Chinese Chili Chicken
Makan Tengah Hari • Malaysia
How to Make Chinese Chili Chicken (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Chinese Chili Chicken is a classic Malaysian Chinese dish, beloved for its bold flavors and vibrant colors. Rooted in the rich multicultural heritage of Malaysia, this vegetarian version pays homage to the Chinese community’s mastery of stir-fry techniques and the use of local ingredients. In Malaysia, Chinese Chili Chicken is often served during lunch in kopitiams and family gatherings, reflecting the country’s harmonious blend of cultures. This recipe features succulent vegetarian chicken pieces tossed with a medley of fresh Malaysian vegetables, aromatic herbs like daun pandan and serai (lemongrass), and a spicy chili sauce made from cili padi, garlic, and ginger. The dish is designed to be lighter and healthier, focusing on plant-based protein and minimizing oil. Its fragrant, spicy, and savory profile makes it a satisfying and guilt-free choice for those who love bold Malaysian flavors while tracking their calories.
Bahan-bahan(untuk 1 plate (about 250g per serving))
- 200g Vegetarian chicken pieces (made from soy or wheat protein)
- 4 Cili padi (bird’s eye chili) (finely sliced)
- 1/2 Red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 Daun pandan (pandan leaf) (tied into a knot) - pilihan
- 1 stalk Serai (lemongrass) (bruised)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 inch Ginger (julienned)
- 2 stalks Spring onion (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 2 tbsp Light soy sauce (for seasoning)
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
- 1 tbsp Cooking oil (can use minyak jagung for healthier option)
Arahan
- 1
Prepare all vegetables and aromatics: slice cili padi, dice bell pepper, mince garlic, julienne ginger, and cut spring onions. Tie pandan leaf into a knot and bruise the lemongrass.
5 minutes
Keep vegetables uniform for even cooking.
- 2
Heat cooking oil in a wok over medium heat. Add garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and pandan leaf. Sauté until fragrant.
3 minutes
Do not burn garlic; stir constantly for aroma.
- 3
Add vegetarian chicken pieces and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until lightly brown.
3 minutes
Let the veggie chicken develop a light crust for better texture.
- 4
Add cili padi, red bell pepper, and spring onion. Continue stir-frying for another 3 minutes.
3 minutes
Add bell pepper last for a crunchy bite.
Kenapa hidangan ini sihat
Choosing vegetarian chicken and fresh local vegetables reduces saturated fat and cholesterol, making this dish ideal for calorie tracking. The recipe avoids deep-frying, focusing on stir-frying with minimal oil. With high fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, this Chinese Chili Chicken supports weight loss, blood sugar control, and overall wellness. It’s a smart lunch option for health-conscious Malaysians.
This vegetarian Chinese Chili Chicken is rich in plant-based protein from soy or wheat, making it a great meat substitute. It contains antioxidants from bell pepper and cili padi, vitamins A and C, and fiber for digestive health. The use of lemongrass and pandan adds phytonutrients, while minimal oil keeps the fat content low. Ginger and garlic offer anti-inflammatory benefits and support immune function.
Petua
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh cili padi for maximum heat and aroma.
- 💡Tip 2: Add a splash of lime juice for extra zest before serving.
- 💡Tip 3: Substitute vegetarian chicken with tempeh or tofu for a vegan version.
Penyimpanan & hidangan
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a wok or microwave. Avoid freezing as vegetarian chicken may lose texture.
Paling sesuai dihidang: Lunch
Fakta Nutrisi
| Nutrien | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Tenaga | 310.0 kcal |
