Forget everything you think you know about chicken stew! This recipe for Soup-Free Spicy Chicken Stew delivers a bold, intensely flavorful experience without relying on a traditional broth. We're embracing the power of direct seasoning and a unique braising technique to create tender, succulent chicken drenched in a vibrant, spicy sauce. This isn't your grandma's chicken stew; it's a fiery, flavorful adventure for your taste buds, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Expect a depth of flavor you won't believe possible without a simmering pot of broth.
This recipe masterfully balances sweet, savory, and spicy notes, resulting in a dish that's both complex and satisfyingly easy to make. We'll utilize readily available ingredients to craft a dish that's surprisingly simple to execute yet delivers restaurant-quality results. Ready to embark on this culinary journey? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to create your own unforgettable Soup-Free Spicy Chicken Stew.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Torch (optional)
Ingredients
- Chicken
- Potatoes
- Carrots
- Cabbage
- Onion
- Rice Cakes (Tteok)
- Purple Cabbage
- Water
- Red Pepper Powder (Gochugaru)
- Sugar
- Soy Sauce
- Corn Syrup
- Red Pepper Paste (Gochujang)
- Minced Garlic
- Cooking Soju
- Ketchup
- Oyster Sauce
- Beef Broth
- Pepper
- Green Onions
- Green Chili Peppers
- Red Chili Peppers
- Sesame Seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Sear the Chicken and Vegetables
- Put the chicken, potatoes, and carrots in the pan and cook them.
- Cut the chicken leg meat into pieces if it's thicker than other parts.
- Lightly burn the chicken surface with a torch for a smoky flavor (optional).
- When the chicken is golden brown, add the cabbage, onion, and rice cakes to the pan.
Step 2. Make and Add the Spicy Sauce
- Purple cabbage, water, red pepper powder, sugar, soy sauce, corn syrup, red pepper paste, minced garlic, cooking soju, ketchup, oyster sauce, beef broth, and pepper. Mix well.
- Pour the seasoning mixture into the pan with the chicken and vegetables.
Step 3. Braising and Simmering
- Stir-fry continuously to prevent burning; the vegetables will release water.
Step 4. Finishing Touches
- Add green onions, green chili peppers, and red chili peppers.
- Mix well, and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Read more: Instant Pot Chinese Beef Brisket Stew (蘿蔔燜牛腩) - Easy Recipe
Tips
- If the spicy braised chicken tastes ambiguous, add more sugar.
- Use plenty of garlic for enhanced flavor.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in or boneless chicken thighs?
Either works! Bone-in will yield richer flavor, but boneless is quicker to cook.
2. What kind of chili paste should I use?
Gochujang is the traditional choice, offering a sweet and savory heat. You can adjust the amount to your spice preference.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors actually deepen overnight. Reheat gently before serving.
This soup-free spicy braised chicken offers a unique and flavorful twist on a classic dish, showcasing the versatility of Korean flavors. The result is a tender, intensely flavorful chicken that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to prepare. Enjoy this exciting culinary journey, and don't hesitate to experiment with different spice levels to find your perfect balance!