Changde Medicinal Braised Chicken

Changde Medicinal Braised Chicken

　　Braised chicken is a traditional Chinese delicacy. Changde Medicinal Braised Chicken draws on the strengths of various styles and incorporates the techniques of master chefs, becoming one of Changde’s signature dishes. It offers high nutritional value—per 500 grams of chicken, it contains 113 grams of protein, 88 grams of fat, 37 grams of carbohydrates, 98 milligrams of calcium, 99.5 milligrams of carbon, 0.22 milligrams of vitamin B1, 0.84 milligrams of vitamin B2, and 40 milligrams of niacin. Additionally, Changde Medicinal Braised Chicken has notable medicinal benefits. It is simmered in a brine made from over 20 herbs and ingredients, including gastrodia elata, codonopsis root, goji berries, and eucommia bark, which help strengthen bones and muscles, regulate qi and improve digestion, as well as dispel wind and clear heat. The preparation of Changde Medicinal Braised Chicken is meticulous, using only tender, plump hen chickens. After slaughtering and removing feathers and internal organs, the chicken is soaked in cold water for an hour. It is then drained, with the legs crossed backward and the claws tucked into the cavity. The wings are inserted through the neck opening and crossed out of the beak, creating the appearance of a chick holding its wings. The chicken is coated with maltose or honey, then deep-fried until the skin becomes wrinkled. It is then simmered in the pre-prepared medicinal broth. Once braised, the chicken is further stewed until tender, removed, cooled on a plate, brushed with sesame oil, and the dish is complete. Changde Medicinal Braised Chicken has a plump shape, elegant appearance, golden and glossy color, tender and soft meat, crispy joints, and distinct medicinal properties. It is an ideal delicacy and tonic. Everyone who visits Changde makes a point to try it at a local braised chicken shop or bring back a couple for family and friends to enjoy. (Changde)