Beggar's Chicken Recipe
A famous baked dish traditionally wrapped in clay and leaves, offering a unique flavor due to the cooking method.
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Ingredients
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Main Ingredients
Additional Ingredients
Method
Preparation and Marination
- 1
Prepare the Chicken
Clean the whole chicken thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels.
- 2
Make the Marinade
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, five-spice powder, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Mix well to create a marinade.
- 3
Marinate the Chicken
Rub the marinade all over the chicken, ensuring it gets under the skin. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Wrapping and Cooking
- 4
Prepare the Leaves
Soak the lotus leaves or banana leaves in warm water for about 30 minutes until pliable. Drain and pat dry.
- 5
Wrap the Chicken
Lay the soaked leaves flat and place the marinated chicken in the center. Fold the leaves over the chicken, wrapping it tightly. If using clay, wrap the leaves around the chicken and seal with the clay, ensuring no gaps.
- 6
Bake the Chicken
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the wrapped chicken on a baking tray and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serving
- 7
Unwrap and Serve
Carefully unwrap the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. Serve hot with rice or steamed vegetables.
