How to Make Thai-Style Deep-Fried Chicken with Herbs
Thai-style deep-fried chicken is a crispy and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Thai cuisine. This recipe combines the aromatic flavors of fresh herbs and spices, creating a delicious meal that pairs well with rice or can be enjoyed on its own. Follow the steps below to make your own Thai-style deep-fried chicken at home.
Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken (cut into pieces)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
- 2 tablespoons coriander roots (or stems, chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup rice flour
- Oil for deep frying
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped coriander roots, fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, white pepper, and turmeric powder. Mix well to create a marinade.
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor.
Prepare for Frying
After marinating, take the chicken out of the refrigerator. In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour and rice flour together. This flour mixture will give the chicken its signature crispy texture.
Coat each piece of marinated chicken with the flour mixture, shaking off any excess flour. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crunchy coating.
Deep Fry the Chicken
In a deep frying pan or wok, heat the oil over medium heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of the flour mixture into the oil; if it sizzles, it's ready.
Fry the chicken pieces in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each piece for about 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
Once all the chicken is cooked, serve it hot with a side of jasmine rice or sticky rice. This dish pairs wonderfully with a dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce or a homemade spicy sauce made from crushed chilies, lime juice, and fish sauce.
For added authenticity, garnish your Thai-style deep-fried chicken with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color to your plate.
Conclusion
Making Thai-style deep-fried chicken at home is a simple yet rewarding experience. With its crunchy exterior and succulent interior, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the rich flavors of Thailand with each crispy bite!