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S1Ep9-Taiwanese Three-Cup Chicken (San Bei Ji) 台灣三杯雞

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Recipe Information

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Taiwanese Three Cup Chicken

Cultural Context

Taiwanese Three Cup Chicken, or San Bei Ji, is a beloved dish that originated in Taiwan, traditionally made with equal parts soy sauce, rice wine, and sesame oil—hence the name 'three cup.' This dish reflects the island's culinary philosophy of balancing flavors and using simple, local ingredients. It's often served during family gatherings and celebrations, showcasing the warmth of Taiwanese hospitality. Today, it's enjoyed globally, with various adaptations appearing in Chinese restaurants around the world.

TaiwaneseTWmain
45 min
medium
4 servings
Servings4
2 lbs chicken (bone-in chicken legs, thighs cut in 3 inch pieces, and/or wings split at the joint)
2 inch piece of ginger (peeled & sliced)
12-15 crushed garlic cloves
2 cups Thai basil or regular basil leaves (no stems)
2-3 fresh red Thai chilies (stemmed and sliced)
1/4C sesame oil
1/4C soy sauce
1/4C rice wine
1 Tbsp dark soy sauce
1/4C warm water
2 Tbsp brown sugar

soy sauce

🥗Healthier: low-sodium soy sauce

💰Cheaper: tamari

Low-sodium soy sauce reduces sodium intake.

rice wine

🥗Healthier: white wine vinegar

💰Cheaper: apple cider vinegar

White wine vinegar offers acidity without alcohol.

sesame oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil is healthier with a neutral flavor.

fresh basil

🥗Healthier: spinach

💰Cheaper: dried herbs

Spinach adds nutrition and can be more accessible.

1

Heat sesame oil in a wok or pan over medium heat.

2

Add ginger, garlic, and red chilies; sauté until fragrant.

3

Add chicken pieces and stir-fry until browned.

4

Pour in soy sauce, rice wine, dark soy sauce, and warm water; stir to combine.

5

Add brown sugar and mix well, allowing it to dissolve.

6

Cover and simmer until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens.

7

Stir in basil leaves just before serving.

Cooking Techniques

sautéingbraising

Equipment Needed

wokpan

Spice Level:

🌶️🌶️🌶️Contains Alcohol

Allergens

soy

Also Known As

San Bei JiThree Cup Chicken

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