Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or lengthy prep time? Then look no further than this incredibly flavorful and easy Crispy Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry! This recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures, all coming together in a vibrant and satisfying dish. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy ingredient lists; this recipe is surprisingly simple, utilizing pantry staples and readily available ingredients to create a truly unforgettable experience. The perfectly crisp chicken and tender vegetables are coated in a rich, nutty sauce that clings beautifully to each bite.
Prepare to be amazed by how quickly you can whip up this delicious meal! Forget takeout menus and enjoy the rewarding process of creating a healthy and flavorful dinner from scratch. Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Let's get started with our step-by-step guide to making the best Crispy Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry you've ever tasted.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Bowl
Ingredients
- Chicken
- Crispy Fried Flour (or wheat flour)
- Water
- Oyster Sauce
- Soy Sauce
- Granulated Sugar
- Chinese Rice Wine
- Spring Onions
- Three-color Bell Peppers
- Onions
- Mango Seeds (fried)
- Dried Chili (fried)
- Cashew Nuts
- Oil
- Fish Sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate
- Prepare ingredients. Chop bell peppers and onions. Fry dried chilies and mango seeds if not pre-fried.
- Marinate chicken with oyster sauce, soy sauce, a little fish sauce and Chinese rice wine.
Step 2. Fry Chicken and Vegetables
- Mix crispy fried flour with water (or use wheat flour). Dip chicken pieces into the batter, ensuring they don't stick together, and fry until golden and crispy in hot oil over medium heat. Fry in batches for best results.
- Stir-fry bell peppers and onions briefly in hot oil to reduce pungency and add shine. Set aside.
Step 3. Make the Sauce and Combine
- In the same pan, add water or a little soup and bring to a boil.
- Season the boiling liquid with oyster sauce, light soy sauce, Chinese rice wine, granulated sugar, and pepper.
- Simmer until boiling, then add the stir-fried bell peppers and onions.
- Add the crispy fried chicken, cashew nuts, and fried dried chilies. Stir-fry over high heat.
Step 4. Serve
- Sprinkle chopped spring onions, stir briefly, and serve immediately.
Read more: Thai Basil Pork: A Quick & Easy Recipe (with Fried Egg!)
Tips
- Fry chicken in batches to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Use medium heat for frying chicken to avoid burning the batter and ensure the chicken is cooked through.
- If using wheat flour, the chicken might be blander, so marinate it well.
- Don't be afraid of the Chinese rice wine; the alcohol will evaporate during cooking, leaving only a fragrant aroma.
- Use high heat for the final stir-fry to ensure everything is well-combined and the chicken remains crispy.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-700
- Fat: 35-45g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 30-40g
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe without the congee?
Absolutely! The stir-fry is delicious on its own. Simply omit the congee portion of the recipe and serve the chicken and vegetables over rice or noodles.
2. What can I substitute for cashews?
While cashews provide a unique flavor and texture, you can substitute with peanuts, macadamia nuts, or even toasted sesame seeds for a different nutty crunch.
3. How do I keep the chicken crispy?
Ensure your chicken is fully dried before cooking. Use a high heat and don't overcrowd the pan when stir-frying. This allows for even browning and crispiness.
This Crispy Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry with Congee recipe is a perfect weeknight meal, offering a satisfying blend of textures and flavors. From the crispy chicken to the comforting congee, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delicious results of your culinary efforts!