Braised chicken with mushrooms is a beloved comfort dish in Northern China, known for its rich, savory flavor and tender texture. Here’s a classic recipe to recreate this homestyle favorite.
Start by preparing the ingredients: 1 whole chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces), 200 dried shiitake mushrooms (soaked until soft, stems removed), 1 piece of ginger (sliced), 3-4 scallions (tied into a knot), and 1 tbsp soy sauce. For extra depth, add a few dried shiitake stems (soaked) and 1 tbsp cooking wine.
Heat 2 tbsp oil in a clay pot or deep pot. Sauté ginger until fragrant, then add the chicken pieces. Stir-fry over medium-high heat until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Pour in the cooking wine and soy sauce, coating the chicken evenly. Add the soaked mushrooms, mushroom stems, and enough water to cover the ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 40-50 minutes, or until the chicken is fork-tender and the sauce thickens slightly.
Finally, garnish with chopped scallions. Serve hot with steamed rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. This dish pairs the earthy aroma of mushrooms with the succulent chicken, creating a warming meal perfect for any season.