The origin of “Little Chicken Stewed with Mushrooms (小鸡炖蘑菇)” can be traced back to the ancient Manchu culture. During this time, the Manchu people led a hunting-based lifestyle. To make the most of the wild chickens and mushrooms they hunted and gathered in the forests, they created this dish, combining the tender chicken with the aromatic mushrooms to create a flavor that is unforgettable. Over centuries, this dish evolved and became a staple not only in the Manchu hunting tradition but also as one of the representative dishes of northeastern China. It is said that this dish first became popular during the Qing Dynasty, when northeastern China was the birthplace of the Qing Empire, and many royal families lived there. The unique flavor and rich texture of “Little Chicken Stewed with Mushrooms” quickly made it a common dish on the tables of the aristocracy. Over time, it gradually moved from the noble dining table to become a part of daily life for ordinary people in northeastern China.
Main Ingredients and Cooking Methods
Main Ingredients: The key ingredients for this dish include chicken, mushrooms, and seasonings such as scallions, ginger, and star anise. For the chicken, it is best to use free-range or young chickens (referred to as “tóngzi jī” in Chinese), as their meat is tenderer and more flavorful. The mushrooms should ideally be wild hazel mushrooms, which have a strong fragrance that enhances the flavor of the chicken. Depending on the region and season, other types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or matsutake, may also be used.
Cooking Method: The cooking process is relatively simple, but it requires attention to timing and seasoning combinations. Here’s the general method:
- First, clean and cut the chicken into chunks, and soak the mushrooms in warm water to rehydrate them before washing.
- Heat a pot, add a small amount of oil, and fry the chicken pieces until they change color.
- Add scallions, ginger, star anise, and season with salt, soy sauce, sugar, and cooking wine. Stir everything together, then add enough water to cover the chicken. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Finally, add the mushrooms to the pot, and continue to stew on medium heat for 30 to 40 minutes. During the stewing process, be careful to control the heat to prevent the broth from evaporating completely or the chicken from becoming overcooked.
Taste and Flavor
“Little Chicken Stewed with Mushrooms” is known for its delicious taste and rich broth. The chicken becomes tender and juicy after simmering, absorbing the subtle fragrance of the mushrooms and the seasoning. The mushrooms retain their unique aroma and texture, blending harmoniously with the chicken to create a distinct flavor profile. Additionally, the dish has a balanced combination of savory and slightly sweet flavors, making the overall taste even richer and more complex.
