Authentic Three Cup Chicken (San Bei Ji)
Discover how to make authentic Three Cup Chicken (San Bei Ji) at home with this easy-to-follow recipe. This Taiwanese classic features tender chicken simmered in a savory sauce made with equal parts sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice wine. Perfect for a delicious and satisfying meal!
Equipment
- 1 large wok
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. chicken wingettes and drummettes
- 15-20 slices ginger
- 15-20 cloves garlic
- 1-2 tablespoons sugar adjust to taste
- 1 cup rice wine 240 ml
- 1 cup sesame oil 240 ml
- 1 cup soy sauce 240 ml
- 1 tablespoon soy paste
- 2-3 red chili peppers sliced (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 large bunch fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Gather All Ingredients.
Prepare the Chicken:
- Start by rinsing the chicken wingettes and drummettes under cold water, then pat them dry with a paper towel.
Sear the Chicken:
- Place the chicken in the wok and sear the pieces on one side. During this process, add the ginger slices evenly. After about one minute, the ginger will start to release its fragrance.
- Flip all the chicken pieces to the other side and add the garlic evenly. Continue to cook until the chicken is browned on all sides. Stir occasionally and check to ensure all pieces are evenly browned. This process should take about 5-7 minutes.
Incorporate the Sauces:
- Pour in the soy sauce, rice wine, and soy paste. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly in the sauce. Bring it to a boil. Add sugar to taste, adjusting as needed for sweetness.
Simmer the Chicken:
- Lower the heat and let the chicken simmer uncovered for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and reduce, coating the chicken in a glossy finish.
Add Basil and Chili Peppers:
- Add the basil and chili peppers, stirring to combine. Cook just until the basil wilts and the sauce reduces to a rich, sticky consistency.
Serve:
- Your Authentic Three Cup Chicken is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it hot with steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Video
Notes
- Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of sugar in this recipe. Start with 1 tablespoon, then taste and add more if needed.
- Control the Heat: If you're sensitive to spice, feel free to omit the red chili peppers or use a milder variety. On the other hand, if you love heat, you can add extra peppers or even a dash of chili oil.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil is key to capturing the authentic flavor of Three Cup Chicken. Don’t skip it, as it adds a bright and fragrant finish to the dish.
Nutrition
Calories: 900kcal