Ginger Mint Chicken

Ginger Mint Chicken Recipe from Singapore with Peanuts and Tapioca Flour

Region / culture: Singapore | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ginger Mint Chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the zesty taste of ginger with the refreshing flavor of mint. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a balance of spicy and tangy flavors in their meals.

History

The origins of Ginger Mint Chicken can be traced back to Southeast Asian cuisine, where the combination of ginger, mint, and other herbs and spices is commonly used in cooking. This dish has been enjoyed for generations as a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

chicken, cut into small pieces
Finely chopped ginger
Chopped mint
Chopped green chillies
fish sauce
lime juice
sugar
Ground peanuts
sesame
tapioca flour (or other starch), for thickening

How to prepare

Heat oil in a pan and fry the ginger and chilies.
Add the chicken and fry for several minutes.
Add the fish sauce and let it sizzle.
Add 0.5 cups of water, cover, and cook until done.
Add a pinch of sugar, lime juice, mint, and peanuts.
Thicken with starch, sprinkle sesame seeds, and serve.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute tofu for the chicken.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added texture and flavor.
Use different herbs such as cilantro or basil for a unique twist on the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to finely chop the ginger and mint to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the dish.

- Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your spice preference.

- Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become tough and dry.

- Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Ginger Mint Chicken can be served with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. It pairs well with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Ginger Mint Chicken is to cook the chicken until it is tender and juicy, and to balance the flavors of ginger, mint, and other ingredients. Stir-frying the ingredients in a hot pan helps to develop the flavors and create a delicious sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fish sauce, you can substitute soy sauce or oyster sauce for a similar umami flavor. You can also use cornstarch or arrowroot powder instead of tapioca flour for thickening.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the chicken in the ginger, mint, and lime juice mixture ahead of time to allow the flavors to develop. Store the marinated chicken in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Ginger Mint Chicken with fresh mint leaves and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation. Serve the dish in a colorful bowl or plate to enhance the visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

Ginger Mint Chicken pairs well with a light and refreshing white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, serve with a glass of iced green tea or sparkling water with a splash of lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Ginger Mint Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quick and easy meal.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories per serving: 250

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 10g per serving

Fats

Fats: 8g per serving

Proteins

Proteins: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamins and Minerals: This dish is rich in vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

Allergens: This dish contains peanuts and sesame seeds.

Summary

Ginger Mint Chicken is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and vitamins. It is a great option for those looking for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Summary

Ginger Mint Chicken is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its bold flavors and aromatic herbs, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Ginger Mint Chicken. It was a warm summer day, and I was browsing through a quaint little flea market in the countryside. As I wandered through the stalls filled with antiques and handmade crafts, I came across a dusty old cookbook tucked away in a corner.

Intrigued, I picked it up and flipped through the pages, my eyes landing on a recipe that caught my attention. Ginger Mint Chicken. The name alone sounded so enticing, and as I read through the ingredients and instructions, I knew I had to try it out.

I quickly purchased the cookbook and rushed home to get started on my culinary adventure. As I gathered the ingredients and prepared the dish, the fragrant aroma of ginger and mint filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

I followed the recipe carefully, marinating the chicken in a mixture of ginger, mint, garlic, and other spices before grilling it to perfection. The result was a mouthwatering dish that was bursting with flavor and freshness.

As I sat down to enjoy my Ginger Mint Chicken, I couldn't help but marvel at the serendipitous way in which I had discovered this recipe. It was as if fate had led me to that flea market on that particular day, just so I could uncover this hidden gem of a dish.

Since that fateful day, Ginger Mint Chicken has become a staple in my cooking repertoire. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, and it has always been met with rave reviews. The combination of the zesty ginger, the invigorating mint, and the tender chicken creates a harmony of flavors that is truly unforgettable.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks and adjustments to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it even more delicious. I have experimented with different cooking methods and variations, but the essence of the dish has always remained the same – a delightful blend of flavors that never fails to impress.

I have also had the opportunity to learn more about the origins of the recipe. I discovered that it has its roots in traditional Chinese cuisine, where ginger and mint are often used together to create dishes that are both flavorful and aromatic. The combination of these two ingredients is believed to have various health benefits, making Ginger Mint Chicken not only a delicious meal but also a nutritious one.

As I continue to cook and experiment with different recipes, Ginger Mint Chicken holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of that fateful day at the flea market, where I stumbled upon a culinary treasure that has brought joy and satisfaction to countless meals.

I am grateful for the serendipitous events that led me to discover this recipe, and I look forward to sharing it with many more people in the years to come. Ginger Mint Chicken will always hold a special place in my cooking repertoire, a reminder of the joy of stumbling upon unexpected treasures in the most unexpected of places.