Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey through the vibrant flavors of the Philippines with Pininyahang Manok sa Gata - a creamy, tropical chicken dish that will transport your taste buds to a paradise of culinary excellence! This irresistible recipe combines the rich, velvety coconut milk with succulent chicken and sweet, tangy pineapple chunks, creating a symphony of flavors that will make your family beg for seconds. Whether you're a Filipino cuisine enthusiast or a curious food lover looking to explore new taste sensations, this recipe promises to be a game-changer in your cooking repertoire.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Filipino
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 can pineapple chunks
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by washing and patting it dry with paper towels. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper, ensuring even coating.
- Heat a large cooking pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of cooking oil and brown the chicken pieces until they develop a golden color on all sides. This should take approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté the minced garlic, chopped onions, and ginger until fragrant and the onions become translucent. This helps build a flavor base for the dish.
- Return the browned chicken to the pan and pour in the coconut milk. Stir to combine and ensure the chicken is well-coated with the milk.
- Add the pineapple chunks with their juice to the pan. The natural sweetness and acidity will enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Reduce heat to low-medium, cover the pan, and let the chicken simmer for approximately 30-35 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Check the chicken for doneness by ensuring the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. The sauce should have thickened slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. The sauce should have a balanced sweet and savory flavor profile.
- Serve hot with steamed white rice, garnishing with additional pineapple chunks if desired.
Tips
- Chicken Selection: Choose fresh, high-quality chicken pieces with a mix of white and dark meat for the most tender and flavorful result.
- Browning Technique: Take your time when browning the chicken. This crucial step develops a deep, rich flavor foundation for the entire dish.
- Coconut Milk Matters: Use fresh or high-quality canned coconut milk for the creamiest texture. Avoid low-fat versions that can compromise the dish's richness.
- Pineapple Perfection: If possible, use fresh pineapple chunks for a more vibrant flavor. If using canned, choose chunks in natural juice rather than heavy syrup.
- Simmering Secrets: Cook on low-medium heat and resist the urge to rush the process. Slow simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures tender chicken.
- Seasoning Balance: Taste and adjust seasonings carefully. The goal is a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve immediately over steamed white rice to capture the dish at its peak flavor and creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 784kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 25g
Cholesterol: 185mg
