Dive into the heart of Japanese cuisine with our delightful Chikuzenni Simmered Chicken and Vegetables—a dish that promises to transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Japan! This comforting recipe, brimming with tender chicken and a colorful medley of vegetables, is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome treat for the soul. With just 45 minutes of your time, you can whip up a savory masterpiece that will impress family and friends alike. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure that’s as easy as it is delicious? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Japanese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 burdock root, sliced
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons mirin
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 cups dashi broth
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by cutting chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, slicing carrots into thin diagonal cuts, thinly slicing burdock root, and slicing shiitake mushrooms.
- If using fresh burdock root, soak sliced pieces in cold water for 5 minutes to remove any bitterness, then drain and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet, arrange chicken pieces in a single layer at the bottom of the pan.
- Add dashi broth, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar to the pot, ensuring chicken is partially submerged in the liquid.
- Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer over medium heat, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface.
- Add burdock root first, as it takes longest to cook, and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Next, add carrots and continue simmering for an additional 5 minutes.
- Gently add shiitake mushrooms and continue cooking until vegetables are tender and chicken is fully cooked, approximately 10-12 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and let the liquid reduce slightly, creating a glossy, slightly thickened sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding a little more soy sauce or sugar to balance flavors.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot in individual bowls, making sure each serving has a mix of chicken and vegetables with the flavorful sauce.
Tips
- Ingredient Prep is Key: Take the time to prepare all your ingredients before you start cooking. This will ensure a smooth cooking process and help you achieve the perfect texture for each component.
- Soak the Burdock Root: If you're using fresh burdock root, soaking it in cold water for about 5 minutes will help remove any bitterness, allowing the natural sweetness of the vegetable to shine through.
- Layering Flavors: When adding ingredients to the pot, remember to add the burdock root first, as it takes the longest to cook. Follow with carrots and then shiitake mushrooms to ensure everything is perfectly tender.
- Adjust the Sauce: Taste your dish before serving and feel free to adjust the seasoning. A little extra soy sauce or sugar can help balance the flavors and enhance the overall taste.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, allow the dish to rest for 3-5 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
- Serve with Rice: For a complete meal, serve your Chikuzenni with a side of steamed rice to soak up the rich, glossy sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 310kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 80mg
