Ingredients

1 savoy cabbage or 1 Chinese cabbage
sea salt
2 garlic cloves , peeled
1 piece fresh ginger , peeled ( thumb-sized )
6 spring onions , trimmed
1/4 cup fresh coriander
1 -2 fresh red chili pepper
1 tablespoon fish sauce
4 trimmed boneless skinless chicken thighs , roughly chopped
1 can water chestnuts
2 limes , juice and zest of
1 teaspoon sesame oil
extra virgin olive oil
sweet chili sauce
soy sauce
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
One of the most popular dishes in Chinese cuisine is the chicken parcel, also known as Zuo Zong Tang Ji. This version of the classic dish is slightly different, with the addition of vegetables wrapped in a cabbage leaf. It is typically served in restaurants as an appetizer, but it can also be enjoyed as a main course. Chicken parcels are a delicious blend of vegetables and meat wrapped and steamed in cabbage leaves. They are usually served in a pool of soy sauce with some sweet chili sauce on the side. This dish is very popular in Chinese homes, especially during the Chinese New year.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2.Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil and blanch the cabbage leaves for one minute. Drain and dry the leaves on paper towel.
3.Finely chop the garlic, ginger, coriander, chili and spring onions in a food processor. Then add fish sauce, sesame oil, lime juice and zest and mix well.
4.Heat the olive oil in a pan, add the mixture from the processor and cook for a couple of minutes until fragrant.
5.Add the chicken and cook until the chicken is browned.
6.Mix in the drained water chestnuts and let cool.
7.Divide the chicken and vegetable mixture between each cabbage leaf and wrap up like a parcel. Tie each parcel with a spring onion.
8.Place the parcels on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
9.Serve hot with sweet chili sauce and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.

PROS

A healthy, low-carb meal option that is packed with the flavors of Asia, and is perfect for those who are on a weight loss diet.
It is a great source of protein, Vitamin C, and fiber and stimulates digestion.

CONS

It is time-consuming to make and requires many ingredients.
It is important to ensure the chicken is properly cooked to avoid bacterial infections.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish is a healthier version of the classic Chinese dish, and is low in carbohydrates and fats. It is high in protein and fiber and its ingredients like garlic, ginger and chilies are known to help boost the immune system, reduce inflammation in the body, and aid in digestion. Cabbage is also considered a healthy food as it is high in Vitamin C and K, and contains compounds that can help reduce the risk of certain cancers.

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