Jade Dragon Bites

Originating from the rich culinary traditions of Asia, Jade Dragon Bites are a fusion dish that brings together the fiery and fresh flavors of the East. Inspired by ancient mythological dragon lore, these bites aim to bring a powerful and harmonious balance of taste and texture to your table. From their vibrant green hue reminiscent of jade to their spicy punch, these bites are designed to be both eye-catching and palate-pleasing, offering an exciting adventure for your senses.

Ingredients

• Chicken Breast - 500g, diced
• Soy Sauce - 2 tablespoons
• Ginger - 1 inch, grated
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Green Bell Pepper - 1, sliced
• Red Chili - 1, finely sliced
• Spring Onion - 3 stalks, chopped
• Sesame Oil - 1 tablespoon
• Cornstarch - 1 tablespoon
• Honey - 1 tablespoon
• Lime - 1, juiced
• Cilantro - a handful, chopped
• Jasmine Rice - to serve

Preparation

Before you begin creating your Jade Dragon Bites, it's important to prepare all your ingredients. Start by dicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This ensures quicker cooking and the ideal mouthful size when eating. In a bowl, combine the diced chicken, soy sauce, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Let this marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse the chicken with flavors. While the chicken is marinating, prepare your vegetables. Slice the green bell pepper into thin strips, finely slice the red chili, and chop the spring onions. Keep these aside till it's time to cook.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Sautéing the Ingredients

Begin by heating a pan over medium heat and adding the sesame oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces. Stir fry them for about 4-5 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through and slightly browned. For precise timing, set a cooking timer to not overcook the chicken.

Step 2: Adding Vegetables

Next, add the sliced green bell pepper and red chili to the pan. Stir fry for another 3 minutes to keep the vegetables crisp and vibrant.

Step 3: Creating the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water to make a slurry. Pour this into the pan, stirring well until the sauce thickens. Add a tablespoon of honey and the juice of a lime to give the dish a sweet and tangy finish.

Step 4: Garnishing

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the spring onions and cilantro over the top. This will provide a fresh, aromatic layer to your Jade Dragon Bites.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your Jade Dragon Bites over a bed of steaming jasmine rice, which perfectly complements the bold flavors of the dish. Garnish with additional cilantro or a wedge of lime for added flavor. These bites can be enjoyed as a main course or served as an appetizer for your next dinner party. Pair with a light white wine or green tea for the ultimate dining experience.