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Looking for a unique and delicious way to prepare chicken? Look no further than drunken chicken! This flavorful dish is a popular Chinese dish that is sure to impress your friends and family. Drunken chicken is known for its tender and juicy meat, as well as its rich and aromatic flavor.

The name “drunken chicken” may sound intriguing, but don’t worry – there’s no alcohol involved! The dish gets its name from the cooking method, which involves marinating the chicken in a flavorful mixture before cooking. This marinade not only infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, but also helps to tenderize the meat.

To make drunken chicken, start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and other seasonings. Let the chicken marinate for at least a few hours or overnight, to allow the flavors to fully develop. Once the chicken has marinated, it can be cooked by steaming, poaching, or boiling. Each method will result in tender and delicious chicken, so choose the technique that works best for you.

Once the chicken is cooked, it can be served hot or cold. Some people prefer to serve drunken chicken cold, as a refreshing appetizer or main course during the summer months. Others enjoy serving it hot, alongside rice or noodles, for a satisfying and flavorful meal. No matter how you choose to serve it, drunken chicken is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients for Drunken Chicken Recipe

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To make a delicious and flavorful drunken chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

1. Chicken:

Choose a whole chicken or chicken pieces, approximately 4-5 pounds in total. You can use bone-in or boneless chicken depending on your preference.

2. Shaoxing Wine:

This traditional Chinese rice wine is the key ingredient in a drunken chicken recipe. Use a high-quality Shaoxing wine for the best flavor.

3. Ginger:

Fresh ginger adds a subtle spiciness and aroma to the dish. Peel and slice a piece of ginger to infuse the chicken with its flavors.

4. Green Onions:

Green onions, also known as scallions, are used to add a mild onion flavor to the chicken. Slice them into small pieces and use both the white and green parts.

5. Soy Sauce:

A dash of soy sauce will enhance the umami flavors of the chicken and make it more savory.

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6. Sesame Oil:

A small amount of sesame oil adds a nutty and aromatic touch to the dish. Be careful not to use too much, as it can overpower the other flavors.

7. Salt and Pepper:

Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.

Note: You can also add additional ingredients such as star anise, Sichuan peppercorns, or chili peppers to add more complexity to the flavor. These spices are optional but can elevate the dish.

With these ingredients, you are ready to start cooking a delicious drunken chicken. Let’s move on to the next steps!

Whole Chicken

Before you start cooking drunken chicken, it’s important to choose the right whole chicken for the recipe. A good quality chicken will ensure better flavor and texture in the final dish. Here are a few tips for selecting the perfect whole chicken:

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1. Size Matters

When it comes to choosing a whole chicken, size does matter. If you prefer larger portions, go for a bigger chicken. However, if you prefer smaller portions or have a smaller oven, a smaller chicken would be a better choice. Aim for a chicken that weighs around 3-4 pounds for a balanced serving size.

2. Freshness

The freshness of the chicken is crucial for the taste and quality of your drunken chicken. Look for chicken that is labeled as “fresh” or “never frozen.” Check the packaging or ask your butcher for information on when the chicken was processed.

It’s also important to check for any signs of spoilage such as an off-smell or slimy texture. If the chicken doesn’t look or smell fresh, it’s best to choose another one.

Additionally, you can opt for organic or free-range chicken for a more ethical and sustainable option.

3. Skin and Fat

The skin of the chicken should be smooth, dry, and evenly colored. Avoid chicken with bruised or discolored skin. The skin should also be intact without any tears or cuts as this can affect the cooking process and overall presentation of the dish.

Some fat is desirable as it adds flavor and prevents the chicken from drying out during cooking. Look for a chicken with a thin layer of fat under the skin, but not too much as it can make the dish greasy.

Remember to remove any giblets or other organs from the cavity of the chicken before cooking.

By following these tips, you can choose the perfect whole chicken for your drunken chicken recipe and ensure a delicious and satisfying meal.

Dark Soy Sauce

Dark soy sauce is a key ingredient in the traditional drunken chicken recipe. It is a thick, rich, and dark-colored sauce made from soybeans, wheat, and sometimes caramel color or molasses. It has a deeper flavor and a more intense aroma compared to regular soy sauce.

Dark soy sauce adds a savory and umami taste to the dish, giving it a unique and distinctive flavor. It also provides a deep reddish-brown color to the chicken, making it visually appealing.

When using dark soy sauce in the drunken chicken recipe, it is important to use it in moderation to avoid overpowering the other flavors. A small amount goes a long way in enhancing the taste and appearance of the dish.

Overall, dark soy sauce adds depth, flavor, and color to the drunken chicken recipe, making it a must-have ingredient for an authentic and delicious dish.

Rice Wine

Rice wine is a key ingredient in the recipe for drunken chicken. It is a type of wine made from fermented rice, and it adds a unique flavor to the dish. Rice wine is commonly used in Asian cooking and is known for its slightly sweet and tangy taste.

To make rice wine, you will need glutinous rice, yeast, and water. First, soak the rice in water for a few hours, then steam it until it is cooked and soft. Next, mix the cooked rice with yeast and water, and allow it to ferment for several days. The fermentation process converts the starch in the rice into alcohol, creating rice wine.

Rice wine is often used in marinades and sauces for meat and poultry dishes. It helps to tenderize the meat and adds flavor to the dish. In the case of drunken chicken, the chicken is marinated in a mixture of rice wine, soy sauce, ginger, and other seasonings. The alcohol in the rice wine infuses the chicken with a unique taste and helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Types of Rice Wine

There are several types of rice wine available, such as Shaoxing wine from China and sake from Japan. Shaoxing wine is a popular choice for cooking, as it has a rich flavor and aroma. Sake, on the other hand, is often used in Japanese cuisine and has a lighter and cleaner taste.

Substitutes for Rice Wine

If you don’t have rice wine on hand, there are a few substitutes you can use. Dry sherry, mirin, and white wine are all suitable alternatives. Keep in mind that the flavor profile may be slightly different, so adjust the amount according to your taste.

In conclusion, rice wine is an essential ingredient in the recipe for drunken chicken. It adds a unique flavor to the dish and helps to tenderize the chicken. There are several types of rice wine available, and if you don’t have it on hand, you can use alternatives such as dry sherry or mirin.

Ginger and Garlic

One of the key ingredients in making drunken chicken is ginger and garlic. Ginger adds a warm and aromatic flavor while garlic brings a pungent and savory taste to the dish.

To include ginger in your recipe, start by peeling the skin off a fresh ginger root. Then, finely chop or grate the ginger to release its flavors. You can also slice the ginger into thin strips for a stronger taste. Ginger can be added directly to the boiling water or alcohol mixture in which the chicken will be cooked.

Similarly, garlic can be peeled and crushed or minced before adding to the dish. Crushed garlic gives a bolder flavor, while minced garlic distributes the taste more evenly. Garlic can be added to the pot along with the ginger to infuse the chicken with its distinct taste.

Both ginger and garlic not only enhance the overall flavor of the drunken chicken, but they also contribute to its health benefits. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, while garlic has antimicrobial and immune-boosting effects.

Remember to use a strong yet balanced combination of ginger and garlic to bring out the best flavors in your drunken chicken. Enjoy!

Green Onions

Green onions, also known as scallions or spring onions, are a versatile ingredient that adds a fresh and mild onion flavor to dishes. They are commonly used in Asian cuisine and can be used in a variety of ways, including as a garnish, in soups, stir-fries, and salads.

Selection and Storage

When selecting green onions, look for ones that have crisp green tops and firm white bottoms. Avoid any that are wilted or have yellowing leaves. To store green onions, trim off the root end and wrap them in a damp paper towel. Place them in a plastic bag and refrigerate for up to a week.

Preparation

Before using green onions, wash them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Trim off the root and any wilted parts. The entire green onion, including the green tops, can be used in recipes.

Green onions add a burst of freshness and color to any dish. Their mild flavor pairs well with a variety of ingredients, making them a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire.

FAQ

What is drunken chicken?

Drunken chicken is a popular Chinese dish made by poaching chicken in a flavorful mixture of alcohol, such as Chinese rice wine or Shaoxing wine, along with aromatics like ginger and green onions.

How do you cook drunken chicken?

To cook drunken chicken, start by placing chicken pieces in a pot and adding water, Chinese rice wine, ginger, green onions, and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked through. Finally, remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool before slicing and serving.

What type of alcohol is used in drunken chicken?

Traditionally, Chinese rice wine or Shaoxing wine is used to make drunken chicken. However, if you can’t find these types of alcohol, you can substitute them with other rice wines or even white wine.

Can I use chicken breast to make drunken chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breast to make drunken chicken. However, keep in mind that chicken breast tends to be drier than other cuts of chicken, so you may need to adjust the cooking time to prevent it from becoming overcooked and too dry.

Is drunken chicken a healthy dish?

While drunken chicken can be a delicious and flavorful dish, it’s important to note that it is typically high in sodium due to the use of soy sauce and other seasonings. If you’re watching your sodium intake, you may want to reduce the amount of soy sauce or use a low-sodium version. Additionally, the dish is relatively low in fat since it is poached rather than fried or sautéed.