultural heritage that has evolved over centuries. Among these culinary delights, Shangqing Chestnut Roasted Chicken stands as a testament to the region’s artistry in blending savory flavors with the natural sweetness of local chestnuts.
Ingredients
To create this exquisite dish, you will need the following ingredients:
One whole freerange chicken (approximately 34 pounds)
300g of fresh Shangqing chestnuts (or local chestnuts if not available)
34 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
2 tablespoons of Shaoxing wine
1 tablespoon of sugar
56 slices of ginger
34 stalks of green onion, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
A handful of aromatic herbs (such as star anise and cinnamon stick)
Water or chicken broth, as needed
Preparation
1. Prepping the Chicken: Start by rinsing the chicken under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels, ensuring that it is free of excess moisture. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, both inside and out. Let it marinate for about 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Preparing the Chestnuts: Score the chestnuts by making an “X” on the flat side of each one. This step is crucial as it helps them roast evenly and prevents bursting during cooking. Soak the chestnuts in warm water for about 20 minutes to soften their shells.
3. Creating the Marinade: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the ginger and chopped green onions to the mixture, infusing the marinade with fragrant notes.
4. Marinating the Chicken: Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring even coverage. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for a deeper infusion of flavors.
5. Roasting the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a roasting pan, place the marinated chicken breastside up. Scatter the prepared chestnuts around the chicken. Add the aromatic herbs and enough water or chicken broth to the pan to keep things moist during roasting.
6. Cooking Time: Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, basting it with pan juices every 20 minutes. The chestnuts will absorb the delicious flavors while providing a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
7. Final Touches: Once the chicken is golden brown and the juices run clear when the thigh is pierced, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for about 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, making each bite succulent.
8. Serving: Carve the chicken and present it on a platter alongside the roasted chestnuts. The simplicity of the dish, coupled with the rich flavors, makes for an unforgettable experience that encapsulates the elegance of Jiangxi cuisine.
Delving into the world of Shangqing Chestnut Roasted Chicken opens a window into the heart of Jiangxi’s culinary tradition. Each bite carries the essence of the region, a tapestry woven from nature’s bounty and a profound respect for the art of cooking. As you savor this dish, you will find yourself transported to the majestic mountains and tranquil waters of Jiangxi, where flavors are as rich as the culture itself.