hmong cabbage and chicken recipe
This easy and flavorful Hmong cabbage and chicken recipe brings together tender chicken, fresh cabbage, and aromatic spices. It's a simple yet delicious dish that’s perfect for any meal, packed with savory flavors and a hint of ginger and garlic. Ideal for a quick dinner or a healthy family meal, this recipe will transport you to the heart of traditional Hmong cuisine.
Ingredients
- Chicken boneless, skinless thighs or breasts: 500 grams (approximately 2-3 chicken breasts or 4-5 chicken thighs)
- Napa cabbage or regular cabbage: 1 medium-sized head about 500 to 600 grams, chopped into thin strips or small pieces
- Garlic minced: 3 large cloves
- Fresh ginger minced: 1 teaspoon
- Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Vegetable oil such as sesame oil or olive oil: 1-2 tablespoons
- Salt: to taste about 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground black pepper: to taste about 1/4 teaspoon
- Fresh cilantro leaves optional: a small handful for garnish
Instructions
- Preparing the Cabbage: Start by washing the cabbage thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities. Remove the outer leaves if they are damaged or not fresh. Chop the cabbage into thin slices or small pieces according to your preference. If you prefer a bit of crunch in the dish, you can leave the pieces larger. After preparing, set the cabbage aside for cooking.
- Preparing the Chicken for Cooking: Cut the chicken (whether thighs or breasts) into bite-sized pieces so that it cooks quickly and absorbs flavors better. Season the chicken: Sprinkle the chicken with salt and ground black pepper. Also add 1 teaspoon of minced ginger and 3 cloves of minced garlic. Marinating the chicken (optional): If you want to enhance the flavor, you can marinate the chicken for at least two hours or overnight with a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. This will help improve the taste and absorb the spices.
- Cooking the Chicken and Cabbage: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped chicken to the pan and cook until it turns golden and is fully cooked. Once the chicken is ready, add the cabbage to the pan and cook together for a few minutes until the cabbage becomes tender. Season the dish by adding salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.