Turmeric Black Pepper Chicken with Broccoli Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 5

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 pound broccoli, cut into small florets
• 1 (5 ounce) can water chestnuts, drained
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

Directions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the water, honey, and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside.
2. In another bowl, combine the flour, turmeric, and salt. Add the chicken pieces to this mixture, tossing until the chicken is evenly coated.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure it cooks evenly.
4. Add the broccoli florets and water chestnuts to the wok. Stir-fry for an additional 3 minutes, ensuring the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
5. Pour the honey and pepper mixture into the wok and stir well to coat the chicken and vegetables with the sauce. Continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
6. Remove the wok from heat and stir in the rice vinegar. This adds a nice tangy balance to the dish.
7. Serve the stir-fry over rice or in lettuce wraps for a lighter option.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 257
• Total Fat: 10g (13% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 2g (12% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 111mg (37% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 607mg (26% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 20g (7% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (10% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 24g (48% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 31mg (34% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 35mg (3% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (11% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 573mg (12% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your individual calorie needs.

History and Origin

Turmeric Black Pepper Chicken with Broccoli is a modern American recipe inspired by the flavors of traditional Asian stir-fries. Turmeric, a root widely used in Southeast Asia, has a long history in medicinal and culinary traditions. Black pepper, also originating from Asia, is one of the oldest and most commonly used spices worldwide. This dish combines the medicinal properties of turmeric with the sharpness of black pepper, creating a flavorful and healthy meal. While not tied to any one specific region, the use of turmeric in cooking can be traced to India, where it plays an essential role in daily meals.

Regional Variations

Though this recipe is an American adaptation, the combination of turmeric and black pepper is widely used in Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine. In India, turmeric is often paired with a variety of spices to create rich, complex curry dishes. The addition of black pepper, which enhances the absorption of turmeric's curcumin, makes the American variation both nutritious and vibrant. The dish may also incorporate regional vegetables like bell peppers or snow peas depending on local preferences, though broccoli remains a popular choice for its crisp texture and mild flavor.

Distinctions from Similar Dishes

This dish stands out from other stir-fry recipes due to its use of turmeric, which gives it a unique yellow color and earthy flavor. Unlike typical stir-fries that might rely on soy sauce or hoisin for flavor, this recipe uses honey, vinegar, and black pepper for a balance of sweetness, acidity, and spice. Furthermore, the absence of strong, complex sauces makes the taste of the chicken and vegetables more pronounced, allowing the turmeric to shine as the primary flavor component. The inclusion of water chestnuts also adds an interesting texture, distinguishing this dish from others.

Where to Serve

This dish is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, and it can be served over rice or in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Due to its vibrant yellow color and aromatic spices, it's also a great choice for a casual dinner party or family meal. Restaurants offering Asian fusion or healthy dining options might include variations of turmeric chicken on their menu, often with additional ingredients like kale or mushrooms. The dish's simplicity makes it versatile for home cooks and restaurants alike.

Interesting Facts

Turmeric has been celebrated for its health benefits for centuries. It contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that curcumin, when paired with black pepper, is more readily absorbed by the body, making this dish not only flavorful but also beneficial for health. Black pepper is often called the "King of Spices" because of its historical value in trade, and it was so precious during the 16th century that it was used as currency. Additionally, the combination of turmeric and black pepper is a staple in Ayurvedic medicine, believed to improve digestion and detoxify the body.

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