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The art of stir-frying is a culinary dance of flavor and simplicity, making it a beloved choice for quick, delicious meals. In our fast-paced lives, finding a dish that seamlessly fits into our schedule without compromising on taste is a gift. Enter the hoisin chicken stir fry – a vibrant medley of tender chicken and fresh vegetables, brought to life with the savory allure of hoisin sauce. This blog will walk you through the steps to creating this delectable dish, from prep to plate, ensuring even novice cooks can savor the satisfaction of homemade excellence. Whether you’re clearing out your fridge or simply seeking a new family favorite, this stir fry promises both ease and delight, leaving you craving more.
Ingredients Preparation
Onions and Peppers: Begin with two large brown or yellow onions, or if smaller, use four. Remove both ends, slice them in half, peel, and then cut into medium-sized slices. The aim here is to retain a bit of crunch in the final product. For the bell peppers, take one red and one green, slicing around the core to minimize the seeds. Ensure they are cut similarly in size to the onions to maintain even cooking.
Garlic and Spring Onions: Six cloves of garlic need to be peeled and crushed. A rough chop is recommended to prevent them from burning during the stir fry process. As for the spring onions, use about five or six scallions, chopping them into two-inch sections for the stir fry, while thinly slicing the tops for garnish.
Chicken: Use 500 grams of boneless, skinless chicken thigh, sliced thinly for consistent cooking. Thinner slices mean the chicken will cook quickly and evenly, absorbing the marinade effectively.
Crafting the Marinades
Stir Fry Sauce: The backbone of flavor in this dish comes from mixing four tablespoons of hoisin sauce, a quarter-cup of Shaoxing wine, one teaspoon of mirin, one tablespoon of low-sodium soy sauce, a teaspoon of dark soy sauce, and two tablespoons of rice wine vinegar. A pinch of sugar and ground white pepper will balance the flavors, and whisking ensures a smooth mixture.
Chicken Marinade: The chicken marinade shares some ingredients with the stir fry sauce to create harmony in the dish. Use a quarter-cup of low-sodium soy sauce, a teaspoon of dark soy sauce, and a couple of teaspoons of both Shaoxing wine and mirin. Add half a teaspoon of baking soda to tenderize the chicken, along with two and a half tablespoons of cornstarch to help thicken the sauce. A dash of ground white pepper completes this marinade, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Cooking Steps
- Heating the Wok: Preheat your wok over high heat until it slightly smokes. Then add one and a half tablespoons of a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like peanut oil, ensuring the wok is evenly coated.
- Cooking the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken in a single layer to avoid overcrowding, allowing it to sear for about a minute without stirring to develop a crust. Stir-fry for a further two minutes, ensuring the chicken is nearly cooked.
- Incorporating Vegetables: Introduce the onions and peppers, stir-frying for about three minutes. This timing keeps the vegetables firm but cooked, paving the way for the final additions.
- Adding Aromatics and Sauce: Toss in the chopped garlic, stirring for a minute to release its aroma without letting it burn. Add the thicker scallion pieces and pour in the prepared stir fry sauce. Stir continuously as the sauce boils and thickens, typically taking one to one and a half minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Once the dish is off the stove, you have several serving options. You can enjoy it as is, spooned directly from the wok for a rustic dining experience, or pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a more filling meal. The choice of accompaniment can be based on personal preference or dietary needs.
Garnishing
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty note, while the reserved green onion tops provide a fresh, contrasting flavor. These final touches not only enhance the dish visually but also add layers of flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This hoisin chicken stir fry is a testament to how simple ingredients can be transformed into a delicious meal with just a bit of coordination and a few essential techniques. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights, offering a balance of protein and vegetables, all harmonized by the iconic hoisin sauce. Not only will it satisfy your palate, but it also allows you to experiment with new combinations once you master the basics.
So why not give it a try? Embrace the art of stir frying and savor the dynamic flavors of this dish. Whether served as a quick family dinner or an impressive dish for guests, it’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
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