Chicken is a versatile, lean protein that can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from stir-fries to curries to salads. One way to ensure that your chicken is tender and succulent is by using a cooking technique known as velveting.
Velveting is a Chinese cooking method that involves marinating the chicken in a mixture of cornstarch, egg whites, and sometimes a bit of oil, before cooking it briefly in hot oil or water. This technique helps to seal in the chicken’s natural juices and gives it a tender, velvety texture. While the process may seem daunting at first, it’s actually quite simple to master with a few easy-to-follow steps.
To velvet chicken, start by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 egg white, and 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and stir to coat them evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to cook it. There are two common methods for velveting chicken: stir-frying or blanching.
If you prefer to stir-fry the chicken, heat a wok or skillet over high heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil. When the oil is hot, add the chicken in a single layer and cook until it turns white and is just barely cooked through, about 1-2 minutes. Remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside.
If you prefer to blanch the chicken, bring a pot of water to a boil and add the chicken in batches. Let the chicken cook for 2-3 minutes, then remove it from the pot and drain it.
After velveting the chicken using either method, you can now use it in your favorite recipes. Whether you’re making a stir-fry, a curry, or a salad, your chicken will be tender and delicious.
Velveting chicken is a simple and effective technique that can take your cooking to a whole new level. By following these easy steps, you can master the art of velveting chicken and create mouthwatering dishes that are sure to impress. Give it a try and see the difference it makes in the texture and flavor of your chicken dishes!