Steamed chicken with sugarcane offers a surprisingly delicious and healthy twist on traditional chicken recipes. This simple yet elegant dish showcases the natural sweetness of sugarcane, subtly infusing the chicken with a unique, caramelized flavor. Forget greasy frying or complicated marinades; this recipe prioritizes fresh, minimal ingredients to highlight the succulent texture of the chicken. The result is a tender, juicy bird with a hint of sweetness that's perfect for a light lunch, a healthy dinner, or even a sophisticated appetizer.
The fragrant steam infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, creating a dish that's both comforting and exciting. Ready to experience this culinary delight? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step process to prepare this mouthwatering Steamed Chicken with Sugarcane recipe.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Bowl
- Chopsticks
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 kg
- Water: 400 ml
- Onion: 1
- Scallions: 2 stalks
- Sugarcane Juice: 8 tablespoons
- Seasoning Powder: 1 tablespoon
- MSG: 1/2 teaspoon
- Fish Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Shrimp Paste: 1 tablespoon
- Lemon: null
- Salt: null
- Turmeric Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Cooking Oil: 1 tablespoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate the Chicken
- Clean and wash the chicken thoroughly. Remove odor by rubbing with lemon and salt, then rinse and drain.
- In a bowl, mix sugarcane juice, seasoning powder, MSG, fish sauce, and shrimp paste. Add the marinade to the chicken, ensuring even coverage, both inside and out. Marinate for 30 minutes.
Step 2. Prepare for Steaming
- Peel and slice the onion thickly. Prepare the scallions.
- Line the bottom of a pot with onion slices. Place the marinated chicken on top, ensuring it doesn't touch the bottom or lid. Add the remaining marinade to the pot. Cover and steam over medium heat for 3 minutes, then reduce heat slightly.
Step 3. Steam the Chicken and Add Turmeric
- In a small bowl, combine turmeric powder and cooking oil. Stir well.
- After 20 minutes of steaming, open the lid slightly to release steam. Brush the chicken evenly with the turmeric mixture. Repeat the brushing process after another 3 minutes of steaming. Adjust steaming time based on chicken size and age (40-60 minutes total).
Step 4. Check for Doneness
- Once the steaming time is complete, turn off the heat and use chopsticks to check if the chicken is cooked through. The juices should run clear.
Read more: Vietnamese Chicken Stew (Ca Ri Ga): A Flavorful Comfort Dish
Tips
- Using a younger chicken will result in a more tender final product.
- Adding short pieces of sugarcane to the chicken’s belly enhances the aroma during steaming.
- The onion layer at the bottom of the pot protects the chicken and adds flavor.
- Don't worry about the turmeric mixture evaporating; the moisture from the ingredients will keep the chicken moist.
- Serve with a dipping sauce of your choice; a sweet and sour sauce is suggested.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of sugar besides sugarcane?
While sugarcane provides a unique flavor, you can substitute with brown sugar or even a touch of honey for a similar caramelized effect. However, the flavor profile will differ slightly.
2. How long can I store leftover steamed chicken with sugarcane?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
3. What can I serve with steamed chicken with sugarcane?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple green salad. Consider a light dipping sauce like soy sauce or a ginger-scallion sauce for extra flavor.
This simple recipe for steamed chicken with sugarcane delivers a surprisingly complex and flavorful dish with minimal effort. Enjoy the tender, juicy chicken infused with the subtle sweetness of the sugarcane—a perfect balance of healthy and delicious. We hope you savor every bite!