Introduction

Velveting chicken is a classic technique used in Chinese cuisine to achieve tender, succulent meat. This method is commonly used in restaurants to ensure that chicken remains juicy and flavorful, especially in stir-fries and other dishes. The process involves marinating the chicken with a mixture of ingredients, followed by a quick blanching or frying to seal in the moisture. By following this technique, home cooks can replicate restaurant-quality chicken dishes with ease.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– chicken breast or thigh: 500 grams
– cornstarch: 2 tablespoons
– vegetable oil: 1 tablespoon
– soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
– sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
– egg white: 1

Prep Time

Prep time for velveting chicken typically takes about 20 minutes. This includes the time needed for marinating the chicken and preparing the ingredients.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is about 5-7 minutes, depending on the method of cooking used. The total time from start to finish is approximately 30 minutes, and this recipe yields enough tender chicken for 2-3 servings.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are roughly uniform for even cooking.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with a mixture of cornstarch, water, and a small amount of vegetable oil. This combination creates a protective coating that helps to tenderize the meat.

Step 3: Let the Chicken Rest

Allow the chicken mixture to rest for about 30 minutes at room temperature. This step is essential for the velveting process, giving the cornstarch time to take effect.

Step 4: Prepare the Water Bath

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Ensure the water is not boiling vigorously, as a gentle simmer is ideal for cooking the chicken evenly.

Step 5: Velvet the Chicken

Once the water is at the right temperature, carefully lower the marinated chicken pieces into the pot. Stir gently to prevent them from sticking together. Allow them to cook for about 1-2 minutes, until they are just cooked through.

Step 6: Remove the Chicken

Using a slotted spoon, remove the chicken from the water and set it aside on a plate. It should have a slightly translucent appearance, indicating it is tenderized correctly.

Step 7: Sauté the Chicken (Optional)

If you are using the chicken in a stir-fry or other dish, heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add a small amount of oil, then add the velvetted chicken to quickly sauté it until golden and heated through.

Notes

Note 1: Chicken Selection

Use boneless chicken thighs or breasts, as they are best for velveting due to their tenderness.

Note 2: Timing

Be mindful of the cooking time in the water; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture instead of the desired tender feel.

Note 3: Cornstarch Variation

If preferred, you can also use baking soda as a tenderizer, adjusting the quantity accordingly to maintain the effect.

Note 4: Usage

This velveting technique can also be applied to other proteins like seafood or tofu for a tender texture.

Cook techniques

Velveting

Velveting is a technique used to tenderize chicken, making it incredibly soft and juicy. This process involves marinating the chicken in a mixture of egg whites, cornstarch, and sometimes rice wine or soy sauce, followed by a quick blanching in hot oil or water.

Marination

Marinating the chicken helps infuse it with flavor and enhances its texture. A typical marination mixture may include egg whites, cornstarch, and seasonings.

Blanching

Blanching is a brief cooking method used in this technique. The chicken is quickly cooked in hot oil or water to seal in moisture and maintain tenderness before the final cooking stage.

Stir-Frying

After velveting, the chicken is often stir-fried with vegetables and sauces. This method allows for quick cooking at high heat, resulting in a flavorful dish while keeping the chicken tender.

Cooking Temperature

Maintaining a high cooking temperature during stir-frying is crucial. This ensures that the chicken develops a nice sear while preventing it from overcooking.

FAQ

What is velveting?

Velveting is a cooking technique used primarily in Chinese cuisine to make chicken or other meats tender and juicy.

Why use egg whites in velveting?

Egg whites help create a protective coating around the meat which locks in moisture and tenderness during cooking.

Can I use this technique for other proteins?

Yes, velveting can be used for various proteins, including beef, shrimp, and tofu, to achieve similar tenderness.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

It is recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Is blanching necessary in the velveting process?

Blanching is a critical step in the velveting process, as it helps to seal in moisture and achieve the desired tenderness.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?

If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use potato starch or arrowroot powder as substitutes for the velveting process.

Conclusion

Velveting chicken is an essential technique that elevates the tenderness and juiciness of chicken dishes, making them reminiscent of the delectable offerings found in Chinese restaurants. By incorporating this simple method into your cooking repertoire, you can enhance your homemade meals and impress family and friends with restaurant-quality dishes.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Stir-Fried Chicken with Broccoli

Combine velveting chicken with fresh broccoli and a savory stir-fry sauce for a quick and healthy meal.

Chicken Fried Rice

Use velveted chicken in a flavorful fried rice dish packed with vegetables and soy sauce for a satisfying one-pan meal.

Kung Pao Chicken

Incorporate velveted chicken into a spicy Kung Pao stir-fry for a beautifully balanced dish of flavors and textures.

Chicken Chow Mein

Add velveted chicken to chow mein noodles with mixed vegetables and a soy-based sauce for a classic takeaway favorite at home.

Chicken Salad with Asian Dressing

Use velveting chicken to create a light and refreshing salad, topped with a tangy Asian-inspired dressing and crunchy nuts.

Sesame Chicken

Make a crispy sesame chicken by pairing velveted chicken with a sweet and sticky sesame glaze for a delightful treat.