Understanding Three-Cup Chicken
Lifting the lid off a saucepan or a clay pot, you are greeted by succulent chicken bathing in a liquid symphony of savory and aromatic notes. This is three-cup chicken, known as san bei ji, a simple yet elegant one-pot dish perfect for a weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. Each saucy bite delivers a perfect balance of flavors, making this dish both comforting and satisfying.
A Glimpse into Its History
Delving into the history of three-cup chicken reveals its ancestral ties to China, tracing back as far as the Song Dynasty. This rich history allows for a personal connection that goes beyond mere dining. In a delightful twist, upon utilizing a 23andMe kit, Jake discovered his Taiwanese heritage, adding another layer to our appreciation for this dish. As our Filipino-Chinese-Taiwanese-Vietnamese-American son enjoys three-cup chicken, it serves as a culinary bridge connecting our diverse heritages.
The Secret of the “Three Cups”
The name “three-cup” comes from the three core ingredients traditionally used: sesame oil, rice wine, and soy sauce. Each plays a vital role in creating a well-rounded flavor profile. Although the term suggests using equal proportions, it’s crucial to adjust these ratios to avoid overpowering flavors that could easily serve an army instead of a family of four. By maximizing flavor while conserving more expensive ingredients like sesame oil, we ensure that the experience is both delicious and economical.
