Chiang Mai Ember Bites
Chiang Mai Ember Bites are a delightful culinary creation inspired by the vibrant flavors of Northern Thailand. This dish brings together the rich heritage of Thai cooking with a modern twist, creating an irresistible flavor profile that has been cherished for generations in the region of Chiang Mai. Known for its balance of sweet, spicy, sour, and salty flavors, this dish encapsulates the essence of Thai cuisine in each bite.
Historical Background
Chiang Mai, a city nestled in the mountainous region of Northern Thailand, is known for its unique culinary traditions which blend influences from neighboring Myanmar, Laos, and Yunnan Province in China. The cuisine here often focuses on grilled and charred meats, abundant herbs, and aromatic spices. The emergence of Ember Bites can trace its roots to traditional cooking techniques that utilize open flames, imparting a signature smoky flavor that has become synonymous with the local fare.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) - 500g
- Fish sauce - 3 tablespoons
- Soy sauce - 2 tablespoons
- Brown sugar - 1 tablespoon
- Garlic cloves (minced) - 4 cloves
- Ginger (grated) - 1 tablespoon
- Lemongrass (finely chopped) - 2 stalks
- Lime juice - from 2 limes
- Coconut milk - 1/2 cup
- Cooked sticky rice - 2 cups
- Red chili flakes - 1 teaspoon
- Fresh cilantro (chopped) - for garnish
- Oil for grilling
- Salt - to taste
- Pepper - to taste
Preparation
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine the fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic cloves, ginger, lemongrass, and lime juice. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for optimal flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Grilled Ember Bites
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking. Grill the chicken skewers for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are charred and cooked through. Use a cooking timer (check time here) to ensure precise grilling.
Cooking Process
Step 3: Final Touches
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skewers and toss it with the residual marinade in a separate bowl. Return the tossed chicken to the grill for an additional 2 minutes to enhance the smoky flavor and caramelization.
Step 4: Serve the Ember Bites
While the chicken is resting, lightly warm the coconut milk in a small saucepan until just heated through. Serve the cooked sticky rice onto a platter and arrange the grilled chicken bites on top, drizzling the coconut milk over the dish. Garnish with a sprinkle of red chili flakes and chopped fresh cilantro.
Enjoying Chiang Mai Ember Bites
Chiang Mai Ember Bites are best enjoyed fresh off the grill for their optimal smoky-charred flavor. They serve as a perfect appetizer or main course, accompanied by a side of vibrant mango salad or a cool cucumber relish. Pair the dish with a chilled Thai beer or a glass of sweet iced tea to balance the fiery spice.