Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet or wok
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the sugar and water over medium-high heat until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture turns a deep amber color, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the caramel mixture.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, rice vinegar, soy sauce, green onions, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
4. Pour the fish sauce mixture over the chicken and stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. Stir in the vegetable oil and cilantro.
7. Serve hot with rice.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat for caramelizing sugar
- Medium-low heat for simmering chicken
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 380
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 34g
- Sodium: 2400mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Chicken thighs can be substituted with chicken breast or pork
- Rice vinegar can be substituted with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- Soy sauce can be substituted with tamari or coconut aminos
Variations:
- Add sliced bell peppers or carrots for extra vegetables
- Use honey instead of sugar for a sweeter flavor
- Add chili flakes for a spicier version
Tips and tricks:
- Use a non-stick skillet or wok to prevent the caramel from sticking
- Stir the chicken frequently to prevent burning
- Let the chicken simmer until the sauce has thickened and coats the chicken evenly
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the chicken in a bowl with rice and garnish with chopped cilantro and green onions
Garnishes:
- Chopped cilantro and green onions
Pairings:
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles
Suggested side dishes:
- Stir-fried vegetables or a side salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the caramel burns, start over with fresh sugar and water
- If the sauce is too salty, add a splash of water or more sugar to balance the flavors
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to prevent foodborne illness
Food history:
- Vietnamese caramel chicken is a popular dish in Vietnamese cuisine, where caramelized sugar is used as a base for many savory dishes
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet, salty, savory, and slightly tangy
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot with rice or noodles
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Region: Vietnamese