Mock Chicken

Mock Chicken Recipe - Chinese Vegetarian Dish Made with Firm Tofu

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Mock chicken is a versatile and delicious alternative to traditional chicken dishes, perfect for vegetarians and those looking to reduce their meat consumption. This recipe uses firm tofu as the main ingredient, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish that can be used in a variety of recipes.

History

Mock chicken has been a popular meat substitute for many years, providing a plant-based option for those looking to enjoy the taste and texture of chicken without actually consuming meat. This recipe offers a simple and delicious way to incorporate mock chicken into your meals.

Ingredients

1 (12 oz) package firm tofu

How to prepare

Leave tofu in its original packaging and place it in the freezer for 72 hours.
Bring a pot of water to a simmer. Place the package of tofu in the water and allow it to thaw, approximately 10 minutes.
Once thawed, remove the tofu from the package, place it in a piece of cheesecloth, and squeeze out the liquid. Shred, dice, or slice the tofu and include it in your favorite recipe.
Makes 2 cups.

Variations

Add your favorite seasonings or marinades to customize the flavor of the mock chicken.
Try baking or grilling the mock chicken for a different texture and taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Freezing the tofu before cooking helps to change the texture, making it more similar to chicken.

- Thawing the tofu in hot water helps to remove excess moisture, allowing it to absorb flavors more effectively.

- Squeezing out the liquid from the tofu before cooking helps to create a firmer texture, perfect for mock chicken dishes.

Serving Suggestions

Mock chicken can be served over rice, in a salad, or as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

Cooking Techniques

Freezing and thawing the tofu helps to create a texture similar to chicken.

- Squeezing out excess liquid from the tofu helps to create a firmer texture for mock chicken dishes.

Ingredient Substitutions

Firm tofu can be substituted with extra-firm tofu for a firmer texture.

- You can also use tempeh or seitan as alternatives to tofu in this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Mock chicken can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve mock chicken on a bed of greens with a drizzle of dressing for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Mock chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover mock chicken 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 mock chicken contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of mock chicken contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of mock chicken contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of mock chicken contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Mock chicken is a good source of calcium, iron, and magnesium, providing essential nutrients for a balanced diet.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy, which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Mock chicken is a nutritious and delicious alternative to traditional chicken dishes, providing a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Mock chicken is a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional chicken dishes, providing a plant-based option for vegetarians and those looking to reduce their meat consumption. This recipe offers a simple and flavorful way to incorporate mock chicken into your meals.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Mock Chicken. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her small cottage by the countryside. Martha was a fantastic cook, and I always looked forward to trying out her new recipes.

On this particular day, Martha had decided to make a special dish for lunch. As she gathered the ingredients and started cooking, the delicious aroma wafted through the air, making my stomach growl in anticipation. When she finally brought out the dish, I couldn't believe my eyes. It looked just like a plate of chicken, but Martha assured me it was actually made from tofu and a special blend of seasonings.

I was skeptical at first, but one bite was all it took to convince me. The Mock Chicken was flavorful, tender, and incredibly satisfying. I immediately begged Martha to share the recipe with me, and she graciously agreed.

As she dictated the ingredients and instructions to me, I scribbled them down in my trusty recipe notebook. I knew this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, and I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends.

Over the years, I have made Mock Chicken countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own taste. It has become a beloved dish in my household, and whenever I make it, memories of that sunny day at Martha's cottage come flooding back.

The key to making Mock Chicken, as Martha taught me, is in the seasoning. A blend of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of sesame oil gives the tofu a rich, savory flavor that mimics the taste of real chicken. Marinating the tofu in this mixture for at least an hour allows the flavors to penetrate the tofu, resulting in a dish that is bursting with umami goodness.

Once the tofu has marinated, it is coated in a mixture of cornstarch and flour, which creates a crispy, golden crust when fried. The texture is remarkably similar to that of chicken, with a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender interior.

I often serve Mock Chicken with a side of steamed vegetables and fluffy white rice. The combination of textures and flavors is simply divine, and it never fails to impress my guests. They are always amazed when I reveal that the delicious dish they are enjoying is actually made from tofu!

As I continue to experiment with new recipes and techniques in the kitchen, Mock Chicken remains a constant favorite. It is a dish that never fails to bring a smile to my face and warm memories of Martha and her charming cottage in the countryside.

I am grateful to Martha for introducing me to this delightful recipe, and I will always cherish the time we spent cooking together in her cozy kitchen. The Mock Chicken recipe holds a special place in my heart, as a reminder of the joy and camaraderie that good food can bring.

And so, whenever I make Mock Chicken, I am transported back to that sunny day when I first discovered this amazing dish. It is a recipe that has stood the test of time, and I am proud to pass it down to future generations, just as Martha passed it down to me. The legacy of Mock Chicken lives on, bringing joy and deliciousness to all who have the pleasure of tasting it.