Chinese cuisine is renowned for its diverse flavors, techniques, and cultural significance. Among the myriad of dishes, steam chicken holds a special place for its simplicity, health benefits, and the ability to retain the natural flavors of the ingredients. This article will guide you through the process of making steam chicken Chinese style, ensuring a delicious and authentic culinary experience.
Ingredients and Preparation
Choosing the Right Chicken
The foundation of a good steamed chicken dish lies in selecting the right chicken. Freshness is paramount. Opt for a whole free-range chicken, as these tend to be more flavorful and have a better texture. If a whole chicken is not available, chicken thighs or breasts can also be used.
Marinade Ingredients
To achieve the distinct flavors of Chinese steamed chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients for the marinade:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds) or 4 chicken thighs/breasts
- 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of Shaoxing wine (Chinese rice wine)
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 2-3 slices of ginger
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 stalks of green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
Preparing the Chicken
1. Clean the Chicken: Rinse the chicken thoroughly under cold water. Remove any residual feathers and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, salt, sugar, ginger, garlic, and green onions. Mix well. Rub this marinade all over the chicken, making sure to coat both the outside and the cavity. For the best results, let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator, or overnight if possible.
Steaming the Chicken
Setting Up the Steamer
To steam the chicken, you will need a steamer setup. This can be a traditional bamboo steamer, a metal steamer insert, or an electric steamer. Ensure that your steamer is large enough to accommodate the chicken comfortably.
1. Boil Water: Fill the bottom of the steamer with water and bring it to a boil. Ensure there is enough water to last for the entire steaming process without drying out.
2. Prepare the Steaming Plate: Place the marinated chicken on a heatproof plate or dish that fits inside the steamer. If you are steaming a whole chicken, position it breast side up.
3. Steaming Process: Once the water is boiling, place the plate with the chicken into the steamer. Cover with a lid and steam for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size of the chicken. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C).
Making the Sauce
Ingredients for the Sauce
The sauce for Chinese steamed chicken is simple yet enhances the dish’s flavor. You will need:
- 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of water
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-2 red chili peppers, finely chopped (optional for heat)
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
Preparing the Sauce
1. Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the light soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and water. Heat gently, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add Garlic and Chili: Add the minced garlic and chili peppers to the sauce. Simmer for a few minutes to infuse the flavors.
3. Finish with Sesame Oil: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the sesame oil.
Serving the Chicken
Plating the Chicken
Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the steamer. Let it rest for a few minutes before cutting. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
1. Chop the Chicken: If using a whole chicken, use a cleaver to chop it into bite-sized pieces. If you used thighs or breasts, slice them into thin pieces.
2. Arrange on a Platter: Arrange the chicken pieces on a serving platter. Drizzle the prepared sauce over the top, ensuring an even distribution.
3. Garnish: Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a burst of color and flavor.
Tips for Perfect Steamed Chicken
Maintaining Moisture
To prevent the chicken from drying out during steaming, make sure to:
- Use a well-fitting lid on your steamer to keep the steam in.
- Check the water level occasionally and add more boiling water if necessary.
Enhancing Flavor
For added depth of flavor, consider stuffing the cavity of the chicken with additional aromatics such as:
- Ginger slices
- Garlic cloves
- Green onion stalks
- Chinese five-spice powder
SEE ALSO: What Are Popular Chinese Foods?
Achieving Even Cooking
To ensure even cooking:
- Make sure the chicken is evenly marinated.
- Use a steamer that allows the steam to circulate freely around the chicken.
Health Benefits of Steamed Chicken
Steamed chicken is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits:
- Low in Fat: Steaming reduces the need for added fats, making it a healthier cooking method.
- Nutrient Retention: Steaming helps retain more nutrients compared to other cooking methods like frying or roasting.
- Digestibility: The gentle cooking process makes steamed chicken easy to digest, which is beneficial for those with digestive issues.
Variations of Chinese Steamed Chicken
Herbal Steamed Chicken
For a medicinal twist, try adding Chinese herbs such as goji berries, red dates, or Chinese yam to the steaming process. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also provide health benefits.
Soy Sauce Chicken
A popular variation involves marinating the chicken in a mixture of dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, sugar, and Chinese spices before steaming. This gives the chicken a rich, caramelized flavor.
Ginger and Scallion Steamed Chicken
For a fresher, lighter flavor, increase the amount of ginger and scallions used in the marinade. This version is particularly popular in southern China.
Serving Suggestions
Accompaniments
Steamed chicken is typically served with steamed white rice, which complements the flavors of the chicken and sauce. You can also serve it with:
- Steamed vegetables such as bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas.
- A side of pickled vegetables to add a tangy contrast.
- Chinese black vinegar for dipping.
Pairing with Soups
Chinese meals often include a soup course. Steamed chicken pairs well with light, clear soups such as:
- Egg drop soup
- Hot and sour soup
- Winter melon soup
Conclusion
Steamed chicken Chinese style is a testament to the elegance of simplicity in Chinese cuisine. By focusing on fresh ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can create a dish that is both nutritious and flavorful. Whether you are a novice cook or an experienced chef, this recipe offers a delightful way to explore the art of Chinese cooking. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and share this delicious dish with family and friends.
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