Cooking Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style: A Step-by-Step Guide

Chicken inasal, a popular Filipino dish that originated in the city of Bacolod, has been a staple in many Filipino households for decades. The dish is known for its smoky, grilled flavor and its ability to bring people together. In this article, we will explore the history of chicken inasal, its cultural significance, and most importantly, provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook chicken inasal Bacolod style.

A Brief History of Chicken Inasal

Chicken inasal, which translates to “grilled chicken” in English, has its roots in the city of Bacolod, which is located in the province of Negros Occidental in the Philippines. The dish is believed to have originated in the 1970s, when a group of vendors in Bacolod’s public market began selling grilled chicken skewers as a snack to locals.

Over time, the dish gained popularity, and its unique flavor profile, which is characterized by a combination of spices, vinegar, and garlic, became a staple in many Filipino households. Today, chicken inasal is enjoyed not only in the Philippines but also around the world, with many restaurants and food establishments offering their own version of the dish.

The Cultural Significance of Chicken Inasal

Chicken inasal is more than just a dish; it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings people together. In the Philippines, chicken inasal is often served during special occasions such as fiestas, parties, and family gatherings. The dish is also a staple in many Filipino households, where it’s often served as a main course or as a snack.

The cultural significance of chicken inasal can be attributed to its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and community. For many Filipinos, the smell of grilled chicken and the sound of sizzling meat on the grill are reminiscent of happy memories and special occasions.

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

Before we dive into the step-by-step guide on how to cook chicken inasal Bacolod style, let’s take a look at the ingredients and equipment needed.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken legs or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 1/4 cup garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup salt
• 1/4 cup black pepper
• 2 tbsp lemongrass, bruised
• 2 tbsp chili peppers, sliced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp annatto seeds (optional)
• 2 tbsp calamansi juice (optional)

Equipment:

• Grill or grill pan
• Large bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Tongs or skewers

Preparing the Marinade

The marinade is a crucial component of chicken inasal, as it provides the dish with its unique flavor profile. To prepare the marinade, combine the vinegar, garlic, ginger, salt, black pepper, lemongrass, and chili peppers in a large bowl. Whisk until the ingredients are well combined.

Adding the Annatto Seeds and Calamansi Juice (Optional)

If you want to add a bit of color and flavor to your chicken inasal, you can add annatto seeds and calamansi juice to the marinade. Annatto seeds provide a yellowish-orange color to the dish, while calamansi juice adds a bit of acidity and flavor.

Marinating the Chicken

Once the marinade is prepared, it’s time to marinate the chicken. Place the chicken pieces in the marinade and mix until the chicken is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Grilling the Chicken

After the chicken has marinated, it’s time to grill it. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through.

Brushing the Chicken with Vegetable Oil

To add a bit of moisture and flavor to the chicken, brush it with vegetable oil while it’s grilling. This will also help to prevent the chicken from drying out.

Serving the Chicken Inasal

Once the chicken is cooked, it’s time to serve it. Serve the chicken inasal with steamed rice and a side of sinangag (fried rice) or grilled vegetables.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to help you improve your chicken inasal game:

• Use a combination of chicken legs and thighs for a more flavorful dish.
• Add a bit of sugar to the marinade to balance out the acidity of the vinegar.
• Use a grill pan instead of a grill for a more even heat distribution.
• Serve the chicken inasal with a side of liver sauce or chili sauce for added flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking chicken inasal:

• Overmarinating the chicken, which can result in a tough and dry texture.
• Underseasoning the marinade, which can result in a bland flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken, which can result in a dry and tough texture.

Conclusion

Cooking chicken inasal Bacolod style is a bit of an art, but with the right ingredients and equipment, you can create a dish that’s both delicious and authentic. Remember to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, grill it to perfection, and serve it with steamed rice and a side of sinangag or grilled vegetables. With these tips and variations, you’ll be well on your way to creating a chicken inasal dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

By following this recipe and using the right ingredients and equipment, you’ll be able to create a delicious and authentic chicken inasal dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

What is Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style?

Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style is a popular Filipino dish that originated in Bacolod, a city in the Philippines known for its delicious and flavorful grilled chicken. This dish is a staple in many Filipino restaurants and households, and its unique flavor profile has made it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The term “inasal” is a Hiligaynon word that means “grilled” or “roasted,” which refers to the cooking method used to prepare this dish.

The Bacolod-style Chicken Inasal is distinct from other versions of grilled chicken found in the Philippines, as it uses a special marinade that gives the chicken its signature flavor. The marinade typically includes a combination of ingredients such as vinegar, garlic, ginger, and spices, which are mixed together to create a paste that is applied to the chicken before grilling. This marinade is what sets Bacolod-style Chicken Inasal apart from other grilled chicken dishes.

What are the ingredients needed to cook Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style?

To cook Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style, you will need a few ingredients, including chicken legs or thighs, vinegar, garlic, ginger, salt, black pepper, and spices such as paprika and cayenne pepper. You will also need some oil or butter for brushing the chicken while it’s grilling. Additionally, you can add some lemongrass and chili peppers to the marinade for extra flavor. It’s also important to note that the type of vinegar used is crucial, as it should be a mixture of apple cider vinegar and cane vinegar.

You can adjust the amount of ingredients according to your taste preferences and the number of people you are serving. Some recipes may also include additional ingredients such as onions, tomatoes, or bell peppers, but these are optional. The key to making a delicious Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style is to use high-quality ingredients and to follow the traditional marinade recipe.

How do I prepare the marinade for Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style?

To prepare the marinade for Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style, you will need to combine the ingredients such as vinegar, garlic, ginger, salt, black pepper, and spices in a blender or food processor. Blend the ingredients until they form a smooth paste, making sure to scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure everything is well mixed. You can also add some lemongrass and chili peppers to the marinade for extra flavor.

Once the marinade is ready, you can apply it to the chicken by rubbing it all over the meat, making sure to coat it evenly. You can also put the chicken in a large ziplock bag or a covered container and pour the marinade over it, making sure that the chicken is fully submerged in the marinade. The chicken should be marinated for at least 30 minutes to an hour, but it’s best to marinate it overnight for maximum flavor.

How do I grill the chicken for Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style?

To grill the chicken for Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style, you will need to preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Brush the grill with some oil or butter to prevent the chicken from sticking. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and slightly charred.

While the chicken is grilling, you can brush it with some oil or butter to keep it moist and add extra flavor. You can also sprinkle some salt and pepper on the chicken while it’s grilling for added flavor. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can serve the chicken with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a side salad.

What are some tips for making delicious Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style?

One of the most important tips for making delicious Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style is to use high-quality ingredients, particularly the vinegar and spices. The type of vinegar used is crucial, as it should be a mixture of apple cider vinegar and cane vinegar. You should also use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor.

Another tip is to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to an hour, but it’s best to marinate it overnight for maximum flavor. You should also make sure to grill the chicken over medium-high heat to get a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Additionally, you can add some lemongrass and chili peppers to the marinade for extra flavor.

Can I cook Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style in an oven instead of grilling?

Yes, you can cook Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style in an oven instead of grilling. To do this, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and slightly browned.

While the chicken is baking, you can brush it with some oil or butter to keep it moist and add extra flavor. You can also sprinkle some salt and pepper on the chicken while it’s baking for added flavor. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Keep in mind that cooking the chicken in an oven will not give it the same smoky flavor as grilling, but it will still be delicious.

How do I serve Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style?

Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style is typically served with steamed rice, which helps to soak up the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it with grilled vegetables, such as tomatoes and onions, or a side salad. Some people also like to serve it with a dipping sauce made from a mixture of vinegar, chili peppers, and garlic.

You can also serve Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style with some Filipino side dishes, such as sinangag (fried rice) or steamed vegetables. Additionally, you can serve it with some fresh fruits, such as mangoes or bananas, for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken. Whatever you choose to serve it with, Chicken Inasal Bacolod Style is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.