Introduction
Indulging in a flavorful meal doesn’t always have to be complicated. This Spicy Cashew Chicken Stir Fry is a deliciously easy dish that combines the crunch of cashews with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is packed with taste and a bit of heat that will satisfy your hunger and elevate your culinary experience.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Spicy Cashew Sauce:
– 1 cup roasted, salted cashews
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
– 1 clove garlic
– 1 teaspoon chili paste (adjust to taste)
– Juice of 1 lime
For the Chicken Stir Fry:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons red curry paste
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
For Serving:
– Steamed rice
– Steamed broccoli
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
– Lime wedges (optional)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Enjoy your meal!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Spicy Cashew Sauce:
– Combine all sauce ingredients (roasted cashews, water, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, garlic, chili paste, and lime juice) in a blender.
– Blend until smooth and creamy.
– Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as necessary, such as adding more chili paste for heat or honey for sweetness.
– Set the sauce aside for later use.
Prepare the Chicken:
– In a mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced chicken with cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
– Toss until all chicken pieces are evenly coated in the mixture.
Cook the Chicken:
– Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
– Add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet in a single layer.
– Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
– Incorporate red curry paste and brown sugar into the skillet, stirring well to coat the chicken evenly.
– Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to caramelize.
Assemble the Dish:
– Serve the cooked chicken over a bed of steamed rice.
– Arrange steamed broccoli on the side of the plate.
– Generously drizzle the prepared spicy cashew sauce over the chicken.
– Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
Ingredient Tips:
– Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor in the sauce.
– Adjust the level of chili paste depending on your spice preference.
Storage:
– Leftover spicy cashew sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
– Cooked chicken can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
– This dish pairs well with steamed rice, but feel free to use quinoa or noodles for a variation.
– Adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers or snap peas, can enhance the stir fry.
Cook techniques
Blending
To create the Spicy Cashew Sauce, use a blender to combine all the ingredients until smooth. This technique ensures a creamy consistency and helps to fully incorporate flavors.
Coating
Before cooking, coat the chicken slices with a mixture of cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps create a crispy outer layer when cooked.
Searing
Heat vegetable oil in a skillet before adding the coated chicken. This technique ensures a quick and even browning, sealing in the juices for a tender result.
Caramelizing
After cooking the chicken, add the red curry paste and brown sugar to the skillet. Cooking them together for a few minutes helps to caramelize the sugars, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
Assembling
Layer the steamed rice in a bowl, place the cooked chicken on top, and finish with the steamed broccoli. This method not only looks appealing but also allows the flavors to meld together.
FAQ
Can I substitute raw cashews for roasted ones in the sauce?
Yes, but you may need to roast them briefly before blending to achieve a similar flavor profile.
What can I use instead of soy sauce?
You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos as a soy sauce substitute.
How do I adjust the spice level of the sauce?
You can add more or less chili paste to the sauce according to your heat preference.
Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or beef, adjusting cooking times as necessary.
What can I serve if I don’t have broccoli?
You can substitute broccoli with bell peppers, snap peas, or any other preferred vegetables.
Conclusion
This Spicy Cashew Chicken Stir Fry combines crispy chicken with a rich and flavorful cashew sauce, creating a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. The balance of flavors—from the sweetness of honey and brown sugar to the kick of chili paste—makes it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner. Pairing it with steamed rice and broccoli not only adds nutrition but also complements the overall taste. Enjoy this delightful and vibrant dish with friends and family!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cashew Vegetable Stir Fry
Substitute chicken with a mix of your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots for a delicious vegetarian option.
Spicy Cashew Noodles
Toss cooked noodles with the spicy cashew sauce and add sautéed vegetables for a quick and flavorful meal.
Honey Garlic Shrimp
Replace chicken with shrimp, using the same sauce for a different seafood twist that is equally delectable.
Grilled Chicken Tacos
Use the chicken stir fry in soft tortillas, topping with spicy cashew sauce, lettuce, and diced tomatoes for a unique taco experience.
Veggie and Cashew Spring Rolls
Fill rice paper wraps with fresh vegetables and serve with the spicy cashew sauce as a dipping sauce for a light and refreshing appetizer.
