Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken
Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken, or Gà Kho Gừng, is a classic dish known for its balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. The chicken is tender and succulent, coated in a rich, sticky caramel sauce infused with the warm, aromatic notes of ginger. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh ginger, peeled and julienned
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup water
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Cooking Guide:
- Prepare the chicken: Toss the chicken pieces with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Make the caramel: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sugar and cook, stirring constantly, until it melts into a deep caramel color. Be careful not to burn it.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the onion, ginger, and garlic to the caramel and sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Combine and cook: Stir in the chicken, fish sauce, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
- Thicken the sauce: Add the water and bring to a simmer. Cook until the sauce has thickened and reduced slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately with steamed rice or a fresh salad.
Tips:
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute bone-in chicken thighs for boneless, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- For a richer flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.
- Serve with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
- This dish is also delicious served over noodles.
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