Shredded Chicken Aspic

Shredded Chicken Aspic

　　Shredded Chicken Aspic

　　Salted Chicken is a dish suitable for all seasons. In summer, "wine-soaked chicken" is preferred, in winter, "fermented chicken," but in spring, the most flavorful and visually appealing choice is "Shredded Chicken Aspic." The preparation involves using one whole young chicken, plucked and cleaned thoroughly, along with one pig’s trotter tip. Simmer them together in a broth of salted water and cooking wine until tender. Remove the chicken, discard the pig’s trotter tip, and clarify the chicken broth by straining out impurities. Pour the clarified broth into a large basin or plate. Then, shred the tender breast meat of the chicken into fine strands and sprinkle them into the broth, but avoid adding too much chicken to maintain an attractive presentation. The chicken aspic takes on the color of Shaoxing wine—transparent like yellow jade or patterned like amber. Further decoration is added by arranging finely chopped cilantro leaves over the aspic. When serving, slice the aspic into domino-sized pieces with a knife and arrange them on a white plate. With its beautiful color and delicious taste, it makes a perfect light dish for springtime drinking.