Dish

Chicken with Walnuts

Chicken with Walnuts is a stir-fry dish that features tender pieces of chicken breast, crunchy walnuts, and a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, and cornstarch, which helps to tenderize the meat and give it a velvety texture. The walnuts are toasted in a dry pan until they are fragrant and golden brown, and then added to the stir-fry at the end to add crunch and texture. The sauce is made by combining soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and cornstarch, which thickens the sauce and gives it a sweet and savory flavor. This dish is typically served over steamed rice.

Asian cuisine› Chinese cuisine

Stir-fry

Origins and history

This dish is a classic Chinese recipe that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is said to have originated in the Sichuan province of China, which is known for its spicy and flavorful cuisine. The combination of chicken and walnuts is thought to be a symbol of good luck and prosperity in Chinese culture.

Dietary considerations

This dish is high in protein and healthy fats from the chicken and walnuts, but it does contain added sugar from the honey and hoisin sauce. It can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce and ensuring that the hoisin sauce is gluten-free. It can also be made dairy-free by omitting the butter.

Variations

Variations of this dish can include adding vegetables such as broccoli, snow peas, or bell peppers to the stir-fry. Some recipes also call for the addition of ginger or garlic to the sauce for extra flavor. Vegetarians can substitute tofu for the chicken.

Presentation and garnishing

To make this dish look extra special, garnish it with chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve it in a large platter with the rice and vegetables on the side. Make sure to stir-fry the chicken and walnuts separately to ensure that they are evenly cooked and don't get soggy.

Tips & Tricks

To ensure that the chicken is tender and juicy, marinate it for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Make sure to use a high-quality soy sauce and hoisin sauce for the best flavor. Toast the walnuts in a dry pan over medium heat, stirring frequently, to prevent them from burning.

Side-dishes

This dish is typically served with steamed rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables such as bok choy or gai lan.

Drink pairings

Pair this dish with a light and refreshing white wine such as a Pinot Grigio or a Riesling. For a non-alcoholic option, try a jasmine tea or a sparkling water with a splash of lime juice.