• Rush Hour Roaster
• July 16, 2023
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Soy Sauce Chicken: A Classic Asian Recipe

Today, I'm going to share a recipe that's not only easy to make but is also a staple in many Asian households: savory Soy Sauce Chicken. This dish consists of chicken thighs marinated in a mix of ingredients such as soy sauce, soy paste, and spices. It's so straightforward that anyone can prepare it!

History of Soy Sauce

Before we delve into the recipe, let's explore the history of one of the most fundamental ingredients in Asian cuisine: soy sauce. With a history dating back over 2,000 years, soy sauce originated in China around 206 B.C. as a method to extend the shelf life of salt. The early versions of soy sauce were a fermented grain paste called "jiang," which gradually evolved into the liquid soy sauce we know today.

The method of brewing soy sauce spread across East and Southeast Asia, leading each region to create its own unique style and flavor. For example,

• Chinese soy sauce products offer light and dark soy sauces that are integral to authentic Chinese cooking and are cherished for their rich, umami-packed flavors and versatility in a wide array of dishes.
• Taiwanese soy sauce stands out for its unique balance of sweetness and saltiness, often brewed with black soybeans and wheat. This gives it a distinctive, rich taste, making it a popular choice for various Taiwanese dishes, such as braised pork belly or soy sauce chicken.
• Japanese soy sauce, known as "shoyu," includes wheat and tends to be sweeter and less salty than Chinese varieties.
• Meanwhile, Korean soy sauce, called "ganjang," utilizes various grains, offering a distinct taste.

Soy sauce is a crucial ingredient in many Asian cultures. It's featured in a myriad of dishes, including stir-fries, soups, marinades, and dipping sauces. It brings a deep, umami flavor that adds balance and complexity to recipes. Soy sauce is a common ingredient in cooking today, and its lengthy history and cultural significance have cemented its timeless status.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Ingredients:

4 chicken thighs
1/2 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons soy paste
8 cloves of garlic
2 inches of fresh ginger, shucked
2 tablespoons cooking wine
2 cinnamon sticks
3 star anise
2 cups of water
2 scallions, chopped
Black pepper, to taste
Sesame oil, to taste

Directions:

1. Marinating the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, soy paste, garlic, ginger, and cooking wine. Place your chicken thighs in the marinade, ensuring they are fully covered. Let them marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for a deeper flavor.

2. Cooking: After marinating, use a deep skillet pot to brown the chicken thighs on both sides, then add the marinade to the pot. Add the cinnamon sticks, star anise, sesame oil, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

3. Simmering: Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.

4. Seasoning: Towards the end of cooking, add in the chopped scallions.

5. Serving: Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a serving dish and garnish with more chopped scallions.

Whether you're new to cooking or an experienced home cook, this recipe provides an excellent opportunity to explore and appreciate the robust flavors and versatility of soy sauce. Plus, the suggested pairings and variations make this recipe adaptable to any palate, ensuring it will become a favorite in many households.

"Food, in the end, in our own tradition, is something holy. It's not about nutrients and calories. It's about sharing. It's about honesty." - Luciano Pavarotti