Authentic Vietnamese Ga Xao Sa Ot Recipe: A Perfect Balance of Spicy and Savory

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 stalks lemongrass, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 red chili peppers, sliced
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 cup of chicken broth
2 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Steamed rice, for serving

Steps and instructions

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add the chopped lemongrass, minced garlic, and sliced chili peppers to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Add the chicken pieces to the pan. Cook until all sides are browned, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the fish sauce, sugar, and chicken broth to the pan. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Lower the heat, cover the pan and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Pour this into the pan and stir well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Stir in the chopped green onions.
Serve the Ga Xao Sa Ot hot with steamed rice.

Tools for making

Cutting board - to prepare the ingredients and cut the chicken thighs.
Knife - for cutting the chicken and chopping the lemongrass, garlic, and chili peppers.
Large pan - for cooking the chicken and sauce.
Spatula or wooden spoon - for stirring and flipping the chicken pieces.
Small bowl - to mix the cornstarch with water.

Recipe variations

Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for added texture and flavor.
Use shrimp or beef instead of chicken for a different protein option.
Experiment with different types of chili peppers for varying levels of spiciness.
Add a tablespoon of oyster sauce for a richer flavor.
Include sliced onions or shallots for added sweetness.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or Thai basil for an aromatic twist.
Serve with noodles instead of rice for a different presentation.
Add a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy kick.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of fish sauce.

Recipe overview

Get ready to spice up your mealtime with this flavorful Vietnamese dish, Ga Xao Sa Ot. This recipe features succulent chicken thighs stir-fried with aromatic lemongrass, spicy chili peppers, and other savory seasonings. The dish is characterized by its spicy and tangy flavors, balanced with the sweetness of sugar and the umami of fish sauce. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that can be whipped up in less than an hour, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Expect a burst of flavors in every bite, and best enjoyed served hot over a bed of steamed rice. This recipe will surely transport your palate straight to the bustling streets of Vietnam. Enjoy cooking!

Common questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs? Yes, you can substitute chicken breast for chicken thighs in this recipe. Keep in mind that chicken breast tends to cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How spicy is this dish? The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. By using the specified amount of chili peppers, the dish will have a moderate level of spiciness. Feel free to add more or fewer chili peppers to suit your taste.
Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Ga Xao Sa Ot by substituting the chicken with tofu or a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and snap peas. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for the vegetables or tofu.
Can I make the dish ahead of time? While Ga Xao Sa Ot is best enjoyed fresh, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it. Keep in mind that the texture of the chicken may change slightly upon reheating.
What can I serve with Ga Xao Sa Ot? This dish is traditionally served with steamed rice, which complements the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it with noodles or a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
Is it possible to adjust the level of sweetness in the sauce? Yes, you can adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less sugar according to your preference. Start with the recommended amount and adjust to taste.

Serving dishes and utensils

Cutting Board - A sturdy surface for cutting and preparing the chicken and other ingredients.
Knife - A sharp knife for cutting the chicken and chopping the lemongrass, garlic, and chili peppers.
Large Pan - A spacious pan for sautéing the chicken and simmering the sauce.
Spatula or Tongs - Utensils for flipping and stirring the chicken while cooking.
Small Bowl - A bowl for mixing the cornstarch with water to make a slurry.
Measuring Spoons - To accurately measure the fish sauce, sugar, and cornstarch.
Serving Plates - Plates or bowls for serving the Ga Xao Sa Ot.
Rice Cooker or Pot - For cooking the steamed rice to serve alongside the dish.

Origin stories

Ga Xao Sa Ot, a wonderfully aromatic and spicy dish, hails from the vibrant and diverse culinary culture of Vietnam. Its name translates to "Lemongrass Chili Chicken," and it encapsulates the bold flavors typical of Vietnamese cuisine, namely the sweetness, hotness, and fragrance of its key ingredients - lemongrass, chili, and chicken. The dish represents the Vietnamese philosophy of balancing elements, not only in life but also in each plate that is served. Lemongrass, for instance, is believed to have cooling effects and is paired with chili, which is considered heaty, to create a harmonious blend. So, when you savor Ga Xao Sa Ot, you're not just enjoying a meal, you're experiencing an ancient philosophy beautifully articulated in the language of food.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.