Hairy Bikers Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe

Name: Hairy Bikers' Sweet and Sour Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: Serves 4
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp rice wine or dry sherry; 1 tbsp cornflour; 1 red pepper, deseeded and cut into chunks; 1 green pepper, deseeded and cut into chunks; 1 onion, cut into chunks; 1 carrot, thinly sliced; 1 pineapple, peeled, cored, and cut into chunks; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 garlic cloves, crushed; 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger; 100ml chicken stock; 2 tbsp tomato ketchup; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 2 tbsp light soy sauce; 2 tbsp soft brown sugar; 1 tbsp cornflour mixed with 2 tbsp water

The Hairy Bikers' Sweet and Sour Chicken is a classic dish that balances the tangy zest of vinegar and the sweetness of sugar and pineapple, creating a delightful meal that's a hit in many households. This version, attributed to the Hairy Bikers, is known for its healthier take on the traditional recipe, making it a preferred choice for those looking to enjoy the flavors without the guilt.

Hairy Bikers Sweet and Sour Chicken Recipe: A Brief Overview

Sweet and Sour Chicken is a dish that finds its roots in Chinese cuisine, but it has been adapted across the world to suit local tastes and ingredients. The Hairy Bikers' rendition of this beloved dish emphasizes a lighter approach, using less oil and incorporating fresh ingredients to achieve its signature taste.

Ingredients for the Sweet and Sour Chicken

Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless): 2
Pineapple (small, half used, fresh preferred): For both the chicken and the sauce
Sunflower oil: 2 tablespoons
Onion: 1, cut into wedges
Red and green peppers: 1 each, deseeded and chopped
Cornflour: 1 tablespoon for chicken, 1 tablespoon for sauce
Spring onions: 4, trimmed and finely diagonally sliced
Fresh pineapple juice: 300ml
Garlic cloves: 2, crushed
Fresh root ginger: 25g, peeled and finely grated
Dark soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
White wine vinegar: 2 tablespoons
Soft light brown sugar: 2 tablespoons
Tomato ketchup: 3 tablespoons
Dried chilli flakes: a pinch
Freshly ground black pepper

Preparation Instructions

The preparation involves marinating the chicken in a mixture that includes pineapple juice, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, ketchup, and a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat. The chicken is then cooked with onions, peppers, and additional pineapple to create a rich and flavorful dish. The cornflour helps thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings to the chicken and vegetables beautifully. For a full step-by-step guide, please refer to the Hairy Bikers' official website or recipes.

Storage and Reheating

The dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, ensure it's heated thoroughly until piping hot. If the sauce thickens too much upon refrigeration, a little water can be added during reheating to adjust the consistency.

Nutritional Information

This lighter version of Sweet and Sour Chicken is lower in calories and fat compared to traditional methods, thanks to the use of less oil and the inclusion of fresh vegetables and fruit. For detailed nutritional values, it's recommended to calculate based on the specific brands of ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pineapple? Fresh pineapple is preferred for both the chicken and the sauce for the best taste, but canned pineapple can be used in a pinch.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free? Yes, by using a gluten-free soy sauce and ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

This dish is a testament to the Hairy Bikers' ability to transform traditional recipes into healthier versions without compromising on flavor. It's a perfect example of how mindful cooking techniques and ingredient choices can result in a dish that's both delicious and nutritious. Enjoy this delightful Sweet and Sour Chicken with a side of rice for a complete meal.

Original recipe attributed to the Hairy Bikers.

For a comprehensive guide on how to prepare this recipe, visit the Hairy Bikers' official website or other reputable cooking sources.