Chinese Chicken with Gravy is a popular dish that is enjoyed by many people all over the world. This dish is made with tender pieces of chicken that are coated in a savory sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other flavorful ingredients. The chicken is then served with a rich and flavorful gravy that complements the dish perfectly.
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Chinese Chicken with Gravy is a dish that is often found on the menu at Chinese restaurants and is a favorite of many people. The dish is known for its tender and juicy chicken that is coated in a delicious sauce that is both savory and sweet. The gravy that is served with the dish is also a standout feature, as it is rich and flavorful and adds an extra layer of depth to the dish. Whether you are a fan of Chinese cuisine or simply looking for a new dish to try, Chinese Chicken with Gravy is definitely worth a try.
Historical Background
Chinese cuisine is one of the oldest and most diverse in the world, with a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Chinese Chicken with Gravy, also known as “Kung Pao Chicken,” is a classic dish that has been enjoyed in China for centuries. This dish is famous for its spicy and savory flavor, and it has become a popular choice in Chinese restaurants around the world.
Origins of Chinese Chicken with Gravy
The origins of Chinese Chicken with Gravy can be traced back to the Sichuan province of China, which is known for its spicy and flavorful cuisine. Legend has it that the dish was named after a famous Sichuan governor named Ding Baozhen, who was known for his love of spicy food. The dish was originally made with diced chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and a spicy sauce made from Sichuan peppercorns, chili peppers, and other herbs and spices.
Over time, the dish spread to other regions of China and became a popular choice in many Chinese restaurants. Today, Chinese Chicken with Gravy is enjoyed all over the world and is a staple of Chinese cuisine.
Regional Variations
Chinese Chicken with Gravy has many regional variations, each with its own unique flavor and ingredients. In northern China, the dish is often made with a sweet and sour sauce, while in southern China, it is made with a spicy sauce. In Taiwan, the dish is often served with rice and vegetables, while in Hong Kong, it is often served with noodles.
Despite these regional variations, the essential ingredients of Chinese Chicken with Gravy remain the same: diced chicken, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. Whether you prefer it spicy or sweet, this classic Chinese dish is sure to please.
Recipe Essentials
Ingredient List
To make Chinese Chicken with Gravy, the following ingredients are required:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 2 |
| Cornstarch | 1/4 cup |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Rice wine vinegar | 2 tbsp |
| Sugar | 1 tbsp |
| Chicken broth | 1 cup |
| Garlic cloves | 2 |
| Ginger | 1 tbsp |
| Green onions | 2 |
| Salt | To taste |
| Pepper | To taste |
| Vegetable oil | For frying |
Required Kitchen Tools
To prepare Chinese Chicken with Gravy, the following kitchen tools are required:
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Large skillet
- Tongs
By having all of the ingredients and kitchen tools ready before starting the recipe, it will make the cooking process much smoother and more efficient.
Cooking Process
Preparation Steps
Before starting the cooking process, the chicken should be washed and cut into small pieces. The vegetables, including onion, bell pepper, and carrot, should also be chopped into small pieces. The cornstarch and water should be mixed in a small bowl to create a slurry for thickening the gravy.
Cooking Techniques
To cook Chinese chicken with gravy, heat a wok or large skillet over high heat and add oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and stir-fry until it is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside.
Next, add the chopped vegetables to the wok and stir-fry until they are tender. Once the vegetables are cooked, add the chicken back to the wok and mix well.
Then, add the chicken broth, soy sauce, sugar, and salt to the wok and bring the mixture to a boil. Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for a few minutes.
Finally, add the cornstarch slurry to the wok and stir well to thicken the gravy. Once the gravy has thickened, turn off the heat and let the dish sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions
Chinese chicken with gravy can be served over a bed of rice or noodles. It can also be garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation. This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a side salad.
Nutritional Information
Chinese Chicken with Gravy is a popular dish that is enjoyed by many people around the world. It is a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be served with rice or noodles. However, it is important to be aware of the nutritional information of this dish, especially if you are watching your calorie intake.
The nutritional information of Chinese Chicken with Gravy varies depending on the recipe and the ingredients used. However, in general, this dish is high in protein and carbohydrates, and it may contain high amounts of sodium and fat.
A typical serving of Chinese Chicken with Gravy (about 1 cup) contains approximately 350-400 calories, 30-40 grams of protein, 30-40 grams of carbohydrates, and 10-15 grams of fat. It may also contain 800-1000 milligrams of sodium, which is a significant amount considering the recommended daily intake of sodium is 2300 milligrams or less.
To make this dish more nutritious, it is recommended to use lean cuts of chicken, such as chicken breast, and to limit the amount of added sugar and sodium. Using fresh vegetables and herbs can also add flavor and nutrition to the dish.
Overall, Chinese Chicken with Gravy can be a part of a healthy and balanced diet when consumed in moderation and with attention to the nutritional content of the recipe.