Tam ky chicken rice (cơm gà tam kỳ) – 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.
Country: 
Vietnam Region / Locale: Tam kỳ Servings: Serves 4
Vietnam Region / Locale: Tam kỳ Servings: Serves 4Tam Ky Chicken Rice is a flavorful and aromatic dish originating from the coastal city of Tam Ky in Vietnam. This dish beautifully combines tender pieces of chicken with fragrant jasmine rice, cooked with a delicate infusion of turmeric and herbs, delivering a comforting and fulfilling meal. Traditionally enjoyed as a well-balanced meal, it embodies the culinary finesse and simplicity of Vietnamese cuisine, featuring fresh herbs and nuanced flavors that delight the palate.
Ingredients
- chicken thighs – 4 pieces (about 1.5 lbs / 680 g)
- turmeric powder – 1 tsp
- jasmine rice – 2 cups / 400 g
- chicken broth – 3 cups / 720 ml
- shallots – 2, thinly sliced
- garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- ginger – 1 inch piece, grated
- fish sauce – 2 tbsp
- sugar – 1 tsp
- salt – to taste
- cucumber – 1, thinly sliced
- fresh coriander – a handful, chopped
- vegetable oil – 2 tbsp
Instructions
- In a pot, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add sliced shallots, minced garlic, and grated ginger, sautéing until aromatic.
- Add the chicken thighs and sear on both sides until golden brown. Sprinkle turmeric powder over the chicken.
- Pour in chicken broth, fish sauce, and sugar. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook the chicken for about 25 minutes or until cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the broth, set aside, and keep warm. Reserve the broth.
- Rinse the jasmine rice until water runs clear. In a rice cooker or pot, add the rice and reserved broth (should cover the rice by about 1 inch). Cook the rice until done.
- Slice the cooked chicken. Arrange the rice, sliced chicken, cucumber, and fresh coriander on plates. Drizzle any remaining broth over the rice.
- Serve warm, with additional fish sauce on the side if desired.
Substitutions
- chicken thighs -> chicken breasts
- jasmine rice -> basmati rice
- fish sauce -> soy sauce
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Marinate chicken with a bit of fish sauce and pepper for an hour before cooking for deeper flavor.
- Add a dash of lime juice before serving for a touch of freshness.
- Incorporate a bit of coconut milk into the rice for creaminess.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
