Steam-roasted chicken without water is a unique cooking method that preserves the natural flavor and sweetness of the meat. This technique utilizes the chicken’s own heat and fat to cook, resulting in a savory and delicious dish. Here is a detailed guide to help you prepare this mouthwatering dish at home.
Ingredients for Tasty Roasted Chicken
1 free-range chicken (approximately 1.2 – 1.5 kg, choose a fresh chicken with yellow skin and firm meat).
2 tablespoons of salt.
1 tablespoon of turmeric powder (or 1 small knob of grated fresh turmeric).
2 small knobs of ginger (1 grated, 1 sliced).
3-4 fresh kaffir lime leaves.
1 teaspoon of black peppercorns.
2 tablespoons of white wine (optional, helps remove the fishy smell).
1 tablespoon of honey (optional, gives a glossy coat to the chicken).
Equipment
An air fryer or a pot with a tight-fitting lid (cast iron or thick stainless steel pot).
Aluminum foil (if using a regular pot).
Stove (electric, gas, or induction).
How to Steam-roast Chicken – A Flavorful Delight
Prepare the chicken:
Wash the chicken thoroughly with water and rub it inside and out with salt to remove any fishy odor. Then, rinse it again with clean water.
Marinate the chicken with a mixture of grated ginger, turmeric powder (or fresh turmeric), black peppercorns, 1 tablespoon of salt, white wine, and honey. Massage the mixture all over the chicken, stuff its cavity with lime leaves and sliced ginger. Let it marinate for 30-45 minutes.
Prepare the pot:
If using an air fryer: Line the bottom of the fryer with aluminum foil to catch the dripping fat, making cleanup easier.
If using a regular pot: Line the bottom and sides of the pot with 2-3 layers of aluminum foil, ensuring it is well-sealed to prevent steam from escaping.
Steam-roast the chicken:
Place the chicken in the pot and cover tightly. If using a regular pot, you can wrap a damp cloth around the lid to ensure a tight seal.
Turn on the stove to the lowest heat setting and cook for about 45-60 minutes (depending on the size of the chicken). Do not open the lid during cooking to retain the heat and moisture released by the chicken.
After 30 minutes, quickly check if the chicken is cooked by piercing the thigh with a skewer. If the juices run clear, the chicken is ready.
Final touches:
Turn off the heat and let the chicken rest in the pot for an additional 10 minutes before removing it.
Carve the chicken into desired pieces and arrange them on a serving plate. Garnish with kaffir lime leaves or coriander sprigs.
Tips for a Flavorful Dish
Opt for free-range chicken over industrial-farmed chicken for sweeter and more flavorful meat.
Allow sufficient marination time for the spices to penetrate the meat.
Serve with a side of salted chili lime dip or ginger fish sauce to enhance the flavors.
The rendered chicken fat can be used as a tasty dip or mixed with rice, adding a delicious twist.
Serving suggestions
Steam-roasted chicken without water goes well with hot rice, sticky rice cakes, or as a main course for special occasions.
The chicken broth (chicken fat) can be used as a soup base or a dipping sauce, adding extra allure to the dish.
We hope you’ll enjoy preparing and indulging in this flavorful steam-roasted chicken without water!
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