Chicken Pastil Recipe
Chicken Pastil is a traditional Filipino dish that originated from the Maguindanao province in Mindanao. It is a flavorful combination of chicken, rice, and spices that is wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection. This delicious recipe is often served during special occasions and festive gatherings, but it can also be enjoyed as a comforting meal any time of the year.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs of chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 2 cups of glutinous rice
- 1 cup of coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon of annatto powder
- 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 onion, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Banana leaves for wrapping
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken thighs in annatto powder, turmeric powder, minced garlic, minced onion, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, wash the glutinous rice and let it soak in water for 30 minutes. Drain the water and set aside.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the marinated chicken. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
- Add the soaked glutinous rice to the skillet and stir well to combine with the coconut milk.
- Place the cooked chicken on top of the rice mixture and cover the skillet with a lid. Cook for about 20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and the flavors have melded together.
- While the rice is cooking, prepare the banana leaves by cutting them into rectangles and blanching them in boiling water for a few seconds to soften.
- Once the rice is cooked, remove the chicken and shred it into small pieces. Mix the shredded chicken with the rice.
- Take a piece of banana leaf and scoop a generous amount of the chicken and rice mixture onto the center. Fold the sides of the banana leaf over the mixture to form a neat package. Repeat with the remaining mixture and banana leaves.
- Steam the wrapped chicken pastil for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the banana leaves to impart a subtle aroma.
- Remove from the steamer and let it cool slightly before unwrapping. Serve warm and enjoy!
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Serves 4-6
Chicken Pastil is a traditional Filipino dish consisting of marinated chicken and glutinous rice wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
Nutritional information: Calories per serving – 400, Fat – 10g, Carbohydrates – 60g, Protein – 20g
Chicken Pastil is a true delight for the senses. The aroma of the banana leaves as they steam and the rich flavors of the marinated chicken and coconut-infused rice make this dish a standout. Every bite is a burst of savory goodness that will transport you straight to the vibrant and diverse culinary landscape of the Philippines.
The preparation of Chicken Pastil may take a bit of time, but it is certainly worth the effort. The marinating process allows the chicken to absorb all the aromatic spices, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. The glutinous rice, cooked in coconut milk, becomes incredibly fragrant and silky, making it the perfect companion for the chicken.
Wrapping the chicken and rice mixture in banana leaves not only adds a rustic charm but also imparts a subtle earthy flavor to the dish. The steaming process further enhances the flavors and textures, ensuring that every bite is moist, aromatic, and delectable.
Chicken Pastil is not only a delicious dish but also a visual feast. Unwrapping the banana leaves reveals a vibrant yellow rice adorned with tender shreds of chicken. The presentation alone is enough to make your mouth water.
Whether you’re preparing Chicken Pastil for a special occasion or simply to indulge in the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones to the table, and embark on a culinary journey to the heart of the Philippines with this Chicken Pastil recipe.