Flavors from Around the World: Broiled Chicken with Dashi Stock and Pecan Crunch

Discover a culinary masterpiece that combines the essence of international flavors with the comforting warmth of traditional dishes. This Broiled Chicken with Dashi Stock and Pecan Crunch is a delightful fusion that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests. With the umami richness of dashi, the nuttiness of pecans, and aromatic spices, this recipe is a must-try for any gourmet enthusiast.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup dashi stock (homemade or store-bought)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons mirin
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

For the Pecan Crunch:

• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Garnishes:

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds
• Fresh cilantro leaves

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together dashi stock, soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, honey, and red pepper flakes.
2. Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

Step 2: Preparing the Pecan Crunch

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, sea salt, and smoked paprika. Toss until the pecans are evenly coated.
3. Spread the pecan mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden and fragrant, stirring halfway through. Remove from the oven and let it cool. The mixture will harden as it cools.

Step 3: Broiling the Chicken

1. Preheat your broiler on high. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Place the chicken skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Broil the chicken for about 15-18 minutes or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Halfway through the cooking time, consider basting the chicken with additional marinade for enhanced flavor.

Step 4: Assembly and Serving

1. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
2. Generously sprinkle the pecan crunch over the broiled chicken.
3. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: When choosing dashi stock, opt for a high-quality brand or consider making your own using kombu and bonito flakes for a true umami experience.
• Marinating Time: For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the dashi and spices to penetrate the meat deeply.
• Pecan Variations: Feel free to experiment with different nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts, or add spices such as cayenne for extra heat.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or soba noodles and a side of sautéed seasonal vegetables for a complete meal.

Flavorful Variations

For a twist on this recipe, try substituting the chicken for tofu or eggplant for a vegetarian option. Simply marinate the tofu or eggplant slices in the same dashi mixture and broil until golden.

Glossary of Terms

• Dashi: A Japanese stock made from kombu (sea kelp) and bonito flakes (dried fish), rich in umami flavor.
• Mirin: A sweet rice wine used in Japanese cooking, often for marinades and sauces.

As you embark on this culinary journey, don’t hesitate to share your creations and experiment with different flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this Broiled Chicken with Dashi Stock and Pecan Crunch is bound to become a favorite in your recipe arsenal. Happy cooking!

For more inspiration on international flavors and innovative recipes, check out this guide to umami and explore the world of dashi.

Feel free to share your thoughts or any variations you tried in the comments!