Chicken with wood ear mushrooms
Delicious Recipe for Chicken with Wood Ear Mushrooms
Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Introduction
Who doesn't love a dish that combines the fresh aromas of vegetables with the juiciness of meat? Today, I will present you with a recipe for Chicken with Wood Ear Mushrooms, a dish that is not only delicious but also adds a touch of elegance to your table. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress your guests. The hydrated mushrooms add an incredible texture and an umami flavor that will make everyone come back for more!
Short History
Wood ear mushrooms are known for their crunchy texture and ability to absorb flavors. Frequently used in Asian dishes, they have a long history and are appreciated not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits. These mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and nutrients, and the combination with chicken and vegetables gives a note of freshness.
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (thighs with bones and skin can be used for an even richer flavor)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 6 tablespoons soy sauce (choose a quality soy sauce for better flavor)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 1 cup water
- 3 garlic cloves (finely chopped)
- 4 green onions (sliced diagonally)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the garnish:
- 1 bag of Chinese vegetables (carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, green beans – the choice is yours)
- 8 wood ear mushrooms (rehydrated for 30 minutes in hot water and sliced)
- 1 cube of butter
Preparation Method
1. Preparing the meat
To prepare the chicken, start by cutting the thighs into equal-sized cubes. This will ensure even cooking. Place the meat in a large plastic bag, add the cornstarch, and shake well to coat all the chicken pieces with cornstarch. This will help achieve a crispy crust.
2. Brown the chicken
In a wok or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meat and brown it on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if you have many cubes of meat, cook them in batches.
3. Add the flavors
After the chicken is browned, add the chopped garlic and stir quickly to avoid burning, about 30 seconds. Then, pour in the water mixed with vinegar, soy sauce, brown sugar, and pepper. Let it simmer over medium heat, allowing the sauce to reduce for 10-15 minutes until it becomes a thick and flavorful sauce.
4. Finish the dish
When the sauce has reduced, add the white part of the green onions and stir. Turn off the heat after a minute, allowing the flavors to combine.
5. Vegetable garnish
In a separate skillet, melt the cube of butter. Add the Chinese vegetables and the rehydrated mushrooms, stirring well. Season to taste and add a cup of water to help cook the vegetables. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are cooked but still crunchy.
6. Serving
On a large plate, place the chicken covered with sauce and the vegetable garnish alongside. Finish with the sliced green onion leaves for a more attractive appearance.
Practical Tips
- Hydrating the mushrooms: Make sure to hydrate the mushrooms in hot water for at least 30 minutes. This will make them soft and full of flavor.
- Olive oil: You can replace olive oil with sesame oil for a more pronounced flavor.
- Brown sugar: If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white sugar, but the taste will be slightly different.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to diversify the recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I replace the chicken with another type of meat?
Yes, this recipe works very well with pork or fish as well.
2. Is this recipe suitable for a diet?
Chicken is an excellent source of protein, and the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe can be healthy if served in moderate portions.
3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a light beer are excellent choices to accompany the dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, a mint lemonade will perfectly complement the flavors.
Nutrition
This recipe for Chicken with Wood Ear Mushrooms has approximately 350 calories per serving and is rich in proteins, fibers, and antioxidants. It is an excellent choice for a balanced and healthy dinner.
Conclusion
Now that you have gone through the steps of this delicious recipe, you are ready to impress everyone with your culinary skills. Chicken with wood ear mushrooms is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that will bring joy and satisfaction. Don’t hesitate to experiment and add your variations, and remember to share this recipe with friends and family. Enjoy!
Ingredients: 6 chicken drumsticks without bone and skin (I had thighs and didn't remove any bones or skin) 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 6 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons starch 1 teaspoon brown sugar 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 1 cup of water 3 cloves of garlic 4 green onions 1 tablespoon olive oil Garnish: 1 bag of Chinese vegetables 8 hydrated mushrooms 1 cube of butter
