Bicol Express is a popular Filipino dish that originated in the Bicol region. It is a spicy stew made with chili peppers, coconut milk, and various protein sources such as pork, shrimp, or chicken. In this article, we will focus on cooking Bicol Express chicken, a variation of the dish that uses chicken as the main protein source.
Understanding the Origins of Bicol Express
Bicol Express is a dish that originated in the Bicol region of the Philippines. The region is known for its spicy cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the use of chili peppers. The dish is believed to have been created by a Filipino chef named Cely Kalaw, who experimented with different ingredients to create a spicy stew that would appeal to the local palate.
The Evolution of Bicol Express
Over time, Bicol Express has evolved to include various protein sources such as pork, shrimp, and chicken. The dish has also been adapted to suit different tastes and preferences. Some variations of Bicol Express use less chili peppers, while others add additional ingredients such as vegetables or seafood.
Ingredients Needed for Bicol Express Chicken
To cook Bicol Express chicken, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or legs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium ginger, grated
- 2 cups coconut milk
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup fish sauce (patis)
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2-3 Thai chili peppers or siling labuyo, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Preparing the Ingredients
Before cooking the Bicol Express chicken, make sure to prepare the ingredients. Chop the onions, garlic, and ginger. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. Grate the ginger and chop the chili peppers.
Cooking the Bicol Express Chicken
To cook the Bicol Express chicken, follow these steps:
Browning the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Sauteing the Onions, Garlic, and Ginger
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the onions are translucent.
Adding the Chili Peppers and Coconut Milk
Add the chopped chili peppers to the pan and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the coconut milk and water. Stir well to combine.
Adding the Fish Sauce, Vinegar, and Seasonings
Add the fish sauce, vinegar, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Stir well to combine.
Returning the Chicken to the Pan
Return the browned chicken to the pan and stir well to combine with the sauce.
Simmering the Bicol Express Chicken
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Serving the Bicol Express Chicken
Serve the Bicol Express chicken hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. You can serve the dish with steamed rice or noodles.
Tips for Cooking Bicol Express Chicken
Here are some tips for cooking Bicol Express chicken:
- Use fresh and high-quality ingredients to ensure the best flavor.
- Adjust the level of spiciness to your liking by adding more or fewer chili peppers.
- Use coconut milk to add creaminess to the dish.
- Simmer the dish for at least 20-25 minutes to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Variations of Bicol Express Chicken
There are several variations of Bicol Express chicken that you can try. Here are a few ideas:
Bicol Express Chicken with Vegetables
Add sliced vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes to the pan with the onions, garlic, and ginger.
Bicol Express Chicken with Seafood
Add shrimp, squid, or fish to the pan with the chicken for a seafood version of the dish.
Bicol Express Chicken with a Twist
Add a twist to the dish by using different types of protein such as pork or beef. You can also add other ingredients such as lemongrass or galangal to give the dish a unique flavor.
Conclusion
Cooking Bicol Express chicken is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a spicy Filipino dish. With the right ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful and aromatic dish that is sure to please. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just looking to try something new, Bicol Express chicken is a great option.
What is Bicol Express Chicken?
Bicol Express Chicken is a popular Filipino dish that originated in the Bicol region. It is a spicy stew made with marinated chicken cooked in coconut milk, chili peppers, garlic, and other spices. The dish is known for its bold flavors and spicy kick, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The name “Bicol Express” refers to the train that travels from Manila to the Bicol region, which is known for its spicy cuisine. The dish is often served with steamed rice, which helps to balance out the spiciness. Bicol Express Chicken is a must-try for anyone who loves spicy food and is looking to try something new and exciting.
What are the ingredients needed to cook Bicol Express Chicken?
To cook Bicol Express Chicken, you will need a few ingredients, including chicken pieces, coconut milk, chili peppers, garlic, ginger, onions, and spices. You will also need some oil or butter for sautéing the ingredients. Additionally, you can add some vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes to add flavor and texture to the dish.
You can adjust the level of spiciness to your liking by using more or fewer chili peppers. You can also add other ingredients like shrimp paste or fish sauce to give the dish more depth of flavor. Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before starting to cook, as this will make the cooking process easier and faster.
How do I marinate the chicken for Bicol Express Chicken?
To marinate the chicken for Bicol Express Chicken, you will need to mix together some ingredients like vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices. You can also add some chili peppers to the marinade to give the chicken an extra kick of heat. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and pour the marinade over them, making sure that they are fully coated.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. You can also marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator for more intense flavors. Make sure to refrigerate the chicken at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below to prevent foodborne illness.
How do I cook Bicol Express Chicken?
To cook Bicol Express Chicken, heat some oil or butter in a pan over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and sauté it until it is browned on all sides. Then, add the onions, garlic, and ginger and sauté until they are softened. Add the chili peppers and cook for another minute.
Next, pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot with steamed rice.
Can I adjust the level of spiciness in Bicol Express Chicken?
Yes, you can adjust the level of spiciness in Bicol Express Chicken to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, you can use fewer chili peppers or omit the seeds and membranes, which contain most of the heat. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add more chili peppers or use hotter peppers like habaneros or ghost peppers.
You can also add other ingredients like cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the dish an extra kick of heat. Alternatively, you can serve the dish with a side of rice or bread to help cool down the palate.
Can I serve Bicol Express Chicken with other dishes?
Yes, you can serve Bicol Express Chicken with other dishes to make a complete meal. Some popular options include steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles. You can also serve it with some steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add some contrast to the rich and spicy flavors of the dish.
Additionally, you can serve Bicol Express Chicken with some Filipino side dishes like lumpia (spring rolls) or pancit (stir-fried noodles). You can also serve it with some fresh fruits like mangoes or pineapples to provide a refreshing contrast to the spicy flavors.
Can I store leftover Bicol Express Chicken?
Yes, you can store leftover Bicol Express Chicken in the refrigerator or freezer. Let the dish cool down to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing it. You can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
When reheating the dish, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illness. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding some water or coconut milk if the sauce has thickened too much.