Beggars Chicken

Beggars Chicken Recipe

Welcome to the world of culinary exploration with our delicious Beggars Chicken recipe! This traditional Chinese dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a delightful experience for the senses. Encased in a clay shell, the chicken is infused with fragrant aromatics and tender flavors, resulting in a juicy and succulent masterpiece that will wow your guests. Let’s dive into this flavorful journey together!

Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken, about 3-4 pounds
– 4 slices ginger
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups rock salt
– 1 egg white
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season the chicken cavity with salt and pepper.
2. In a bowl, combine the ginger, garlic, green onions, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, and sugar. Mix well to create the marinade.
3. Rub the marinade all over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator.
4. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on all sides until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side.
6. In a mixing bowl, combine the rock salt and egg white. Mix until the salt is evenly coated with the egg white.
7. Place a layer of salt mixture on the bottom of a roasting pan. Lay the chicken on top of the salt and cover it completely with the remaining salt mixture, ensuring there are no gaps.
8. Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the size of the chicken. The salt crust should harden and turn golden brown.
9. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Carefully crack open the salt crust and discard it.
10. Transfer the chicken to a serving platter, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot. Enjoy the juicy and flavorful Beggars Chicken with your favorite sides!

This Beggars Chicken recipe is a show-stopper that will impress your family and friends at any gathering. The unique cooking method locks in the moisture and flavors, resulting in a tender and succulent chicken that is sure to wow your taste buds. Don’t be intimidated by the clay shell – it’s easier to make than it looks and adds a touch of drama to your dining experience. Give this recipe a try and elevate your home cooking to new heights!