What To Know
- Satay, a delectable dish originating from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, features succulent chicken skewers marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and grilled to perfection.
- Chicken satay and rice is a relatively healthy dish, providing a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
- The tender chicken skewers, infused with a symphony of spices, pair perfectly with the fragrant coconut rice, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
Embark on a culinary adventure to Southeast Asia with this tantalizing chicken satay recipe and rice. Satay, a delectable dish originating from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, features succulent chicken skewers marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and grilled to perfection. Served alongside fragrant coconut rice, this dish promises an explosion of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Southeast Asia.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Satay
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Coconut Rice
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 pandan leaf, tied into a knot (optional)
For Serving
- Cucumber slices
- Red onion slices
- Lime wedges
- Cilantro leaves
- Skewers
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken Satay
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Cooking the Chicken Satay
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
3. Brush the chicken skewers with the remaining marinade.
4. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
Preparing the Coconut Rice
1. Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, coconut milk, salt, and pandan leaf (if using).
3. Bring to a boil over high heat.
4. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork.
Assembly and Serving
1. Arrange the coconut rice on a serving platter.
2. Place the chicken satay skewers on top of the rice.
3. Garnish with cucumber slices, red onion slices, lime wedges, and cilantro leaves.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Chicken Satay
- Use high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate.
- Grill the chicken skewers over medium heat to prevent them from burning.
- Brush the chicken skewers with the remaining marinade while grilling to keep them moist and flavorful.
- Serve the chicken satay immediately with coconut rice and your favorite accompaniments.
Variations and Substitutions
- For a vegetarian version of this dish, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh.
- If you don’t have coconut milk, you can use regular milk or water instead.
- Add a squeeze of lime juice to the marinade for a brighter flavor.
- Garnish the chicken satay with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds for an extra crunchy texture.
Health Benefits of Chicken Satay and Rice
Chicken satay and rice is a relatively healthy dish, providing a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Chicken is a lean protein source, while coconut milk and rice provide essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The spices used in the marinade, such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Takeaways: A Culinary Symphony of Flavors
This chicken satay recipe and rice is a delectable culinary creation that embodies the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia. The tender chicken skewers, infused with a symphony of spices, pair perfectly with the fragrant coconut rice, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a taste of Southeast Asian cuisine, this dish is sure to impress and delight your taste buds.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I use pre-made satay sauce instead of making my own?
A: Yes, you can use pre-made satay sauce if you’re short on time or don’t have the ingredients to make your own. However, homemade satay sauce is typically fresher and more flavorful.
Q: What other vegetables can I add to the coconut rice?
A: You can add a variety of vegetables to the coconut rice, such as chopped carrots, peas, green beans, or corn. This will make the dish more colorful and nutritious.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken skewers and prepare the coconut rice ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook and serve.
