Mary Berry Hoisin Chicken

Discover the delight of Mary Berry's Hoisin Chicken, a mouth-watering dish that combines the rich, sweet-and-savory flavors of hoisin sauce with succulent chicken. This recipe, a gem from Mary Berry's culinary collection, offers a twist on the traditional crispy duck served in Chinese restaurants by using tender, marinated chicken instead.

Mary Berry's Hoisin Chicken: A Culinary Delight

Cultural or Historical Context Mary Berry's Hoisin Chicken draws inspiration from classic Chinese cuisine, reimagined with the simplicity and elegance that Mary Berry is known for. The dish features a whole chicken marinated in a blend of hoisin sauce, Chinese five-spice, and other aromatic ingredients, roasted to perfection and served with warm Chinese rice pancakes. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a fun, interactive meal, where everyone can make their own pancake rolls filled with chicken and fresh vegetables.

Ingredients List for the Hoisin Chicken

• Whole chicken (1.5kg or approximately 3lb 5oz)
• Chinese rice pancakes (20-30 pieces)
• Cucumber (½ large, deseeded and cut into matchsticks)
• Spring onions (A large bunch, sliced into matchsticks)
• Carrots (2 large, peeled and cut into matchsticks)

For the marinade:

• Hoisin sauce (2 tablespoons)
• Tomato purée (2 teaspoons)
• Chinese five-spice powder (2 tablespoons)
• Soy sauce (3 tablespoons)
• Runny honey (2 tablespoons)
• Rice or white wine vinegar (2 teaspoons)
• Garlic (1 large clove, finely grated)

Preparation Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine the marinade ingredients in a large dish. Coat the chicken thoroughly and let it marinate in the fridge for 1 to 4 hours.
2. Roast: Preheat your oven and line a roasting tin. Cook the chicken, covered with foil after the first 30 minutes, until it's dark brown but not burnt.
3. Serve: Warm the pancakes as per the packet instructions. Carve the chicken and serve with the pancakes, vegetables, and extra hoisin sauce for a delightful roll-up.

Storage and Reheating

This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the marinated chicken raw. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator before following the roasting instructions.

Nutritional Information

While specific values depend on the ingredients used, this dish is rich in protein from the chicken and provides a variety of vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables. The hoisin sauce adds a flavorful, albeit sugary, component.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken? A: Yes, you can adapt the recipe to use chicken breasts. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Q: Are there vegetarian alternatives to chicken in this recipe? A: For a vegetarian version, consider using tofu or tempeh as a substitute for the chicken, marinating it in the same way.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, the chicken can be marinated up to a day in advance for enhanced flavor. The marinated chicken can also be frozen for later use.

The original recipe by Mary Berry showcases her ability to transform traditional dishes into modern classics, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking to bring a touch of gourmet into their home cooking. For more detailed steps and additional tips from Mary Berry herself, explore her culinary works and recipe books​​​​​​.