Introduction to Thai Chicken Oil Rice
Thai Chicken Oil Rice, known locally as Kao Man Gai, is a culinary gem that beautifully marries fragrant rice with tender poached chicken, all enhanced by a rich, flavorful oil. A staple in Thai street food culture, Kao Man Gai offers a satisfying meal that is both comforting and aromatic.
Ingredients
1. For the Chicken:
1 whole chicken (about 34 lbs)
4 cups chicken broth or water
34 slices of ginger
34 stalks of green onions
Salt to taste
2. For the Rice:
2 cups jasmine rice
2 tablespoons chicken fat (or vegetable oil)
12 cloves garlic, minced
Salt to taste
3. For the Sauce:
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
12 tablespoons chili sauce (optional)
Finely chopped cilantro and green onions for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large pot, bring chicken broth or water to a boil.
Add ginger, green onions, and a pinch of salt.
Carefully lower the whole chicken into the pot. Reduce heat and poach for 3040 minutes or until fully cooked.
Remove the chicken and set aside, reserving the broth for later.
2. Cook the Rice:
Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
In a separate pot, heat chicken fat (or vegetable oil) over medium heat.
Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add the rinsed rice, stirring to coat the grains.
Pour in 3 cups of the reserved chicken broth and season with salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 1520 minutes or until rice is fluffy and cooked through.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and chili sauce (if using) until well combined. Adjust to taste based on your preference for spice and saltiness.
4. Serve:
Slice the poached chicken into portions and arrange it on a plate alongside a mound of fragrant rice.
Drizzle some sauce over the chicken and serve the remaining sauce on the side. Garnish with chopped cilantro and green onions.
Enjoying Kao Man Gai
Kao Man Gai is meant to be savored in its entirety, with the moist chicken complementing the aromatic rice and sauces. Street vendors often serve it accompanied by a bowl of the warm broth for an extra layer of flavor. Whether enjoyed at a bustling market or prepared at home, the unique blend of textures and tastes makes Thai Chicken Oil Rice an unforgettable dish.