Chicken Manchurian Recipe

Chicken Manchurian Recipe

Chicken Manchurian is a popular Indo-Chinese dish that combines the flavors of Indian spices with Chinese cooking techniques. It consists of crispy chicken pieces tossed in a tangy and spicy sauce, making it a favorite in both India and Pakistan. Here’s a detailed description of the Chicken Manchurian recipe:

Appearance:

Chicken Manchurian presents itself with golden-brown, crispy chicken pieces coated in a glossy, thick sauce. The sauce has a vibrant reddish-brown color, often garnished with chopped spring onions and fresh cilantro leaves, adding to its appealing presentation.

Aroma:

The aroma of Chicken Manchurian is aromatic and inviting, with the fragrance of garlic, ginger, and green chilies combined with the tangy notes of soy sauce and vinegar. As the dish cooks, the kitchen is filled with a tantalizing scent that promises a burst of flavors.

Flavor Profile:

Chicken Manchurian boasts a bold and tangy flavor profile with a hint of sweetness. The chicken pieces are typically marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger-garlic paste, and spices, then coated in cornstarch or flour and deep-fried until crispy. The sauce is made from a blend of ingredients such as tomato ketchup, soy sauce, vinegar, and chili sauce, creating a savory and slightly spicy base. It may also include bell peppers, onions, and green chilies for added texture and flavor.

Texture:

The texture of Chicken Manchurian is a delightful contrast of crispy and tender. The chicken pieces are crispy on the outside, thanks to the coating of cornstarch or flour, while remaining juicy and tender inside. The sauce is thick and coats each piece of chicken evenly, ensuring a satisfying mouthfeel with every bite.

Cultural Significance:

Chicken Manchurian is a dish that exemplifies the fusion of Indian and Chinese culinary influences. It has become immensely popular in South Asian countries like India and Pakistan, where it is enjoyed as a flavorful appetizer or main course dish. Chicken Manchurian showcases the creativity and adaptability of Chinese cooking techniques to suit local tastes and ingredients.

Serving and Enjoyment:

Chicken Manchurian is best served hot, garnished with chopped spring onions and cilantro, and accompanied by steamed rice or noodles. It pairs well with a cold beverage like beer or a refreshing lemonade. The dish is often enjoyed at restaurants, parties, and special gatherings, offering a satisfying blend of crispy chicken and tangy sauce.

Conclusion:

Chicken Manchurian is a dish that captures the essence of Indo-Chinese cuisine with its crispy chicken, tangy sauce, and bold flavors. Its aromatic aroma, flavorful profile, and appealing texture make it a favorite among those who appreciate the fusion of Indian spices and Chinese cooking techniques. Whether served as an appetizer or main course, Chicken Manchurian invites you to indulge in its savory and delightful taste experience.

Instruments Required:

1. **Mixing Bowl**: For marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce ingredients.

2. **Frying Pan or Wok**: For frying the chicken and preparing the sauce.

3. **Knife and Cutting Board**: For chopping vegetables and chicken.

4. **Measuring Spoons and Cups**: For accurate measurements of ingredients.

5. **Slotted Spoon**: For removing the fried chicken from the oil.

6. **Saucepan**: For cooking the Manchurian sauce.

Ingredients:

**For Marinating Chicken:**

– 500 grams Chicken, boneless, cut into small cubes

– 1 tbsp Soy Sauce

– 1 tbsp Corn Flour

– 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Powder

– Salt to taste

**For Manchurian Balls:**

– 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour (Maida)

– 1 tbsp Corn Flour

– 1 Egg

– Salt to taste

– Cooking Oil for frying

**For Manchurian Sauce:**

– 2 tbsp Cooking Oil

– 2 Garlic cloves, minced

– 1 inch Ginger, grated

– 1 Onion, finely chopped

– 1 Capsicum (Bell Pepper), finely chopped

– 2-3 Green Chilies, finely chopped

– 2 tbsp Soy Sauce

– 1 tbsp Chili Sauce

– 1 tbsp Tomato Ketchup

– 1 tbsp Vinegar

– 1 tsp Sugar

– 1 cup Water

– 1 tbsp Corn Flour mixed with 2 tbsp Water (for thickening)

– Salt to taste

**Other Ingredients:**

– Chopped Spring Onions for garnish

Instructions:

Marinating Chicken:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken cubes with soy sauce, corn flour, black pepper powder, and salt. Mix well and let it marinate for about 20-30 minutes.

Making Manchurian Balls:

1. In the marinated chicken mixture, add all-purpose flour, corn flour, and beaten egg. Mix well to form a sticky batter.

2. Heat oil in a frying pan or wok over medium-high heat.

3. Once the oil is hot, drop small portions of the chicken mixture into the hot oil using a spoon.

4. Fry until the chicken balls are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove them using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Making Manchurian Sauce:

1. Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for a minute until aromatic.

3. Add finely chopped onions, chopped capsicum, and chopped green chilies. Sauté until they turn slightly soft.

4. Add soy sauce, chili sauce, tomato ketchup, vinegar, sugar, and salt to taste. Mix well.

5. Pour water into the pan and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes.

6. Gradually add the corn flour-water mixture while stirring continuously to thicken the sauce.

7. Once the sauce thickens to the desired consistency, add the fried chicken balls to the sauce. Mix gently until the chicken balls are well coated with the sauce.

Serving Size:

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.

Serving:

1. Garnish Chicken Manchurian with chopped spring onions.

2. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.

3. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Manchurian as a main course dish!

The total time required for cooking Chicken Manchurian is approximately 30-40 minutes. Adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences.