Pau Hana Hot Chicken with Cold Ginger Sauce

By ShazInNV

From Sam Choy: In Hawai'i when you are done with work, it's "pau hana" time. Literally it translates to mean pau = finished, hana = work. For some people, it's the reason for the workday -- a cold beer, some tasty pupus (appetizers), and a good talk-story session. The next time you and your co-workers get together for a pau hana party, take along this chicken treat. You can make it ahead of time and put the chicken in the microwave to heat it up before serving. If you don't have pau hana gatherings at your job, it may be time to start a new tradition.

Ingredients

• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 6 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
• Cold Ginger Sauce (below)
• Cold Ginger Sauce (makes 1/2 cup)
• 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup lemon juice
• 2 Tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 Tablespoon peeled and finely grated fresh ginger
• 3 Tablespoons sherry
• 3 Tablespoons chopped scallions or green onions
• 3 Tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Preparation

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, combine the water, cilantro, ginger, and salt. Bring to a boil and add the chicken; reduce heat and simmer for 6 to 8 minutes, or until tender. Remove chicken from water. Cut into 1-inch strips and arrange on a platter. Top with cold ginger sauce.


For Cold Ginger Sauce:

Mix sugar and lemon juice until sugar dissolves. Add soy sauce, ginger, sherry, green onion, and cilantro. Let stand for 1 hour, covered in refrigerator.