Taiwanese popcorn chicken – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken, also known as ‘Yan Su Ji,’ is a beloved street food staple from Taiwan, celebrated for its crispy texture and bold flavors. This dish has its roots in the bustling night markets of Taiwan, where the savory aroma lures food lovers from across the world. By marrying aromatic spices with the tenderness of bite-sized chicken pieces, this dish offers a delightful kick with every bite, thanks to the addition of Asian spices and a hint of fried basil.
Ingredients
- chicken thighs – 500 g / 1 lb, boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- soy sauce – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- rice wine – 1 tbsp / 15 ml
- garlic powder – 1 tsp / 5 g
- white pepper – 1/2 tsp / 2 g
- five spice powder – 1 tsp / 5 g
- cornstarch – 1/2 cup / 60 g
- sweet potato starch – 1/2 cup / 60 g
- vegetable oil – for deep frying
- fresh basil leaves – a handful
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix chicken pieces with soy sauce, rice wine, garlic powder, white pepper, and five spice powder. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Combine cornstarch and sweet potato starch in a wide dish.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium heat.
- Coat marinated chicken pieces in the starch mixture and shake off excess.
- Carefully add chicken to the hot oil, frying in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-6 minutes per batch.
- Allow basil leaves to fry briefly in the oil until crispy, then remove and drain on paper towels.
- Drain chicken on paper towels and serve hot, garnished with the fried basil leaves.
Substitutions
- rice wine -> sherry or white wine
- five spice powder -> a mix of cinnamon, star anise, cloves, fennel, and Szechuan peppercorns
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Enhance flavor by adding a touch of chili powder to the marinade.
- Increase crunch by double-frying the chicken.
- Use an air fryer for a healthier preparation without sacrificing crispiness.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
