Escape the summer heat with this vibrant and incredibly flavorful Plum Soy Sauce Chicken recipe! This dish is surprisingly easy to make, yet delivers a complex and satisfying taste that will impress even the most discerning palates. The sweet and savory combination of plums, soy sauce, and ginger creates a luscious glaze that perfectly complements the tender chicken. Imagine succulent chicken, glistening with a rich, ruby-hued sauce, served alongside fluffy rice or your favorite summer side dish. It's the perfect centerpiece for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering.
Forget complicated cooking techniques and long prep times; this recipe is designed for simplicity and delicious results. The balance of sweet, salty, and slightly tangy flavors will leave you wanting more. Ready to create this culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and bring this delightful summer dish to life!
Tools Needed
Ingredients
- Chicken thigh meat: 1 piece
- Plums
- Soy sauce
- Mirin
- Sugar
- Sake
- Sliced ginger
- Broth
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate Chicken
- Peel off the chicken skin, creating a pocket to stuff the plums into. Mash the plums (removing seeds) and create a paste, spreading it inside the chicken skin and evenly over the meat.
Step 2. Simmer Chicken in Soy Sauce Mixture
- Place soy sauce, mirin, sugar, sake, and sliced ginger in a slightly smaller pot.
- Add the chicken thigh meat, skin-side down, to the pot. Pour in some broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer until the chicken is moist.
- Add more broth to prevent drying, then gently stir to coat everything evenly.
Step 3. Add Plums and Finish Cooking
- Add the remaining plums (make some cuts for better flavor absorption) and simmer further.
Step 4. Serve
- Cut the chicken into serving pieces.
- Serve the chicken and pour the remaining sauce on top.
Read more: Vegan Braised Lotus Root (Yeongeun Jorim): Easy Korean Recipe
Tips
- The plum paste helps the flavor spread evenly, and the skin protects the chicken, keeping it moist and reducing odors.
- Adding broth ensures the chicken remains soft and absorbs the flavor more easily.
- Don't waste the plum seeds; add them to the pot during the simmering process for extra flavor.
- Experiment with other fillings in the chicken skin pocket, such as spicy paste or wasabi.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250-350
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 15-25g
- Protein: 20-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use dried plums instead of fresh plums?
Yes, you can! Use about ½ cup of dried plums, rehydrated in hot water for 15-20 minutes before using. They'll create a slightly more intense plum flavor.
2. How can I make this dish ahead of time?
This chicken tastes even better the next day! Prepare it completely and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
This easy Plum Soy Sauce Chicken recipe is the perfect solution for a light yet satisfying summer meal. The vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Enjoy the refreshing taste of summer with every delicious bite!