Delicious and Authentic Vietnamese Xoi Ga Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of sticky rice (also known as glutinous rice)
  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves of garlic, crushed
  • 2 tablespoons of fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons of fried shallots
  • 1 bunch of fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon of salt
  • 2 cups of water

Steps and instructions

  1. Soak the sticky rice in a bowl of water for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. After soaking, rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. While the rice is soaking, cook the chicken. Place the chicken breasts in a pot with the 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 20-30 minutes. Once cooked, remove chicken from the pot, let it cool and shred it into small pieces. Set aside the chicken broth for later use.
  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and crushed garlic and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
  4. Add the shredded chicken into the pan. Then, add the fish sauce, sugar, and ground black pepper. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Set the chicken mixture aside.
  5. Drain the soaked and rinsed sticky rice. Put the rice in a steamer and steam it over high heat for about 20 minutes or until the rice becomes transparent and tender. If the rice appears too dry, you can add some of the reserved chicken broth.
  6. Once the rice is cooked, mix it with the prepared chicken mixture. Stir well to make sure that the rice is evenly coated with the sauce.
  7. Serve the Xoi Ga topped with fried shallots, fresh cilantro and with cucumber slices on the side.

Tools for making

  • Sticky rice steamer - A steamer or a steaming basket specifically designed for sticky rice is ideal for cooking the rice to perfection.
  • Pot - You'll need a pot to cook the chicken breasts and make the chicken broth.
  • Pan - A pan will be used to sauté the onions and garlic, as well as cook the chicken mixture.
  • Bowl - A bowl will be used to soak the sticky rice before cooking.
  • Knife - A knife will be needed to finely chop the onion and crush the garlic.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board is essential for safely chopping the onion and other ingredients.
  • Measuring cups and spoons - Measuring cups and spoons will ensure accurate measurements of ingredients.
  • Spatula or wooden spoon - You'll need a spatula or wooden spoon for stirring and mixing the ingredients.
  • Steamer liner or banana leaves - To prevent the sticky rice from sticking to the steamer, you can use a steamer liner or banana leaves.

Recipe variations

  • Use different proteins such as pork, beef, or shrimp instead of chicken
  • Add vegetables like steamed corn, carrots, or peas to the chicken mixture
  • Try different sauces or marinades for the chicken, such as soy sauce or oyster sauce
  • Make it vegetarian by using tofu or tempeh instead of chicken
  • Add spices like lemongrass or ginger to the chicken mixture for added flavor
  • Experiment with different toppings such as crushed peanuts or sesame seeds
  • For a sweeter version, add coconut milk to the sticky rice while cooking
  • Make it spicy by adding chili flakes or sriracha to the chicken mixture
  • Add sliced Vietnamese sausage (gio lua) to the chicken mixture for an extra twist of flavor
  • Serve with a side of pickled vegetables or kimchi

Recipe overview

Xoi Ga, or Vietnamese Chicken Sticky Rice, is a beloved dish originating from Vietnam's bustling street food scene. This delectable recipe combines tender, shredded chicken and fragrant, glutinous rice for a satisfying and fulfilling meal. The preparation process involves a mix of sautéing, steaming, and simmering, resulting in a dish bursting with flavors and textures. With a beautiful topping of crispy fried shallots and fresh cilantro, Xoi Ga is a treat for the eyes as well as the palate. Accompanied by refreshing cucumber slices, this dish brings together a wonderful mix of taste and health. Whether you're looking to explore Vietnamese cuisine or simply searching for a comforting, hearty meal, Xoi Ga is a recipe worth trying.

Common questions

  1. Can I use regular rice instead of sticky rice?
  2. No, sticky rice is essential for this recipe. Regular rice will not give the same texture and consistency.
  3. Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
  4. Yes, you can use other meats such as shredded pork or beef as a substitute for chicken. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the meat you choose.
  5. What can I use as a vegetarian option?
  6. You can omit the chicken and use vegetables like mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh as a vegetarian alternative. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste.
  7. Where can I find glutinous rice?
  8. Glutinous rice is commonly available in Asian grocery stores or online. Look for rice labeled as "sticky rice" or "glutinous rice."
  9. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
  10. Yes, you can make the chicken mixture and cook the sticky rice in advance. When serving, reheat the chicken mixture and mix it with the steamed rice. Add a little chicken broth to moisten if needed.
  11. Can I freeze the leftovers?
  12. While it is possible to freeze the leftovers, the texture of the sticky rice may change slightly when thawed. It is best to consume the dish fresh for optimal taste and texture.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Steamer - A steamer is essential for properly cooking the sticky rice.
  • Pot - A pot is needed to boil and simmer the chicken breasts.
  • Pan - A pan is used to sauté the onion and garlic, and cook the chicken mixture.
  • Knife - A knife is necessary for chopping the onion, crushing the garlic, and slicing the cucumber.
  • Cutting board - A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping and slicing ingredients.
  • Bowl - A bowl is used for soaking the sticky rice and can also be used for serving.
  • Serving plate - A serving plate is needed to present and serve the Xoi Ga.
  • Tongs or fork - Tongs or a fork can be helpful for shredding the cooked chicken.
  • Spatula or wooden spoon - A spatula or wooden spoon is useful for stirring and mixing the ingredients.
  • Steaming cloth - A steaming cloth can be used to cover the steamer and prevent condensation from dripping onto the rice.

Origin stories

Xoi Ga, a comforting blend of sticky rice and chicken, has its roots in the bustling streets and humble homes of Vietnam. It's a dish that embodies the heart of Vietnamese cooking – simplicity, balance and the careful use of ingredients. In Vietnam, you can find Xoi Ga at the break of dawn being sold by vendors in every nook and corner. This dish is not just a meal; it's a celebration of community. It's a dish that has nourished generations, a warm embrace during the chilly monsoon season, and a satisfying meal that keeps the hard-working people of Vietnam going through their day. As you cook this dish, imagine yourself in a small kitchen in Hanoi, with the aroma of garlic and onions wafting through the air and mingling with the scent of the bustling city outside, bringing a piece of Vietnamese tradition into your home.

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.