The Zen Chicken
He’s calm, he’s collected and he’s focused; the tranquil cousin of the Kung Fu. This one is for those who are seeking a meal without kick. The preparation is similar to my last chicken dish but the outcome is quite different. After a crazy day in the office enjoy this with a hot cup of green tea and you’ll be transported to a better place.
And now, the destructions…
- Get the Jasmine rice going
- Slice very finely equal amounts of ginger and garlic (about two cloves per breast)
- Slice chicken breast or thigh fillet into strips no wider than 1cm (1 breast or 2 thighs per person)
- Coarsely chop some fresh dill (keep the rest for garnish)
- Now add to a hot pan: oil, ginger, garlic, chopped dill, a few pepper corns and some star anise
- Add a couple of tablespoons of soy sauce and reduce briefly
- Next add the chicken, browning all ingredients lightly and evenly
- Add some sliced Bok Choi or other asian green if you want vege (I didn’t have any surprise surprise)
- Remove from heat source and cover with lid for about 10 min (until cooked)
- Finish with liberal doses of sesame oil
- Now plate up garnishing with more fresh dill and server with Chinese green tea
For dessert I’d recommend a fruit yoghurt or sorbet. Enjoy, and return to a happy place!