Southeast Asian Style Chicken Rice

Posted by myfab5 October 21, 2023
Southeast Asian Style Chicken Rice

Background and History

Southeast Asian Chicken Rice is a beloved dish in the region, known for its simple yet flavorful preparation. It’s believed to have originated in Hainan, China, and then spread to different parts of Southeast Asia, each adding its unique twist. This dish traditionally features poached chicken served with fragrant rice, accompanied by dipping sauces, and often garnished with cucumber.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
  • 2 cups of jasmine rice
  • 2 stalks of lemongrass, smashed
  • 3 slices of ginger
  • 4-5 cloves of garlic, crushed
  • Salt, to taste
  • Cucumber slices, for garnish
  • Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
  • Soy sauce and chili sauce, for dipping

Serves: 4-6

Time: 1 hour

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Instructions

  • Rinse the chicken inside and out. In a large pot, add enough water to submerge the chicken. Add lemongrass, ginger, and half of the crushed garlic. Bring to a boil.
  • Gently lower the chicken into the pot, breast side down. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover. Poach for about 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Check by piercing the thickest part of the thigh – the juices should run clear.
  • Remove the chicken and place it in an ice bath to cool and stop the cooking process. Once cooled, rub the skin with a little salt.
  • In a separate pot, cook the jasmine rice with the remaining garlic and a bit of ginger until it’s fragrant and lightly toasted. Cook the rice according to the package instructions.
  • To serve, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Arrange cucumber slices and cilantro leaves on a plate. Serve the chicken on top of the cucumber and garnish with more cilantro.
  • Serve with soy sauce and chili sauce on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g

Notes

  • You can use the chicken broth from poaching to make a soup or save it for cooking the rice for added flavor.
  • Adjust the cooking time for the chicken based on its size. A meat thermometer is handy to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Allergy Warning

This dish contains soy (soy sauce) and gluten (soy sauce). Be cautious if you have allergies to these ingredients.

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