Barbecued Chicken with Sweet Vinegar Sauce

Thai Barbecued Chicken with Sweet Vinegar Sauce Recipe

Region / culture: Thailand | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Barbecued Chicken with Sweet Vinegar Sauce is a delightful recipe that combines the rich flavors of grilled chicken with the tangy sweetness of a unique vinegar sauce. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate a balance of savory and sweet, with a hint of spice. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible to cooks of all levels, and is sure to impress at any gathering or family meal.

History

The origins of Barbecued Chicken with Sweet Vinegar Sauce can be traced back to Southeast Asian cuisine, where the combination of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors is a common theme. The use of coconut milk, turmeric, and cilantro root in the marinade gives the chicken its distinctive taste, while the sweet vinegar sauce adds an unexpected twist. This recipe has evolved over time, incorporating ingredients like paprika and curry powder, which are not traditionally Southeast Asian but add depth and complexity to the dish.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) chicken thigh fillets
0.5 cup coconut milk
4 cloves garlic, crushed
1 tsp cracked black peppercorns
2 tsp sugar
2 tsp turmeric
2 tsp paprika
1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, root if possible
1 tsp curry powder
2 small fresh red chilies, chopped
1 tbsp oil

Sweet vinegar sauce

1 small fresh red chili, chopped
2 cloves garlic, crushed
0.5 cup white vinegar
2 tbsp sugar

How to prepare

Cut the chicken thighs in half and place them in a bowl.
Combine the garlic, oil, and the next 7 ingredients in a mortar and pestle, and grind them into a paste.
Mix the paste with the chicken until well combined, then refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
Just before serving, grill the chicken until tender, basting frequently with coconut milk.
Serve the chicken with the sweet vinegar sauce.

Sweet vinegar sauce

Grind the chili and garlic into a paste using a mortar and pestle.
In a pan, combine the vinegar and sugar, and stir over heat until the sugar is dissolved.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer uncovered without stirring until the syrup just begins to color.
Remove the pan from heat, let it cool slightly, and then stir in the chili and garlic paste.

Variations

For a spicier version, increase the amount of fresh red chilies in both the chicken marinade and the sweet vinegar sauce. To make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, marinate the chicken overnight to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat. When grilling, keep the heat medium-high to ensure the chicken is cooked through without burning the outside. Baste the chicken with coconut milk during grilling to keep it moist and add an extra layer of flavor. For the sweet vinegar sauce, ensure the sugar is completely dissolved before bringing it to a boil to avoid crystallization.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the barbecued chicken with a side of steamed jasmine rice or a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors of the dish. For a more substantial meal, consider adding a side of grilled vegetables or a simple noodle dish.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the preferred cooking method for this recipe, as it imparts a smoky flavor to the chicken that complements the sweet vinegar sauce. If grilling is not an option, the chicken can also be broiled or pan-fried.

Ingredient Substitutions

If coconut milk is not available, yogurt can be used as a substitute in the marinade to achieve a similar creamy texture. For a less spicy dish, remove the seeds from the red chilies or use sweet bell peppers instead.

Make Ahead Tips

The chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop more fully. The sweet vinegar sauce can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the chicken on a platter garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges for a pop of color and flavor. Drizzle the sweet vinegar sauce over the chicken just before serving for an appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied beer like a lager to balance the richness of the chicken and the sweetness of the sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover barbecued chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a covered dish and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. The sweet vinegar sauce can be stored separately in the refrigerator and gently warmed before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Barbecued Chicken with Sweet Vinegar Sauce contains approximately 300-350 calories, making it a moderate-calorie option suitable for those managing their calorie intake.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being sugar and coconut milk. Each serving contains approximately 10-15 grams of carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those on a low-carb diet.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the chicken thighs and coconut milk. Chicken thighs are higher in fat than breast meat, but they provide a richer flavor and more tender texture. The coconut milk adds a creamy, fatty component to the dish, with each serving containing about 15-20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Chicken is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Each serving of this barbecued chicken provides approximately 25-30 grams of protein, making it a hearty and satisfying option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly from the fresh herbs and spices used in the marinade. Turmeric and paprika are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and are a good source of Vitamin E. Cilantro provides Vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health. The chicken itself is a good source of B vitamins, particularly niacin and vitamin B6.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are garlic and chilies, which can cause reactions in some individuals. However, this dish is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten, making it suitable for people with these allergies.

Summary

Overall, Barbecued Chicken with Sweet Vinegar Sauce is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of proteins, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is moderately low in carbohydrates and calories, making it a healthy option for a main meal.

Summary

Barbecued Chicken with Sweet Vinegar Sauce is a flavorful and versatile dish that combines the best of savory, sweet, and spicy. With its rich nutritional profile and the ability to make ahead, it's a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her quaint little cottage by the lake. Martha was known for her exceptional cooking skills and always had a new recipe up her sleeve to share with me.

On this particular day, Martha had a twinkle in her eye as she handed me a tattered old cookbook that she had found tucked away in a dusty corner of her kitchen. "I think you'll love this recipe for Barbecued Chicken with Sweet Vinegar Sauce," she said with a smile. "It's a family favorite, passed down through generations."

I eagerly flipped through the pages of the cookbook, taking in the handwritten notes and splatters of sauce that adorned the pages. The recipe for Barbecued Chicken with Sweet Vinegar Sauce caught my eye, and I knew I had to give it a try.

Martha stood by my side as I gathered the ingredients and began to prepare the dish. The scent of the chicken sizzling on the grill mixed with the tangy aroma of the vinegar sauce filled the air, and I knew I was in for a treat.

As the chicken cooked to perfection, Martha shared with me the story behind the recipe. She told me how her grandmother had learned to make the dish from a neighbor who had moved to the South years ago. The neighbor had brought the recipe with her, and it had become a staple in their family ever since.

I was fascinated by the history of the recipe and the way it had been passed down through the generations. Martha's eyes sparkled as she recounted the memories of family gatherings and summer barbecues where the Barbecued Chicken with Sweet Vinegar Sauce was always the star of the show.

Finally, the chicken was ready, and we sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor. The tender meat smothered in the tangy-sweet sauce was a revelation, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made the Barbecued Chicken with Sweet Vinegar Sauce countless times, each time sharing it with friends and family who never fail to be impressed by its delicious flavor. I have added my own touches to the recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my taste, but the essence of the dish remains the same.

Every time I make the Barbecued Chicken with Sweet Vinegar Sauce, I am reminded of that warm summer day at Martha's cottage, of the laughter and friendship that filled the air as we cooked together. The recipe has become more than just a dish to me; it is a symbol of the bond I share with Martha and the love that goes into every meal I prepare.

As I sit here, writing down the recipe for future generations to enjoy, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of cooking and the joy it brings to my life. And I hope that whoever reads these words will be inspired to create their own memories in the kitchen, just as I have done with the Barbecued Chicken with Sweet Vinegar Sauce.