Name: Red-Cooked Chicken
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Makes 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs, trimmed; 1 cup water; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup sugar; 3 tablespoons medium-dry Sherry; 2 (1/4-inch-thick) slices fresh ginger, smashed; 2 whole star anise; 2 teaspoons cornstarch dissolved in 2 teaspoons cold water; 2 scallions, chopped

Chinese cooks call food braised in soy sauce and sugar "red-cooked" for the reddish-brown tint that can result. While the chicken is braising, steam some rice and broccoli rabe as accompaniments.

Cooks' note:

•Use a paper towel to blot up any last bits of fat from surface of sauce after skimming.

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