Chinese cuisine

Sesame Oil Chicken Wine is a classic Chinese dish that combines tender chicken with the rich flavor of sesame oil and fragrant rice wine. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of making Sesame Oil Chicken Wine at home.

Ingredients

To make Sesame Oil Chicken Wine, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg), cut into serving pieces
• 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
• 3 tablespoons of rice wine or sherry
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2-inch piece of ginger, sliced
• 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of cornstarch
• 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
• Vegetable oil for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Start by washing and cutting the chicken into serving pieces. You can ask your butcher to do this for you or do it yourself using a sharp knife. Trim any excess fat from the chicken pieces and set them aside.

2. Marinate the Chicken:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the rice wine, soy sauce, sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure that all the chicken pieces are coated with the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for better flavor absorption.

   

3. Heat the Sesame Oil:
   While the chicken is marinating, heat the sesame oil in a large wok or deep frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. You can test the heat by adding a small amount of water; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

4. Fry the Garlic and Ginger:
   Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sliced ginger to the wok. Fry for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic or ginger, as this will affect the flavor of the dish.

5. Add the Marinated Chicken:
   Carefully add the marinated chicken pieces to the wok, making sure not to splash the hot oil. Fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.

6. Add More Seasonings:
   Once the chicken is cooked, add more rice wine or sherry to deglaze the wok. This will help release any stuck-on bits and add more flavor to the dish. Cook for another minute or two, stirring constantly.

   

7. Thicken the Sauce:
   To thicken the sauce, mix the cornstarch with a small amount of water to form a slurry. Add this slurry to the wok and stir until the sauce thickens. This will take about 30 seconds to a minute.

8. Serve and Garnish:
   Once the sauce has thickened, remove the wok from the heat and transfer the Sesame Oil Chicken Wine to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped green onion and serve immediately. This dish is best enjoyed while it’s still hot and sizzling.

Variations and Tips

• Vegetable Oil: If you prefer a lighter version of this dish, you can use vegetable oil instead of sesame oil for frying. However, sesame oil adds a unique flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Wine: You can use any type of rice wine or sherry for this recipe. However, some varieties may have stronger flavors that may overpower the dish, so choose one that complements your taste preferences.
• Marinade Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavor it will absorb. However, 30 minutes is a good starting point if you’re short on time.
• Thickening Agent: Besides cornstarch, you can also use potato starch or arrowroot as a thickening agent for this dish. They all work similarly but may have slightly different textures when cooked.
• Garnish: You can also garnish this dish with chopped cilantro or parsley for an extra touch of freshness.
• Storage: This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to maintain its flavor and texture.

Nutritional Benefits

Sesame Oil Chicken Wine is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:

• Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. It also provides essential amino acids that your body needs to function properly.
• Iron: Chicken is a good source of iron, which helps transport oxygen throughout your body and prevents anemia. It’s especially beneficial for vegetarians who may not get enough iron from other sources.
• Selenium: Chicken contains selenium, an antioxidant that helps protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. It may also reduce your risk of developing certain diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
• B Vitamins: Chicken is a good source of B vitamins such as niacin, pantothenic acid, and pyridoxine (vitamin B6). These vitamins are essential for energy production, nervous system function, and immune system health.
• Calcium: Chicken bones contain calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth throughout your life. Eating bone-in chicken can provide additional calcium to your diet.
• Sesame Oil: Sesame oil contains healthy fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help lower your cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart disease. It also contains antioxidants such as sesamol and sesamin that may have anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.