How to Make Thai-Style Chicken with Spicy Tamarind Sauce
If you are craving a delicious and vibrant dish, making Thai-style chicken with spicy tamarind sauce is a great choice. This recipe combines tender chicken with a tangy and spicy sauce that truly captures the essence of Thai cuisine. Follow these simple steps to recreate this flavorful dish at home.
Ingredients
To serve 4 people, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar (palm sugar is preferred)
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce (adjust to taste)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Cooked jasmine rice, to serve
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of tamarind paste, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and the minced garlic. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Spicy Tamarind Sauce
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add the remaining tamarind paste, fish sauce, sugar, and chili sauce to the onions. Stir the mixture and let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and coat it with the spicy tamarind sauce. Cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
To serve, place the chicken on a plate and drizzle with any remaining sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Pair this dish with fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also add a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Adjust the spice level according to your preference by modifying the amount of chili sauce used.
- Feel free to substitute chicken thighs with chicken breast for a leaner option.
- If tamarind paste is unavailable, you can use lime juice as an alternative, though it will create a slightly different flavor.
This Thai-style chicken with spicy tamarind sauce is not only easy to make but also brings a taste of Thailand right to your kitchen. Enjoy your culinary adventure!