Salt-baked chicken, or 盐焗鸡 in Chinese, is a signature dish that showcases the depth and subtlety of Chinese culinary art. This method of cooking chicken by encasing it in salt not only preserves the bird’s natural juices but also infuses it with a unique salty-sweet flavor profile. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this delectable dish.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 whole organic chicken (approximately 2 kg)
– Rock salt or sea salt (enough to cover the chicken)
– Ginger slices
– Spring onions
– Sichuan peppercorns (optional for added aroma)
– Soy sauce
– Shaoxing wine
– Cooking oil
**Preparation:**
1. **Preparing the Chicken:**
– Thoroughly clean the chicken, removing any innards and excess fat. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
– Marinate the chicken for at least an hour in a mixture of soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, ginger slices, spring onions, and a dash of cooking oil. This blend will impart rich flavors into the meat.
2. **Baking Salt Layer:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
– Spread a thick layer of rock salt on the bottom of a large baking tray or casserole dish. This salt bed will be the heat conductor and insulator, evenly cooking the chicken without direct contact.
3. **Wrapping the Chicken:**
– Take out the marinated chicken from the marinade, shaking off any loose ingredients. Wrap the chicken tightly in aluminum foil to prevent salt seeping directly into the meat while still allowing the steam to cook the chicken through.
4. **Baking the Chicken:**
– Place the wrapped chicken on top of the salt layer in the preheated oven. Surround the chicken with more salt so it’s entirely covered, forming a protective crust.
– Bake for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the size of the chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when checked with a food thermometer.
5. **Resting and Serving:**
– Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the salt crust, unwrap it, and let it rest for about 10 minutes. The residual heat will continue to cook the chicken, ensuring tender and juicy meat.
– Discard the salt and brush off any excess salt clinging to the chicken skin. Serve hot, garnished with fresh ginger and scallions if desired.
The salt-baked chicken is not only delicious but also visually striking due to its succulent texture and golden hue. It’s a testament to the ancient wisdom of Chinese cuisine, where simplicity meets sophistication in a single dish. Enjoy this traditional delicacy with family and friends, relishing the essence of Chinese gastronomy.