Chicken Rice Lauhala

Chicken Rice Lauhala Recipe: A Delicious Blend of Flavors and Nutrients

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken Rice Lauhala is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and fragrant rice. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion.

History

Chicken Rice Lauhala is a traditional Hawaiian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. The dish gets its name from the lauhala, or pandanus leaves, that are traditionally used to wrap and steam the chicken and rice. This cooking method infuses the dish with a unique flavor and aroma that is truly unforgettable.

Ingredients

1 cup diagonally sliced celery, cut into 0.25-inch thick pieces
1 cup chopped onion
1 tbsp butter or margarine
2.5 cups cooked chicken cubes
1 x 10.75 oz (305 g) can condensed cream of chicken soup
1 x 8 oz (227 g) can pineapple tidbits, drained (reserve juice)
3 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp ground ginger
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp dry mustard
1.5 tbsp lemon juice
1.5 tbsp soy sauce
3 cups hot cooked rice
0.5 cup toasted sliced almonds (optional)

How to prepare

In a large skillet, cook celery and onion in butter over medium heat until tender-crisp.
Stir in chicken, soup, pineapple, 0.33 cup of pineapple juice, parsley, ginger, salt, mustard, lemon juice, and soy sauce. Heat thoroughly.
Serve the mixture over hot rice and sprinkle with almonds, if desired.
Pour the mixture over fluffy rice.

Variations

You can add diced bell peppers or carrots for added color and flavor.
For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
Substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the celery and onion until they are tender-crisp to add a nice texture to the dish.

- Toasting the almonds before adding them to the dish will enhance their flavor and crunch.

- For a richer flavor, you can use chicken broth instead of water when cooking the rice.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Rice Lauhala can be served with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Chicken Rice Lauhala is to cook the chicken and vegetables until they are tender and flavorful. Be sure to stir the ingredients frequently to prevent sticking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley instead. You can also use cooked turkey or pork instead of chicken.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve. Simply reheat the mixture and serve it over hot rice.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chicken Rice Lauhala in a large serving bowl or on individual plates. Garnish with fresh parsley or sliced green onions for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Chicken Rice Lauhala pairs well with a crisp white wine or a fruity tropical drink.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chicken Rice Lauhala contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chicken Rice Lauhala contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chicken Rice Lauhala contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chicken Rice Lauhala contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

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

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and almonds.

Summary

Chicken Rice Lauhala is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Chicken Rice Lauhala is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and fragrant rice, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Chicken Rice Lauhala. It was given to me by a dear friend who had recently returned from a trip to Hawaii. She told me that she had learned how to make this traditional dish from a local Hawaiian woman who graciously shared her family recipe with her.

As I looked over the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but be intrigued by the unique combination of flavors and techniques used in this dish. The use of Lauhala leaves to steam the chicken and rice together was something I had never seen before, and I was eager to try it out for myself.

I decided to make the Chicken Rice Lauhala for a family gathering that weekend, and I set out to gather all the necessary ingredients. The recipe called for chicken thighs, jasmine rice, coconut milk, ginger, garlic, and a variety of spices. I made sure to pick up the Lauhala leaves from a local specialty store, as they were a crucial part of the dish.

As I began to prepare the dish, I could feel the warm tropical flavors filling my kitchen. The aroma of coconut milk and ginger filled the air, and I knew that this was going to be a dish to remember. I seasoned the chicken thighs with a blend of spices and marinated them in a mixture of coconut milk, ginger, and garlic. Meanwhile, I rinsed the jasmine rice and soaked it in water to prepare it for steaming.

Once everything was ready, I began to assemble the dish. I lined a large pot with the Lauhala leaves, creating a bed for the chicken and rice to sit on. I placed the marinated chicken thighs on top of the leaves, followed by the soaked jasmine rice. I then poured the remaining coconut milk mixture over the chicken and rice, ensuring that everything was well coated.

I carefully folded the Lauhala leaves over the chicken and rice, creating a neat little packet that would steam everything together. I placed the pot on the stove and let it simmer for about an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together and the chicken to cook through.

As the Chicken Rice Lauhala cooked, the scent wafted through the house, drawing my family into the kitchen with eager anticipation. When I finally opened the pot and revealed the steaming dish inside, everyone's mouths watered at the sight and smell of the delicious meal before them.

We gathered around the table and served ourselves generous portions of the Chicken Rice Lauhala. The Lauhala leaves had imparted a subtle, earthy flavor to the dish, while the coconut milk and spices had infused the chicken and rice with rich, tropical notes. Each bite was a burst of flavor, and we all savored every mouthful.

My family raved about the Chicken Rice Lauhala, and they begged me to make it again soon. I was delighted by their reaction and knew that this recipe would become a staple in our household. I thanked my friend for sharing the recipe with me and for introducing me to this wonderful dish that had brought us all together around the table.

From that day on, Chicken Rice Lauhala became a beloved recipe in my repertoire, and I would make it for special occasions and family gatherings. Each time I prepared the dish, I would think back to the first time I had made it and the sense of wonder and excitement I had felt. It was a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories that would be cherished for years to come.