Chicken Long Rice

Chicken Long Rice Recipe - A Hawaiian Classic with Bean Threads and Green Onions

Region / culture: Hawaii | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Chicken Long Rice is a traditional Hawaiian dish that is simple yet flavorful. This dish is made with tender chicken, long rice noodles, and a savory broth that is perfect for a comforting meal.

History

Chicken Long Rice has its roots in Hawaiian cuisine, where it is a popular comfort food dish. It is believed to have originated from Chinese immigrants who brought their noodle dishes to Hawaii. Over time, the dish evolved to include local ingredients and flavors, creating a unique and delicious recipe.

Ingredients

2.5 lb (1.13 kg) chicken parts
3 qt (2.84 liter) water
1 tbsp salt
1.5 tbsp minced fresh ginger root
1 large onion, finely chopped
5 chicken bouillon cubes
8 oz (227 g) "long rice" (bean threads — angel hair pasta can be substituted)
3 green onions, chopped (including green tops)

How to prepare

Place the chicken in a saucepan that can hold five quarts of water.
Add two quarts of water, salt, and ginger to the saucepan.
Bring the mixture to a boil, skim off any impurities, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 40-45 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and drain the liquid, making sure to save the broth.
Take the meat off the chicken, discarding the bones.
Shred the chicken meat and set it aside.
In the same saucepan, combine the saved broth, onion, bouillon cubes, and the remaining one quart of water.
Bring the mixture to a boil.
Add the long rice to the saucepan, then reduce the heat and let it cook covered for 5 minutes.
Turn off the heat and let it stand for about 30 minutes.
Using kitchen shears, cut the long rice into approximately 3- or 4-inch lengths.
Stir in the shredded chicken and heat it briefly, if desired, before serving.
Sprinkle the dish with green onions before serving.

Variations

Add vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bok choy for added flavor and nutrition.
Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein option.
Spice up the dish with chili flakes or hot sauce for a kick of heat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to skim off any impurities that rise to the surface while boiling the chicken to ensure a clear and clean broth.

- Cutting the long rice into shorter lengths makes it easier to eat and adds a nice texture to the dish.

- Feel free to customize the dish with your favorite vegetables or seasonings for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Long Rice is best served hot with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for Chicken Long Rice include boiling the chicken to make a flavorful broth and simmering the long rice noodles until tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute chicken broth for water and bouillon cubes for a quicker version of the dish.

- Use rice noodles or vermicelli if long rice noodles are not available.

Make Ahead Tips

Chicken Long Rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Chicken Long Rice with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve in individual bowls for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chicken Long Rice with a side of steamed white rice or a fresh fruit salad for a complete meal. A glass of iced tea or a tropical fruit juice complements the dish well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Chicken Long Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Long Rice contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Long Rice contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken Long Rice contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken Long Rice contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken Long Rice is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

Chicken Long Rice contains gluten from the long rice noodles. It may also contain soy from the bouillon cubes.

Summary

Chicken Long Rice is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious meal option.

Summary

Chicken Long Rice is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy meal at home. With tender chicken, long rice noodles, and a savory broth, this Hawaiian-inspired recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my friend Alice in Hawaii. We had spent the morning exploring the beautiful beaches and lush landscapes of the island, and now it was time for lunch.

Alice had invited me to her home for a traditional Hawaiian meal, and I was excited to try something new. As we sat down at the table, she brought out a steaming pot of Chicken Long Rice. The aroma that wafted from the dish was intoxicating, a mixture of ginger, garlic, and chicken broth that made my mouth water.

I watched as Alice carefully ladled the chicken and noodles into bowls, sprinkling green onions on top for garnish. She handed me a spoon and urged me to dig in. The first bite was like a revelation – tender chicken, slippery noodles, and a broth that was both savory and comforting. I was hooked.

I begged Alice to teach me how to make the dish, and she agreed. We spent the afternoon in her kitchen, chopping vegetables, simmering broth, and stirring noodles. She taught me how to infuse the broth with ginger and garlic, and how to cook the chicken until it was tender and flavorful.

As we sat down to enjoy our creation, I couldn't help but marvel at how a simple dish could bring so much joy. The Chicken Long Rice was a perfect blend of flavors and textures, a comforting meal that warmed both body and soul.

From that day on, Chicken Long Rice became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and lazy Sunday dinners. Each time I prepared the dish, I thought of Alice and the wonderful day we spent together in her kitchen.

Over the years, I have added my own twists to the recipe, experimenting with different vegetables, spices, and proteins. But no matter how I change it up, the essence of the dish remains the same – a warm, comforting bowl of Chicken Long Rice that never fails to satisfy.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition that Alice started all those years ago. And each time I make it, I remember the sights, sounds, and smells of that fateful day in Hawaii, when I first discovered the magic of Chicken Long Rice.