Chinese Chicken with Peanuts (Kung Pao Chicken)

Chinese Chicken with Peanuts (Kung Pao Chicken)

Kung Pao Chicken, an iconic recipe from Chinese cuisine, is a true delicacy that combines spicy and crunchy flavors in a delightful dance of tastes. This dish has gained popularity not only in China but also around the world, becoming a favorite among Asian food enthusiasts. Its story dates back to the Qing Dynasty when a minister, with a passion for peanuts and spicy peppers, inspired a chef to create a dish that would tantalize his palate. Today, I invite you to discover how to recreate this delicious meal right at home.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 2-3

Ingredients

For the chicken:
- 200 g chicken breast
- 1 carrot
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 2 green onions
- A handful of unsalted peanuts
- A small piece of fresh ginger
- 3 garlic cloves
- 4-5 dried red chili peppers (adjust to taste)

For the marinade:
- 1 teaspoon rice wine
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon cold water

For the sauce:
- 1 teaspoon rice wine
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons cold water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

1. Preparing the chicken: Cut the chicken breast into evenly sized cubes for uniform cooking. In a bowl, add the chicken cubes and the marinade ingredients: rice wine, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and cold water. Mix well, cover the bowl, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, peel and chop the carrot, bell peppers, and the remaining vegetables. Cut the carrot and bell peppers into cubes, and finely chop the ginger and garlic. Use only the white part of the green onions for cooking, saving the green part for garnish at the end.

3. Preparing the sauce: In a bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: rice wine, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, cold water, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.

4. Cooking the chicken: In a large pan or wok, heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil over high heat. Add the chicken cubes and stir-fry for 3 minutes until golden, stirring occasionally for even cooking. Once cooked, remove them to a plate and set aside.

5. Toasting the peanuts: In the same pan, add 1 teaspoon of sesame oil and toast the peanuts for a few seconds until fragrant. Set them aside.

6. Stir-frying the ingredients: In the wok, heat 2 teaspoons of sesame oil. The oil should be very hot, almost smoking! Add the dried chili peppers and stir-fry for a few seconds until browned. Add the ginger, garlic, and the white part of the green onion, and stir-fry for 30 seconds.

7. Adding the vegetables and chicken: Add the cubed carrot and bell peppers, followed by the cooked chicken and toasted peanuts. Mix everything well.

8. Finishing the dish: Pour the prepared sauce over the ingredients in the wok and stir quickly. Let it cook for a few seconds until the sauce thickens.

9. Serving: Garnish with the green part of the green onions and serve hot. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles.

Helpful Tips

- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as broccoli or zucchini, according to your preferences. For a more intense flavor, add a few drops of fish sauce to the final sauce.
- Adjusting spiciness: If you prefer a spicier dish, keep the seeds of the chili peppers. If you want to tone it down a bit, remove the seeds.
- Enhancing flavor: Add a splash of rice vinegar at the end for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Kung Pao Chicken is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the chicken breast. Peanuts add healthy fats, while the vegetables contribute essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe is not only delicious but also provides significant nutritional value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can it be made with pork or beef? Yes, the recipe can be adapted with pork or beef, making sure to adjust the cooking time for a tender texture.

What drinks pair well with Kung Pao Chicken? A dry white wine or a cold beer are excellent options that complement the spicy flavors of the dish.

What is the best way to store leftovers? You can store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve learned how to prepare Kung Pao Chicken, all that’s left is to invite your friends over for a flavorful feast. This recipe is not just a delicious dish, but also an opportunity to share culinary traditions and how a simple meal can bring people together. Experiment with the ingredients, add your own twists, and turn every meal into a celebration!