Authentic Vietnamese Tamarind Chicken Rice (Com Ga Sot Me) Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken (about 3 lbs)
  • 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
  • 2 cups of jasmine rice
  • 1.5 cups of chicken stock
  • 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
  • 3 tablespoons of tamarind paste
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of salt
  • 1 tablespoon of black pepper
  • 3 spring onions, chopped
  • 1 handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 handful of fresh mint leaves, chopped
  • 2 limes, cut into wedges
  • 1 red chili, sliced (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. Clean the chicken and pat it dry. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until it's golden brown on all sides. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
  3. In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add the onion, garlic, and carrots. Saute until the onions become translucent.
  4. Add the jasmine rice to the pot and stir to coat the rice with oil. Add the turmeric powder and stir well.
  5. Return the chicken to the pot, add the chicken stock, fish sauce, tamarind paste, sugar, and 1/2 tablespoon of salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes.
  6. Check the chicken and stir the rice occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pot. If the rice is too dry, add more chicken stock or water.
  7. After 45 minutes, check if the chicken is fully cooked. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If the chicken is done, remove it from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes.
  8. While the chicken is resting, check the rice. If it's fully cooked, turn off the heat. If not, continue cooking until it's done.
  9. Chop the chicken into pieces and serve it on a platter with the rice. Garnish with spring onions, cilantro, mint leaves, and lime wedges. Serve the sliced chili on the side for those who prefer their dish spicy.

Tools for making

  • Cutting board - Used for chopping and preparing ingredients.
  • Chef's knife - Essential for cutting and carving the chicken.
  • Large pot - Used for cooking the rice and chicken.
  • Wooden spoon - Ideal for stirring the rice and chicken mixture.
  • Measuring cups and spoons - Required for accurately measuring the ingredients.
  • Tongs - Useful for handling the chicken during cooking and serving.
  • Ladle - Used for scooping and serving the rice and chicken.
  • Platter - Used for presenting and serving the dish.
  • Chopping knife - Needed for chopping the spring onions, cilantro, mint leaves, and chili.
  • Citrus juicer - Used for juicing the limes.
  • Serving bowls - Optional for serving additional condiments or sauces.

Recipe variations

  • Use skinless chicken breasts or thighs instead of a whole chicken.
  • Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian/vegan version.
  • Add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to the dish.
  • Include pineapple chunks for a sweet and tangy twist.
  • Experiment with different spices such as ginger, lemongrass, or star anise.
  • Replace jasmine rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.
  • Add cashews or peanuts for extra crunch.
  • For a spicier version, increase the amount of chili or add chili flakes.
  • Add coconut milk for a creamy and rich flavor.
  • Marinate the chicken in a soy sauce and garlic mixture before cooking for added depth of flavor.

Recipe overview

Com Ga Sot Me, or Vietnamese Tamarind Chicken with Rice, is a delightful combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. This comforting dish features a whole chicken that's been simmered in a fragrant mixture of tamarind paste, fish sauce, and turmeric. The chicken is then served with jasmine rice that's been cooked in the same flavorful broth, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness. This recipe takes about an hour to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a weekend dinner. The steps are relatively straightforward, with the main task being the proper cooking of the chicken and rice. The finished dish is garnished with fresh herbs and served with lime wedges, allowing diners to add a burst of freshness and acidity to their meal. The combination of sweet tamarind, aromatic spices, tender chicken, and fluffy rice make Com Ga Sot Me a satisfying and flavorful meal that's sure to impress. Whether you're familiar with Vietnamese cuisine or just looking to try something new, this recipe is a great introduction to the beautiful flavors of this Southeast Asian cuisine.

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to cook Com Ga Sot Me?
    The cooking time for Com Ga Sot Me is approximately 45 minutes.
  2. What is the serving size of this recipe?
    This recipe yields about 4 servings.
  3. Can I use a different type of rice?
    While jasmine rice is commonly used in this recipe, you can substitute it with other types of rice, such as basmati or long-grain rice.
  4. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
    Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with tofu or vegetables and using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
  5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
    Yes, you can make the chicken and rice separately ahead of time, and then reheat and assemble them when you're ready to serve.
  6. Is tamarind paste necessary for this recipe?
    Tamarind paste adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the dish, but if you don't have it, you can substitute it with lime juice or rice vinegar.
  7. Can I adjust the level of spiciness?
    Yes, you can adjust the level of spiciness by adding or reducing the amount of chili or omitting it altogether if you prefer a milder dish.
  8. Can I use chicken parts instead of a whole chicken?
    Yes, you can use chicken parts such as thighs or drumsticks instead of a whole chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  9. What can I serve with Com Ga Sot Me?
    Com Ga Sot Me can be enjoyed on its own or served with a side of pickled vegetables or a fresh green salad.
  10. Can I freeze the leftovers?
    Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Com Ga Sot Me, or Vietnamese Tamarind Chicken Rice, is a beloved dish that hails from the vibrant culinary landscape of Vietnam. Its origins can be traced back to the central part of Vietnam, where the locals are known for their skill in mixing contrasting flavors to create unique and delectable dishes. The tamarind, a sour fruit that grows abundantly in the tropical climate of Vietnam, is the star ingredient. It is said that Vietnamese cooks chose to incorporate the tamarind into this dish as a reflection of life's dual nature: the sourness representing the hardships and the sweetness symbolizing the joys. The resulting dish, Com Ga Sot Me, is a balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, served with soft, fluffy Jasmine rice and tender chicken. Its rich and tangy flavor profile is a testament to the culinary ingenuity that has been passed down through generations in Vietnam.

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.