If you're a fan of the delicious flavors of chicken rice, you’re likely to appreciate the unique twist found in the Bendi Ala Chicken Rice Shop recipe. This dish is a delightful fusion of tender chicken, fragrant rice, and a medley of spices and vegetables that create a satisfying meal. In this post, we will dive into an in-depth recipe, tips, and tricks to recreate this delightful dish at home.
Ingredients for Bendi Ala Chicken Rice
Before we start, let's gather all the ingredients you'll need. Here’s a comprehensive list:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
- 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
For the Rice:
- 2 cups jasmine rice (or your preferred rice)
- 4 cups chicken stock (or water)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- Salt to taste
For the Bendi (Vegetable Mix):
- 1 cup okra (bendi), sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Sliced green onions
- Cucumber slices
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Marinade the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken. In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, sugar, black pepper, and five-spice powder.
- Place the whole chicken in the marinade, making sure to coat it thoroughly, including under the skin.
- Cover and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight for the best flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice
While your chicken is marinating, you can prepare the rice.
- Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
- Add the rinsed rice, stirring for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it.
- Pour in the chicken stock (or water) and season with salt. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover.
- Cook for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is fluffy and all liquid is absorbed. Once done, let it sit covered for 5 more minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the marinated chicken in a roasting pan, breast side up.
- Roast for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the chicken with its juices every 20 minutes for extra moisture.
- Once done, allow the chicken to rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Step 4: Sauté the Bendi (Vegetable Mix)
While the chicken is roasting, prepare the bendi:
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced okra, carrots, and bell pepper. Season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp. Remove from heat.
Serving Suggestions
To serve your Bendi Ala Chicken Rice Shop dish, plate the fluffy rice alongside slices of the roasted chicken. Arrange the sautéed vegetables on the side and sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for an aromatic touch. Garnish with green onion slices and cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
Tips for Perfecting Your Bendi Ala Chicken Rice
- Marination Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it becomes. Overnight marination is highly recommended.
- Cooking Technique: Ensure that your chicken is cooked evenly. Using a meat thermometer is key to achieving the perfect internal temperature.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables according to your taste. Snow peas or broccoli can also work well.
Nutrition Facts
| Ingredient | Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken (4 oz) | 1 serving | 240 | 28 g | 0 g | 12 g |
| Jasmine Rice (1 cup) | 1 serving | 205 | 4 g | 44 g | 0 g |
| Okra (1 cup) | 1 serving | 33 | 2 g | 7 g | 0 g |
| Carrots (1 cup) | 1 serving | 52 | 1 g | 12 g | 0 g |
| Total (Approx.) | - | 530 | 35 g | 63 g | 12 g |
Conclusion
The Bendi Ala Chicken Rice Shop is not only a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction but also a wonderful opportunity to explore new flavors and cooking techniques. By following this recipe, you can recreate the essence of this beloved dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a family meal, this dish is sure to impress!
Enjoy cooking, and don't forget to share your results!
