Delicious salt and pepper smoked chicken: a chinese delight

Salt and pepper smoked chicken is a popular Chinese dish that is known for its flavorful and moreish taste. The chicken is coated in a well-seasoned and gently spiced cornflour mixture before being fried to perfection. Traditionally, this dish is made with tongue-tingling Sichuan peppercorns, but black peppercorns can be used as a substitute. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, preparation method, variations, and serving suggestions for salt and pepper smoked chicken.

What is Salt and Pepper Chicken Made Of?

Salt and pepper chicken is made by coating the chicken in a mixture of cornflour, Sichuan peppercorns (or black peppercorns), sea salt flakes, and Chinese five-spice powder. The chicken is then fried in olive oil until it is crispy and golden brown. A soy and honey glaze is drizzled over the chicken for added flavor. This dish is typically served with greens and plain rice or noodles.

What is Sichuan Pepper?

Sichuan pepper is not actually pepper, but the dried berry of the ash tree. It is highly valued for its mild tingling effect, rather than its heat. Sichuan pepper is commonly used in dishes from the Sichuan province of China and can be found in whole peppercorn or ground pepper form in larger supermarkets, Asian grocery stores, and online.

How to Make Salt and Pepper Mix

Making the salt and pepper mix is quick and easy. Simply crush sea salt flakes with Sichuan peppercorns using a pestle and mortar. Mix this with cornflour and Chinese five-spice powder. Place the mixture into a food bag along with the chicken, seal the bag, and shake it to ensure that the chicken is evenly coated. Fry the chicken in olive oil until it is cooked through and crispy.

What Cut of Chicken is Best for Making this Dish?

In this recipe, chicken thighs are used for their flavor and ability to stay moist and tender during frying. However, if you prefer chicken breasts, you can cut them into strips and reduce the frying time. Alternatively, you can use prawns or pork (loin steaks, cut into strips) as a substitute. Prawns should be fried for 2-3 minutes, while pork should be fried for 5-6 minutes.

Does Salt and Pepper Chicken Contain Gluten?

This recipe contains soy sauce, which may contain gluten. However, you can easily replace regular soy sauce with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Cornflour is naturally gluten-free, but it's always advisable to check the packaging for any potential gluten contamination.

Tips for Making Salt and Pepper Chicken

• Use a neutral-flavored oil suitable for frying, such as olive oil, rapeseed oil, sunflower oil, vegetable oil, or groundnut oil.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying the chicken. Use a large frying pan or fry the chicken in two batches.
• For extra-crispy chicken, remove it from the pan after frying and keep it warm while adding the soy-honey glaze and greens to the pan. Serve the glaze and greens alongside the chicken.
• For a healthier option, bake the chicken pieces on a non-stick baking tray with a small drizzle of oil at 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6 for 10 minutes, or until cooked through. Finish under the grill for extra crispiness.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes or powder to the cornflour mix.

Variations of Salt and Pepper Chicken

If you want to switch things up, you can try different protein options or add a variety of vegetables:

• Instead of chicken, you can use prawns, squid, or strips of pork (loin steaks).
• For a vegan alternative, salt and pepper tofu is a delicious option.
• In addition to pak choi, you can add choy sum, shredded green cabbage, spring greens, or chard.
• Sugar snap peas, mangetout, or a mixture of vegetables can also be included.
• Garnish the dish with chopped coriander, spring onions, red chillies, or shredded ginger for added flavor.

How to Serve Salt and Pepper Chicken

Due to its rich flavor, salt and pepper chicken is best served with plain rice or noodles. Alternatively, you can stuff the chicken into burritos, wraps, pita, or buns and add thinly sliced cucumber and spring onions.

Can salt and pepper chicken be reheated?

Yes, leftover salt and pepper chicken can be reheated. To prevent it from drying out, place it in a frying pan or saucepan with a splash of stock or water. Cover with a lid and simmer for a few minutes until it is piping hot throughout. Alternatively, you can microwave it with a splash of water or stock.

Can I freeze salt and pepper chicken?

Yes, you can freeze leftover salt and pepper chicken for up to three months. Keep it covered in the fridge overnight to defrost before reheating as mentioned above.

Other Salt and Pepper Recipes

If you enjoy the flavors of salt and pepper, here are a couple of other recipes you might like:

• Salt and pepper squid: Deep-fried squid with an extra-crispy coating.
• Salt and pepper chips: A great sharing option instead of meat or fish.

Now that you have all the information you need, it's time to get cooking and enjoy the deliciousness of salt and pepper smoked chicken!

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