Unleash the exotic flavor: try this mouthwatering chicken satay recipe with lemongrass

Indulge in the delectable flavors of Southeast Asia with our tantalizing chicken satay recipe, infused with the aromatic essence of lemongrass. This dish promises an explosion of flavors that will transport your taste buds to a culinary paradise.

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup lemongrass, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Satay Sauce:

• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red curry paste

For the Skewers:

• 12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

In a large bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients. Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

2. Make the Satay Sauce:

In a saucepan, combine all the satay sauce ingredients. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, or until thickened.

3. Skewer the Chicken:

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers.

4. Grill or Pan-Fry:

Grill the skewers over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through. Alternatively, you can pan-fry them in a nonstick skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side.

5. Baste with Sauce:

During the last few minutes of cooking, baste the skewers with the satay sauce to enhance their flavor.

6. Serve Immediately:

Serve the chicken satay skewers hot with additional satay sauce for dipping. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions for extra freshness.

The Perfect Accompaniments:

Complement your chicken satay recipe lemongrass with these delectable sides:

• Coconut Rice: Prepare a fluffy coconut rice to soak up the satay sauce.
• Cucumber Salad: Slice cucumbers thinly and toss them with vinegar, sugar, and sesame seeds for a refreshing side.
• Peanut Sauce: Serve an additional dipping sauce made with peanut butter, soy sauce, and lime juice.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute tofu or tempeh for the chicken.
• Spicy Satay: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes to the satay sauce for a fiery kick.
• Pineapple Satay: Add pineapple chunks to the skewers for a sweet and tangy twist.

Tips:

• Use Fresh Lemongrass: Fresh lemongrass imparts an intense flavor to this dish. If unavailable, you can use dried lemongrass, but reduce the amount to 1/4 cup.
• Marinate for Flavor: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be.
• Grill or Pan-Fry: Both grilling and pan-frying yield delicious results. Choose the method that best suits your equipment.

Wrap-Up: A Culinary Symphony

This chicken satay recipe lemongrass is a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The aromatic lemongrass, savory marinade, and creamy satay sauce create a harmonious blend that is sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this dish is a must-try for any lover of Southeast Asian cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating.

Q: How can I make the satay sauce spicier?
A: Add more chili flakes or red curry paste to the sauce to your desired level of spiciness.

Q: Can I substitute another type of meat for the chicken?
A: Yes, you can use beef, pork, or shrimp instead of chicken. Adjust the marinating time accordingly.