Looking for a healthy and flavorful dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this recipe for Steamed Chicken with Lotus Seeds! This elegant yet simple recipe offers a delightful combination of tender chicken, subtly sweet lotus seeds, and aromatic herbs, creating a balanced and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The delicate steaming method preserves the natural juices of the chicken, resulting in incredibly moist and flavorful meat. This dish is also incredibly versatile; feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking.
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy, packed with protein and offering a lighter alternative to fried or heavily sauced chicken dishes. The lotus seeds add a unique textural element and a touch of sweetness that complements the savory chicken beautifully. Ready to create this culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to prepare this exquisite Steamed Chicken with Lotus Seeds.
Tools Needed
- Steamer
- Pot
- String
- Knife
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 kg
- Chinese Dates: 50g
- Fresh Lotus Seeds: 200g
- Shiitake Mushrooms: 30g (soaked until soft)
- Onions
- Green Pepper
- Salt
- White Wine
- Seasoning: 2 teaspoons
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Chicken
- Clean the chicken thoroughly. Weigh it to ensure it's 1kg.
- Marinate the chicken with salt, white wine, seasoning, sugar, and pepper. Rub the marinade evenly inside and out. Let it sit for 12-15 minutes.
- Stuff the chicken cavity with green onion roots, shiitake mushrooms, lotus seeds, and Chinese dates. Pack it firmly.
- Tie the chicken legs together with string to prevent the filling from falling out.
Step 2. Steam the Chicken
- Place the chicken in a steamer tray. If using, place a lotus leaf underneath. Add remaining lotus seeds, dates, mushrooms, and onions to the steamer.
- Steam the chicken for 30-45 minutes, adding water as needed to maintain moisture. Check for doneness by piercing the thickest part of the thigh; if no red blood comes out, it’s done.
Step 3. Rest and Serve
- Remove the chicken from the steamer and let it rest.
- Serve and enjoy!
Read more: Quick & Easy Dry Chicken Noodle Pho Recipe
Tips
- Using a lotus leaf adds aroma. If unavailable, a regular pot works fine.
- Cooking time depends on the chicken's size; adjust accordingly.
- A flavorful dipping sauce complements this dish.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 1500-1800
- Fat: 60-80g
- Carbs: 70-90g
- Protein: 150-170g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of seeds instead of lotus seeds?
Yes! You can experiment with other seeds like pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds, but the texture and subtle sweetness will be different.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small piece of fresh chili to the chicken before steaming. You can also add a drizzle of chili oil after cooking.
This Steamed Chicken with Lotus Seeds recipe offers a healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly simple meal that's perfect for any occasion. The delicate balance of flavors and textures will leave you wanting more, and the ease of preparation makes it an ideal weeknight dinner solution. Enjoy this delightful dish and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills!