Welcome to the wonderful world of Chinese cuisine! Today, we’re diving into a mouthwatering dish called Da Pan Ji, which translates to Big Plate Chicken. This delightful recipe hails from the Xinjiang region of China, a place known for its rich flavors and cultural diversity. Big Plate Chicken isn’t just a meal; it’s a feast that brings family and friends together around a large plate filled with tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and spicy sauce.
What makes Da Pan Ji so special is its delicious combination of tender chicken, pasta, and an aromatic sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It’s a popular dish not only in China but also among food lovers worldwide. The unique blend of spices, especially the star anise and chili, gives this dish its signature taste that leaves you wanting more. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken (cut into pieces) | 1.5 lbs (about 700g) |
| Potatoes (cut into chunks) | 2 medium |
| Bell peppers (any color, sliced) | 1 cup |
| Onion (sliced) | 1 large |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Ginger (minced) | 1 inch piece |
| Chili peppers (dried or fresh) | 2-3 (adjust to taste) |
| Chinese soy sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Cooking wine | 2 tablespoons |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Starch (for thickening, like cornstarch) | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a little soy sauce. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it’s golden brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add Aromatics: Add minced garlic, ginger, and sliced onions to the pan. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Incorporate Vegetables: Add the potatoes and bell peppers. Stir everything together for another 5 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, cooking wine, and remaining soy sauce. Add chili peppers to your taste. Bring everything to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. The potatoes should be soft and the chicken fully cooked.
- Thicken the Sauce: Mix starch with a little cold water, then add it to the pan while stirring. Cook until the sauce thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
- Serve: Transfer to a large plate and enjoy your Da Pan Ji with noodles or rice!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 400 | 20% |
| Protein | 35g | 70% |
| Carbohydrates | 30g | 10% |
| Fats | 15g | 23% |
| Fiber | 5g | 20% |
| Sodium | 800mg | 35% |
Tips and Tricks
- Customize It: Feel free to add other veggies like carrots or zucchini for more color and nutrients.
- Make it Spicy: Add more chili peppers for an extra kick, or use a spicy sauce to enhance the flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Watch the potatoes; you want them soft but not falling apart!
- Leftover Love: This dish tastes even better the next day, so make extra for lunch!
FAQs
What can I serve with Da Pan Ji?
You can serve Da Pan Ji with noodles, rice, or even traditional Chinese bread. It’s perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce!
Is Da Pan Ji spicy?
Yes, Da Pan Ji can be spicy! You can adjust the level of spice by adding more or fewer chili peppers based on your taste.
Can I use other meats?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use pork, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation and cooking combined will take about 1 hour, making it an excellent choice for a family dinner!
Can I make it in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when you are ready to serve. It’s perfect for meal prep!
Is Da Pan Ji healthy?
It can be a healthy dish depending on how much oil and sodium you use. Using lean chicken and lots of vegetables makes it nutritious!
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove to maintain texture.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it is thawed and at room temperature before cooking for even results.
What type of noodles go well with this dish?
Wide rice noodles or egg noodles complement Da Pan Ji very well, but you can use any noodle you like!
Is Da Pan Ji suitable for kids?
Yes, it can be made milder for kids by reducing the spice level. They’ll love the flavors and textures!
What if I don’t have cooking wine?
If you don’t have cooking wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or white grape juice for a non-alcoholic version.
Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to enjoy the flavors of Da Pan Ji. Happy cooking!
