Three Cup Chicken, or San Bei Ji, is a classic Taiwanese dish known for its rich aroma and bold flavors, traditionally made with a simple combination of three key ingredients: sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice wine. These components are used in equal proportions, hence the name “three cup.” The dish also includes generous amounts of garlic and fresh basil, which infuse the chicken with an unforgettable flavor as it simmers. Ideal for a family meal or a festive gathering, Three Cup Chicken is not just a dish but a flavorful experience that’s both comforting and exotic.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on, cut into pieces
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (Chinese rice wine)
- 10 cloves garlic, peeled
- 5 slices ginger
- 1-2 red chilies, sliced (optional for extra heat)
- 1 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
Directions:
- Heat Sesame Oil:
- In a large clay pot or a deep skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger, and chilies (if using). Sauté until aromatic but not browned, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Brown the Chicken:
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken pieces to the pot. Brown the chicken on all sides to develop flavor.
- Simmer with Sauce Ingredients:
- Add the soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sugar (if using) to the pot. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has slightly thickened.
- Add Basil:
- Just before removing from heat, stir in the fresh basil leaves and let them wilt from the heat of the chicken and sauce.
- Serve:
- Serve the Three Cup Chicken hot, ideally in the pot in which it was cooked to retain its warmth. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Three Cup Chicken brings the essence of traditional Taiwanese cooking to your table with its straightforward yet deeply flavorful approach. Enjoy this beloved classic at home and savor the taste of Taiwan.
