Sukiyaki

Chicken Sukiyaki: A Captivating Culinary Experience

In the world of gastronomy, Sukiyaki is a dish that evokes moments of conviviality and warmth. This recipe, inspired by Japanese traditions, is based on the quick preparation of fresh ingredients, often enjoyed together with family or friends. Although its origins are linked to thinly sliced beef, today we will focus on a delicious variant with chicken breast, which promises to bring a touch of flavor to your kitchen.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Essential ingredients:
- 500 g boneless chicken breast (or tofu for a vegetarian option)
- 3 green onions
- 3 stalks of celery
- 3 carrots
- 200 g mushrooms (preferably shiitake for an authentic taste)
- 3 tablespoons oil (sesame oil or vegetable oil)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 200 ml beef or chicken broth
- 100 g spinach
- 1/2 Iceberg lettuce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 4 cups rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- Salt, to taste

The history of Sukiyaki
Sukiyaki is a dish that has evolved over time, becoming an integral part of Japanese cuisine. Initially, it was made with beef, but adaptations have led to the use of other proteins, such as chicken or fish. This dish is often associated with cold winters, being a popular choice for family meals. People gather around a hot pot, sharing not only food but also stories and unforgettable moments.

Step by step, how to prepare Chicken Sukiyaki

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing and peeling all the vegetables. Cut the chicken breast into cubes – this will help with even and quick cooking. Vegetables such as carrots and celery should be sliced thinly, and shiitake mushrooms can be used whole or halved. The green onions are sliced into rounds, and the Iceberg lettuce is roughly chopped.

2. Cooking the chicken
In a large skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until golden and juicy, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir constantly to prevent sticking.

3. Adding the vegetables
Once the chicken is browned, add the vegetables in order. Start with the tougher ones, like carrots and celery, followed by mushrooms, green onions, and finally, spinach and Iceberg lettuce. Mix well between each addition to allow the flavors to combine.

4. Flavoring
After the vegetables have softened a bit, add the broth. You can use beef or chicken broth, depending on your preference. Then, incorporate the tomato paste, soy sauce, sugar, and salt. Mix everything well and let it boil on high heat for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Serving
Sukiyaki is served hot, alongside boiled rice. It is recommended to use long-grain rice, steamed or boiled, to absorb the delicious flavors of the dish. You can garnish each serving with a bit of chopped green onion for an extra touch of freshness.

6. Variations and suggestions
If you want to experiment, replace the chicken with tofu or fish for a vegetarian or pescatarian option. You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to change the textures and flavors. Rice noodles can also be a delicious alternative to classic rice.

Useful tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are cut evenly for uniform cooking.
- Use sesame oil for a more authentic taste, specific to Asian cuisine.
- If you can't find shiitake mushrooms, you can use champignon mushrooms, but the taste will be different.

Nutritional benefits
This Chicken Sukiyaki recipe is not only delicious but also very nutritious. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and the vegetables add essential fiber and vitamins. Spinach, for example, is rich in iron, while carrots provide beta-carotene, an important antioxidant.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with beef or pork, but make sure to slice them thinly for even cooking.

2. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
For a vegan option, replace the meat with tofu and use gluten-free soy sauce. You can also add more vegetables.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Sukiyaki stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.

4. What drinks pair well with this dish?
Sukiyaki pairs excellently with dry white wine or Japanese green tea. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, lemonade or fresh fruit juice are excellent choices.

So, get ready to enjoy this flavorful Chicken Sukiyaki recipe! With every bite, you'll feel the warmth and joy of a shared meal, full of taste and health. Now, let’s put on our aprons and start the culinary adventure!