Cumin Chicken (Zi Ran Ji Kuai)

Method

1. 01 non-veg pot

   Cut the boneless chicken thighs into 1.2-inch (3cm) cubes. Do not wash the chicken after cutting.

   veg pot

   Press the water out of the Tofu. Cut it into 1.2-inch 3cm cubes.

2. 02 non-veg pot

   In a bowl, combine the chicken with the Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, 13-spice powder, BBQ seasoning, and cornstarch. Mix well and let sit for 20 minutes.

   veg pot

   In a bowl, combine the Tofu with the Shaoxing wine, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, 13-spice powder, BBQ seasoning, and cornstarch. Mix well and let sit for 20 minutes.

3. 03 non-veg pot

   Heat a wok or large skillet. Add 3 tablespoons of neutral oil. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Stir-fry over medium-high heat until the chicken is cooked through and firm.

   veg pot

   Heat a wok or large skillet. Add 3 tablespoons of neutral oil. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Stir-fry over medium-high heat until the tofu is cooked through and firm.

4. 04 non-veg pot

   Once cooked, pour out the excess oil and liquid from the pan (crucial step). Transfer the chicken to a plate and wipe the wok clean.

   veg pot

   Once cooked, pour out the excess oil and liquid from the pan crucial step. Transfer the tofu to a plate and wipe the wok clean.

5. 05

   Return the clean wok to the stove over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of fresh oil. When the oil is hot, add the minced garlic. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

6. 06 non-veg pot

   Add the cooked chicken back into the wok with the garlic. Toss quickly to combine.

   veg pot

   Add the cooked tofu back into the wok with the garlic. Toss quickly to combine.

7. 07

   Sprinkle the cumin powder, cumin seeds, and white sesame seeds (and extra chili powder if you like it spicy) over the chicken. Crank the heat to high. Stir-fry vigorously for 30–60 seconds until the spices are toasted and clinging to the meat. (veg: Sprinkle the cumin powder, cumin seeds, and white sesame seeds and extra chili powder if you like it spicy over the tofu. Crank the heat to high. Stir-fry vigorously for 30–60 seconds until the spices are toasted and clinging to the meat.)

8. 08

   Remove from heat immediately and transfer to a serving plate.