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This fragrant Thai cashew chicken has become a cherished recipe in my kitchen, perfected after experiencing authentic Thai cuisine firsthand. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and aromatic sauce creates an impressive dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Bangkok's street food to the dinner table.
Chef's Notes
The magic of this dish lies in its perfect balance of sweet, salty and savory elements. A touch of honey mellows the soy sauce's intensity, while roasted cashews provide an essential crunch. This comforting meal consistently delivers restaurant-quality Thai flavors from your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 600g boneless chicken breast, fresh
- Base vegetables:
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 large white onion
- 1 garlic clove
- Sauce components:
- 6 tablespoons soy sauce
- Fresh grated ginger
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Cashews: 150g whole cashews
- Thickener: 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- For cooking: Extra virgin olive oil
Preparation Method
- Initial Preparation
- Cut chicken into uniform, bite-sized cubes. Slice carrots thinly and steam until just tender.
- Core Cooking Step
- Heat oil and toast cashews with chicken until golden brown, releasing their natural oils and aroma.
- Sauce Development
- Introduce the honey-soy mixture, coating the chicken pieces until they develop a rich caramel color.
- Vegetable Integration
- Incorporate vegetables and fresh ginger, allowing flavors to meld while maintaining texture.
- Final Assembly
- Combine all elements and finish with cornstarch-thickened sauce for the perfect glossy coating.
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Serving Suggestions
Present on a large white ceramic platter alongside steamed jasmine rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges to enhance the authentic Thai dining experience. The aromatic presentation creates an inviting atmosphere at the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap out chicken for turkey?
- You sure can! Turkey is a great substitute, and cook times stay the same if the meat is cut into similar-sized pieces.
- → How do I cook carrots so they're soft?
- The trick is steaming them a bit beforehand. This keeps them soft while still holding some texture.
- → What if the sauce is too runny?
- Mix some cornstarch and water, then stir it in to naturally thicken the sauce. Don’t forget to blend it well to avoid lumps.
- → Can I make this dish in advance?
- Prepping the ingredients ahead works great, but cook everything fresh at the end to keep the cashews crunchy.
- → What should I serve with this?
- This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, ramen, or even Chinese noodles. Pick what you love most!