Ingredients

1 cup sugar
1 cup white vinegar
1/2 cup fish sauce
1/4 cup chopped garlic
1/4 cup chopped Thai chile
1 lb chicken thigh , chopped into 3/4-inch cubes , removing fat and tendons
1 cup sugar
1 cup white vinegar
1/2 cup fish sauce
1/4 cup chopped garlic
1/4 cup chopped Thai chile
1 1/2 cups Thai sweet chili sauce , such as Mae Ploy
2 cups cornstarch
canola oil or vegetable oil , for frying
1/2 cup sliced jalapeno , thinly sliced on mandolin
1/2 cup sliced yellow onion , quartered and thinly sliced on mandolin
1/2 tablespoon salt
1 bunch fresh cilantro , leaves picked , for garnish
1/4 bunch fresh basil , leaves picked , for garnish
1/4 bunch of fresh mint , leaves picked , for garnish
Thai Chicken Kara-Age is a popular Japanese dish but has been widely adapted in Thai cuisine. The dish originated from Japan but was influenced by the Thai dish, 'Larb Gai' or, in English, Thai ground chicken salad. They are both dishes with similar marinade, and the Kara-Age process of frying has gained popularity with its crispy crust. It is a perfect appetizer or even a meal altogether, a combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that excite the palate.

Instructions

1.In a mixing bowl, combine sugar, white vinegar, fish sauce, garlic, and Thai chile.
2.Coat the chicken cubes in the marinade and leave to rest for 2-3 hours (or overnight in the refrigerator).
3.In a separate mixing bowl, mix cornstarch and salt.
4.Drain the chicken cubes and coat them in cornstarch mixture.
5.Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat and fry the chicken until golden brown (3-5 minutes).
6.Remove chicken cubes and drain excess oil on a paper towel.
7.In a separate skillet, combine the remaining marinade, sweet chili sauce, jalapeno, and onion. Simmer for 5 minutes.
8.Add the fried chicken cubes to the sauce and stir until well-coated.
9.Garnish with fresh cilantro, basil, and mint leaves.

PROS

Thai Chicken Kara-Age is flavored with sweet, spicy, and savory ingredients making it a well-rounded dish.
The dish has a soft interior with a crispy exterior after frying, truly a delicious treat to enjoy.

CONS

The dish requires marinating the chicken cubes, which is time-consuming.
Additionally, it’s deep-fried, which makes it high in calories and fat.

Kara-Age is delicious but should be eaten in moderation.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Thai Chicken Kara-Age has a good source of protein, which helps repair and build muscle tissue. Garlic is known to lower blood pressure, while chile pepper is said to help with digestion by increasing the metabolism and reducing inflammation.
Moderate consumption of this dish is a healthy balance in your diet.

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