Lanna Essence Poach
A Unique Journey into Lanna Cuisine
Lanna Essence Poach is a traditional dish from the northern region of Thailand, known as Lanna. This dish is a delightful blend of aromatic herbs, spices, and traditional ingredients that celebrate the cultural amalgamations of Northern Thai Cuisine. It is inspired by the ancient Lanna Kingdom, where cooking was an integral part of social gatherings and regional festivities.
Ingredients
- Chicken - 1 whole, cleaned and poached
- Lemon Grass - 3 stalks, chopped
- Kaffir Lime Leaves - 5 leaves, torn
- Galangal - 1 piece, sliced
- Shallots - 4, sliced
- Turmeric - 1 inch, minced
- Fish Sauce - 2 tablespoons
- Coconut Milk - 1 cup
- Water - 4 cups
- Rock Salt - 1 teaspoon
- Lime - 2, juiced
- Coriander - For garnish
Preparation
To start preparing the Lanna Essence Poach, begin by thoroughly cleaning the chicken. This is crucial to ensure that your dish remains fresh and safe to consume. Next, crush the lemon grass and tear the kaffir lime leaves to release their essential oils, which are key to adding layers of flavor to the poaching liquid. Slice the galangal thinly, as this will allow its distinct earthy notes to infuse effortlessly.
Cooking Process
Step 1: Preparing the Poaching Liquid
In a large pot, add 4 cups of water. Bring it to a gentle simmer and add in the prepared lemon grass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and shallots. Allow these to infuse for about 15 minutes on low heat, ensuring the pot is partially covered. This helps to concentrate the flavors without any aromas escaping.
Step 2: Poaching the Chicken
Add the chicken to the pot, ensuring it is fully submerged. Increase the heat slightly to bring the liquid to a gentle simmer again. Add the turmeric and simmers the chicken for 25-30 minutes or until completely cooked through. Use a cooking timer to monitor this for best results. The turmeric will enhance the color and add a subtly spicy undertone to the chicken.
Step 3: Perfecting the Essence
Once the chicken is poached, remove it from the broth and set aside. To the remaining fragrant broth, stir in the fish sauce and coconut milk. This creates a creamy yet savory essence that embodies the rich heritage of Lanna Cuisine. Adjust seasoning with rock salt and lime juice for a balanced taste.
Step 4: Serving the Dish
Carve the chicken into serving portions and pour the aromatic broth over it. Garnish with fresh coriander to add color and complementing flavors. Serve hot with steamed rice on the side to soak up the flavors.
How to Enjoy Lanna Essence Poach
Relish the Lanna Essence Poach while it's hot to truly enjoy the harmony of spices. This dish perfectly balances the aromatic and savory flavors with the richness introduced by the coconut milk. Pair it with sticky rice, which is traditional in Northern Thai food, to absorb the fragrant broth. Each bite should remind you of the expansive lush landscape and rich cultural heritage of Thailand’s Lanna region.