Jiangsu Salt-baked Chicken

Background and History

Jiangsu Salt-baked Chicken is a traditional dish hailing from the Jiangsu Province in China. Known for its subtle taste and tender texture, this dish perfectly encapsulates the essence of Jiangsu cuisine which is celebrated for its balance of flavors and adherence to freshness. Historically, salt-baking is an ancient Chinese cooking method that was popularized in Guangdong but later found its influence in Jiangsu culinary practices. This technique preserves the moisture and enhances the natural flavor of the chicken, making it an exquisite dish that has been enjoyed for centuries.

Ingredients

1. Whole Chicken (around 1.5 to 2 kilograms)
2. Coarse Salt (about 3 kilograms, to create the baking crust)
3. Ginger (sliced, about 50 grams)
4. Spring Onions (approximately 3 stalks, chopped)
5. Sesame Oil (2 tablespoons)
6. Soy Sauce (3 tablespoons)
7. Shaoxing Wine (2 tablespoons)
8. Star Anise (2 pieces)
9. Cinnamon Stick (one stick)
10. Sichuan Peppercorns (1 teaspoon)
11. Bay Leaves (2 leaves)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Begin by cleaning the whole chicken thoroughly. Remove any giblets and pat dry with paper towels. Mix soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sesame oil in a bowl. Rub this marinade over the chicken, ensuring every part is covered. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with ginger slices, spring onions, and star anise.

Step 2: Preparing the Salt

Heat a large wok over medium heat and add the coarse salt. Stir in the Sichuan peppercorns, cinnamon stick, and bay leaves. Toast the salt until fragrant. This will infuse the salt with a deep aromatic profile, which enhances the chicken as it bakes. Set aside to cool.

Cooking Method

Step 1: Encasing the Chicken

Create a bed of the cooled, aromatic salt in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven. Place the marinated chicken on top, then cover completely with the remaining salt, making sure no parts are exposed. This salt crust will seal in the moisture and cook the chicken gently.

Step 2: Baking

Preheat your oven to 200°C (approximately 392°F). Place the pot in the oven and bake the chicken for 90 minutes. It’s crucial to check the time with a suitable cooking timer for precise cooking duration.

Step 3: Serving

Once cooked, carefully break the salt crust and remove the chicken. Brush off any excess salt. Chop the chicken into pieces and serve with dipping sauces of your choice, such as soy sauce or sesame oil.

Enjoying Jiangsu Salt-baked Chicken

Jiangsu Salt-baked Chicken is best enjoyed fresh from the oven. The meat is aromatic, tender, and juicy – a true testament to its rich heritage. Pair it with a side of steamed rice or as part of a larger banquet meal. This dish not only highlights the simplistic elegance of Chinese cuisine but also shows the harmony of flavors and textures that Jiangsu cuisine is famed for.