Chamorro Fiesta Plate
Introduction to Chamorro Fiesta Plate
The Chamorro Fiesta Plate is a vibrant and flavorful dish deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of the Chamorro people from the Mariana Islands. With Spanish, Asian, and indigenous influences, this dish represents a rich tapestry of flavors that come together to create an unforgettable dining experience. Traditionally served during festive occasions and gatherings, the Chamorro Fiesta Plate is a delightful assortment of grilled barbecue chicken, succulent red rice, crispy kelaguen, and a refreshing fina'denne dip. Let's dive into the history and savor the tradition of Chamorro cuisine.
Ingredients
Barbecue Chicken Ingredients
- Chicken breasts - 4 pieces
- Soy sauce - 1/2 cup
- Vinegar - 1/4 cup
- Brown sugar - 3 tablespoons
- Garlic, minced - 4 cloves
- Black pepper - 1 teaspoon
- Onion powder - 1 teaspoon
Red Rice Ingredients
- Rice - 2 cups
- Achiote water - 1 cup
- Chopped green onions - 1/2 cup
- Garlic, minced - 2 cloves
- Salt - to taste
Kelaguen Ingredients
- Chicken breast - 2 pieces, cooked and shredded
- Lemon juice - 1/2 cup
- Onions, finely chopped - 1/2 cup
- Red chili peppers - 2, chopped
- Grated coconut - 1/2 cup
- Salt - to taste
Fina'denne Ingredients
- Soy sauce - 1/2 cup
- Lemon juice - 1/4 cup
- Chopped onions - 1/4 cup
- Chopped green chilis - 1 tablespoon
- Tomatoes, diced - 1/2 cup
Preparation and Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Barbecue Chicken
To prepare the barbecue chicken, first combine the soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, black pepper, and onion powder in a large mixing bowl. This marinade will infuse the chicken with an aromatic and savory flavor. Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly. After marinating, remove the chicken from the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Grill each side for approximately 6-7 minutes, or until juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For precise timing, refer to this cooking timer link.
Cooking Red Rice
In a medium-sized pot, heat the achiote water over medium heat until warm. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in the rice, ensuring the grains are evenly coated with the achiote. Add salt to taste and pour enough water (approximately 3 cups) into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed. If you prefer a more vibrant color, stir in additional achiote water halfway through the cooking process. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit for another 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and mix in the chopped green onions.
Making the Kelaguen
In a large bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken with the lemon juice, finely chopped onions, chopped red chili peppers, and grated coconut. Season with salt to taste. Mix thoroughly, ensuring every piece of chicken is coated with the ingredients. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. The acidity from the lemon juice "cooks" the chicken further, enhancing its flavor.
Preparing Fina'denne
To create a classic fina'denne dipping sauce, simply combine the soy sauce, lemon juice, chopped onions, chopped green chilis, and diced tomatoes in a bowl. Stir well and adjust the taste by adding more lemon juice or soy sauce as per preference. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Assembling and Enjoying
Now that each component of the dish is ready, it's time to assemble your Chamorro Fiesta Plate. Start by placing a generous serving of red rice on one side of the plate. Add a portion of kelaguen, followed by the succulent grilled barbecue chicken. To balance the flavors and add a touch of freshness, serve the fina'denne dipping sauce alongside. Enjoy each bite, savoring the amalgamation of spices and textures that define Chamorro cuisine. The Chamorro Fiesta Plate is not just a meal; it's an invitation to experience the culture and heritage of the Mariana Islands.