Hainan Chicken Rice

Ingredients

FOR THE CHICKEN

• 1 (3-3 1/2 lb)  roasting chickens
• 2 ounces fresh gingerroot, crushed
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 scallion, tie in a know
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or peanut oil
• chili sauce or soy sauce, for dipping

FOR THE RICE

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or peanut oil
• 5 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 5 shallots, finely chopped
• 1 1/2 cups long grain rice
• 3 3/4 cups chicken stock
• 1 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. 1

   PREPARE THE CHICKEN:.

2. 2

   Wash the chicken and dry thoroughly. Stuff the body cavity with the ginger, garlic, scallion, and salt.

3. 3

   Fill a large pan with water and bring to a boil. Put the chicken, breast side down, into the pan then return to water to a boil Reduce heat and simmer, covered, turning the chicken over once, for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and the juices run clear when a skewer is inserted into the thickest part of the meat.

4. 4

   Remove the chicken and rinse under running cold water for 2 minutes to prevent any additional cooking. Drain, then rub the oil into the skin. Set aside.

5. 5

   PREPARE THE RICE:.

6. 6

   To prepare the rice, heat the oil in a preheated wok or deep pan over high heat. Add the garlic and shallots and stir-fry until fragrant. Add the rice and vigorously stir-fry for 3 minutes. Add the stock and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the rice steam for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the rice grains are tender.

7. 7

   To serve, chop the chicken horizontally, through the bone and skin into chunky wedges. Serve with the rice and dipping sauce.