Jasmine rice bowl with tamarind-coconut glazed chicken, wok-seared green beans, and fresh herb cucumber salad

Instructions

1. 1

   1. Place the jasmine rice in a sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs almost clear. Add it to a saucepan with 420 ml (1.75 cups) water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, cover, reduce to the lowest heat, and cook for 12 minutes. Remove from the heat and let rest, covered, for 10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

2. 2

   2. While the rice cooks, whisk together the tamarind concentrate, coconut milk, 30 ml (2 tbsp) soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, half of the minced garlic, lime zest, 15 ml (1 tbsp) lime juice, and a pinch of black pepper in a bowl. Add the chicken and toss well to coat.

3. 3

   3. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 15 ml (1 tbsp) vegetable oil and cook the chicken with its marinade for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring several times, until browned, fully cooked, and coated in a thick glossy sauce. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F.

4. 4

   4. In another bowl, combine the cucumber with rice vinegar, sesame oil, 15 ml (1 tbsp) soy sauce, 15 ml (1 tbsp) lime juice, mint, cilantro, half of the scallion, a pinch of salt, and the red pepper flakes if using. Set aside to lightly marinate.

5. 5

   5. Wipe out the skillet or use another pan. Heat the remaining 15 ml (1 tbsp) vegetable oil over high heat and stir-fry the green beans with the remaining garlic for 4 to 5 minutes, until tender-crisp with some blistered browned spots. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

6. 6

   6. Divide the jasmine rice among four bowls. Top with the glazed chicken, wok-seared green beans, and cucumber salad with its dressing.

7. 7

   7. Finish each bowl with toasted sesame seeds and the remaining scallion. Serve immediately.

8. 8

   8. If you want to keep the dish warm before serving, you may hold it in an oven at 95°C / 200°F for up to 10 minutes, loosely covering the rice and chicken so they do not dry out.