Frango Xadrez (Kung Pao Chicken)
Chicken with vegetables and peanuts in a savory sauce.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Frango Xadrez is a Brazilian adaptation of the Chinese dish Kung Pao Chicken. Chinese immigration to Brazil, particularly in the 20th century, brought various culinary influences, and this dish is a prime example of fusion cuisine.
Frango Xadrez is a popular dish in Brazil, commonly found in Chinese restaurants and adapted in home kitchens. It represents the blending of cultures and the Brazilian culinary landscape's openness to international flavors.
Fusion Cuisine
Frango Xadrez highlights Brazil's embrace of diverse culinary influences, demonstrating how foreign dishes are adapted and integrated into the local cuisine.
Restaurant Staple
The dish is a common offering in Brazilian Chinese restaurants, making it accessible and well-known among the population.
Home Cooking Adaptation
Brazilian home cooks often adapt the recipe, adjusting the ingredients and spice levels to suit their preferences, making it a versatile and beloved dish.
Frango Xadrez offers a balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors. The dish showcases a mix of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sometimes a touch of chili for heat, complemented by the crunch of peanuts and the freshness of vegetables.
The main flavors come from the soy sauce-based marinade and sauce, which provides umami and saltiness. Ginger and garlic contribute aromatic warmth, while a small amount of chili sauce or dried chilies adds a subtle spiciness. Brown sugar or honey can be added for sweetness to balance the flavors. The peanuts offer a nutty flavor and satisfying texture, and the vegetables add freshness and vibrancy.
Marinating the Chicken
Marinating the chicken in soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of cornstarch helps tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
Stir-Fry Technique
Use a wok or large pan over high heat to stir-fry the ingredients quickly, ensuring the chicken cooks through and the vegetables remain crisp.
Peanut Addition
Add the peanuts towards the end of the cooking process to maintain their crunch and prevent them from burning.
Adjusting Sweetness and Spice
Adjust the amount of sugar or chili sauce to suit your personal preferences for sweetness and spice level.
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