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Hat Yai Fried Chicken

Crispy Hat Yai Fried Chicken: A Flavorful Thai Delight

Discover the irresistible Hat Yai Fried Chicken, a Thai delicacy boasting a crispy crust and flavorful marinade.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marination Time 4 hours
Total Time 5 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4 pieces
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 4 pieces Thai Shallots Substitute with regular onions if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds Roasting enhances flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Coriander Seeds Roast for added depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Peppercorns Roasting intensifies flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Coriander Root Substitute with fresh cilantro stems if necessary.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Use fresh or roasted for sweetness.
  • 0.5 tablespoon Palm Sugar Brown sugar works as a substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce Soy sauce can be a vegetarian alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust based on preference.
  • 1 cup Ice-Cold Water Helps tenderize chicken for a crispy crust.
For the Coating
  • 6 tablespoons Tempura Flour Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
For Frying
  • Oil Use oils like peanut or canola with a high smoke point.
For Serving
  • Sticky Rice Perfect accompaniment.
  • Dipping Sauces Options like Thai sweet chili sauce for added flavor.

Equipment

  • deep fryer
  • mixing bowl
  • Skillet
  • Meat thermometer
  • Mortar and Pestle or Spice Grinder
  • Paper Towels

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare Fried Shallots: Thinly slice the Thai shallots and sprinkle with salt. Rest for 10 minutes, pat dry, and fry in oil until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.
  2. Toast Spices: Toast cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and black peppercorns in a dry skillet over medium heat for 20 seconds until aromatic.
  3. Make Marinade: Mix ground spices with garlic to form a paste, then add palm sugar, fish sauce, and salt. Incorporate tempura flour and ice-cold water.
  4. Marinate Chicken: Prepare chicken by cutting into drumsticks, coat with marinade, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  5. Fry Chicken: Heat oil to 350°F - 375°F and fry marinated chicken in batches for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve crispy chicken warm with sticky rice, dipping sauces, and garnished with fried shallots.

Notes

Marination enhances the flavor. Maintain frying temperature for the best results.