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Vietnamese cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, aromas, and textures, characterized by a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements. This unique culinary tradition reflects the country's rich history, diverse geography, and cultural influences. Among the many delightful dishes that grace Vietnamese tables, Caramel Ginger Chicken stands out as a comforting and flavorful option that has won the hearts of many. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also serves as a perfect representation of the essential cooking techniques and flavor profiles that define Vietnamese cooking.

Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken

Discover the irresistible flavors of Vietnamese Caramel Ginger Chicken with this simple and delicious recipe. Achieve a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy by mastering the art of caramelization with chicken thighs, ginger, garlic, and a hint of fish sauce. This dish is a comforting favorite, ideal for family gatherings or special occasions. Bring a taste of Vietnam to your kitchen today! #VietnameseCooking #CaramelGingerChicken #DeliciousRecipes #HomeCookedMeals #FoodieFavorites
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Ingredients
  

500g chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 medium onion, thinly sliced

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 inches fresh ginger, grated

1/4 cup fish sauce

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1/2 cup coconut water (or water)

1 red chili, sliced (optional, for heat)

Fresh coriander (cilantro) for garnish

Cooked jasmine rice, for serving

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with fish sauce, soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to a few hours in the fridge for deeper flavor).

    Prepare the Caramel Sauce: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the remaining brown sugar and cook, stirring constantly until it melts and turns a light golden brown. This will take about 4-5 minutes, so keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

      Add Aromatics: Once the caramel is ready, reduce the heat to low and add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir frequently for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

        Cook the Chicken: Increase the heat back to medium-high. Add the marinated chicken along with any remaining marinade to the skillet. Sauté until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

          Simmer: Add the coconut water (or water), rice vinegar, and optional sliced chili to the pan. Stir to combine, and let the mixture come to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the skillet. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens slightly.

            Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the chicken hot over jasmine rice, garnished with fresh coriander. Enjoy the rich, sweet, and savory flavors of this Vietnamese dish!

              Prep Time | Total Time | Servings

                30 minutes | 1 hour | 4 servings