Ga Xao Xa Ot Lemongrass Chili Chicken

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
• 3 stalks lemongrass, tender parts finely minced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 shallots, minced
• 2 Thai chilies, minced
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup water
• Black pepper to taste
• Cilantro sprigs, for garnish
• Steamed rice, for serving

Method

1. Toss the chicken with half the lemongrass, the fish sauce, turmeric and a good grind of pepper and let it sit while you prep the rest.
2. Heat the oil in a wok or skillet over medium heat and fry the remaining lemongrass with the garlic, shallots and chilies until fragrant and golden, about 2 minutes.
3. Turn the heat to high, add the chicken and spread it out to brown for 2 minutes before stirring.
4. Sprinkle in the sugar and stir-fry until the chicken is caramelized, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the water and cook until it reduces to a sticky glaze and the chicken reaches 165°F.
6. Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice.

Notes