Braised Abalone with Chicken

Braised Abalone with Chicken is a luxurious dish often served during special occasions and celebrations, particularly in Asian cuisine. Known for its tender and flavorful abalone combined with succulent chicken, this dish exemplifies the art of braising—a cooking method that imparts rich flavors and a satisfying texture.

History of Braised Abalone with Chicken

The preparation of abalone has a rich history in various coastal regions, prominently in China, Japan, and Korea. Considered a delicacy, abalone was traditionally reserved for the elite and was often gifted to emperors and royalty. Over centuries, with improved cultivation techniques, abalone became more accessible, though it remains a sought-after ingredient for festive and luxurious meals. Pairing it with chicken is relatively modern, offering a beautiful synergy of land and sea flavors.

Ingredients

• Abalone - 500g, cleaned
• Chicken - 1kg, cut into pieces
• Soy Sauce - 3 tablespoons
• Ginger - a 3-inch piece, sliced
• Garlic - 5 cloves, minced
• Spring Onions - 3, chopped
• Chicken Broth - 2 cups
• Oyster Sauce - 2 tablespoons
• White Pepper - to taste
• Cornstarch - 1 tablespoon mixed with 2 tablespoons of water
• Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - to taste

Preparation

Before proceeding with the cooking, ensure all the ingredients are prepared correctly. This involves cleaning and cutting the chicken into pieces, cleaning the abalone, and slicing the ginger.

Instructions

1. Begin by heating oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the ginger and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
3. Introduce the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, stirring well to coat the chicken.
5. Add the abalone to the pot, followed by the chicken broth.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it braise for approximately 1.5 hours.
7. After braising, check the softness of the abalone and the tenderness of the chicken. They should both be tender and flavorful.
8. If necessary, adjust the seasoning with salt and white pepper.
9. Stir in the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce, cooking for a further 5 minutes until the sauce reaches the desired consistency.
10. Finally, garnish with spring onions before serving.

Cooking Time

The braising process is critical to achieving the right tenderness in this recipe. Utilize a cooking timer to ensure each step is followed precisely.

Serving and Enjoyment

Serve the Braised Abalone with Chicken hot, preferably over steamed rice or noodles. The rich, umami flavors of the abalone and chicken pair beautifully with simple sides. Consider a light vegetable dish as an accompaniment to balance the meal.

This dish is best enjoyed as a centerpiece of a celebratory feast, allowing diners to appreciate the complex flavors and textures that have melded together during the braising process. Relish the tender meat and the savory sauce with each bite, making this dining experience truly memorable.