Chiang Mai Lanna Spice Fusion

Background and History

Chiang Mai Lanna Spice Fusion is a celebration of Northern Thai cuisine, known for its unique blend of herbs and spices 🌿. This dish draws inspiration from the rich culinary traditions of the Lanna Kingdom, which was established in the 13th century in what is now Northern Thailand. The region's cuisine is influenced by neighboring countries like Myanmar, Laos, and China, creating a diverse palette of flavors. The use of fresh ingredients like ginger, lemongrass, and coriander is a hallmark of this cuisine, adding depth and complexity to every bite.

Ingredients

• Chicken – 500 grams, boneless and skinless
• Ginger – 2 tablespoons, minced
• Lemongrass – 2 stalks, finely chopped
• Coriander – 1 cup, chopped
• Lime – 2 limes, juiced
• Coconut Milk – 400 ml
• Chili Paste – 3 tablespoons
• Soy Sauce – 2 tablespoons
• Fish Sauce – 1 tablespoon
• Kaffir Lime Leaves – 5 leaves, thinly sliced
• Shallots – 3 shallots, sliced
• Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
• Palm Sugar – 1 tablespoon
• Rice – to serve

Preparation

Start by preparing the chicken. Cut it into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Prepare all the aromatics: mince the ginger, chop the lemongrass, slice the shallots, and mince the garlic. Slice the kaffir lime leaves thinly and juice the limes.

Cooking Process

1. Heat a large pan over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and sauté the shallots, ginger, and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook until they turn golden brown.
3. Stir in the chili paste and fry for another minute.
4. Add the chopped lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves, and stir well.
5. Pour in the coconut milk, soy sauce, and fish sauce. Stir the mixture until it is well combined.
6. Add the palm sugar, ensuring it dissolves completely, balancing the flavors.
7. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld. Simmer for approximately 15-20 minutes. Use a cooking timer to keep track of the time.
8. Once the chicken is cooked, add the chopped coriander and the juice of the limes. Stir well.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Chiang Mai Lanna Spice Fusion hot over a bed of steamed jasmine rice. Garnish with additional coriander if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh vegetables or a simple salad to complement the rich and aromatic flavors. Enjoy the fusion of spices as the chicken absorbs the zest of ginger and lemongrass, creating a delectable meal perfect for any occasion.

How to Enjoy

This dish is best enjoyed in the company of good friends or family, allowing the vibrant flavors to spark conversation and delight. Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine or an iced Thai tea for an authentic experience. As this fusion dish contains a blend of bold and savory spices, a light dessert like coconut sorbet can provide a refreshing finish to your meal.