Craving a dish that's both comforting and exciting? Look no further than Renkon & Chicken Nanbanzuke, a vibrant Japanese fusion of sweet and sour flavors. This recipe expertly combines the unique crunch of lotus root (renkon) with tender, juicy chicken, all coated in a tantalizingly addictive sauce. The delicate sweetness of the sauce perfectly balances the savory chicken and the satisfyingly crisp renkon, creating a symphony of textures and tastes in every bite. It's a dish that's both beautiful to look at and incredibly satisfying to eat, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
This recipe elevates the classic Nanbanzuke by incorporating the delightful crunch of lotus root, adding another layer of textural complexity. Get ready to experience a truly unforgettable culinary journey as we guide you through each step, from preparing the crispy chicken to crafting the perfect sweet and sour sauce. Ready to make this delicious Japanese dish? Let's get started!
Tools Needed
- Sauce pan
- Bowl
- Frying pan
- Kitchen paper
- Large pot
Ingredients
- Chicken
- Lotus root (Renkon)
- Carrots
- Green onions
- Flour
- Salt
- Pepper
- Frying oil
- Water
- Dashi stock
- Soy sauce
- Rice vinegar
- Sugar
- Hot Chili Peppers
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients & Batter
- Peel the carrots and lotus root (renkon), then slice them into 5-7mm thick pieces. Slice the green onions lengthwise.
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken pieces in the mixture.
Step 2. Fry the Vegetables and Chicken
- Heat frying oil in a medium saucepan to 150°C. Fry the renkon and carrots until crispy and golden brown.
- Remove the renkon and carrots from the oil and place them on kitchen paper to absorb excess oil.
- Fry the chicken until the inner temperature reaches 70°C or higher. Place on kitchen paper to absorb excess oil.
Step 3. Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce
- In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add dashi stock, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and hot chili peppers. Mix well and turn off the heat.
Step 4. Combine and Serve
- Place the renkon, carrots, and chicken in a large pot. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over everything, adding the green onions.
Read more: Sweet Pickled Daikon Recipe: Easy Homemade Tsukemono
Tips
- The fried renkon makes a great alternative to potato chips!
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 20-30gg
- Carbs: 40-50gg
- Protein: 25-35gg
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and renkon separately ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Combine and sauce just before serving to maintain the crispiness.
2. What can I substitute for the lotus root (renkon)?
While renkon provides a unique texture, you could try substituting with firm vegetables like jicama or even thinly sliced potatoes for a similar crispy element. The flavor profile will differ slightly.
This Crispy Renkon & Chicken Nanbanzuke recipe offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors, making it a truly memorable culinary experience. From the satisfying crunch of the renkon to the tender chicken bathed in a sweet and sour sauce, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary adventure!