Mayo Ponzu Chicken
Grilled Chicken with Ponzu-Mayo Sauce
Have you ever tried the delightful combination of ponzu and mayonnaise?
Ponzu, a citrus-infused soy sauce-based sauce, brings a burst of umami flavor, predominantly from yuzu, along with a refreshing taste. When paired with creamy mayonnaise, it creates a mild yet tantalizing sauce that elevates the flavor of many dishes.
In this recipe, I will be using this dynamic duo to add a twist to grilled chicken, providing a quick and flavorful option for dinner that's a departure from the usual teriyaki.
RECIPE
Servings: 4-5
Time: 20 min
Ingredients:
3 chicken breasts
salt and pepper
2 tbsp ponzu sauce
2 tbsp mayonnaise
2 tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions:
Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of sesame oil.
Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts onto the hot pan. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through.
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the ponzu-mayo sauce. In a small bowl, combine the ponzu sauce, mayonnaise, and sesame seeds. Mix until well incorporated.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and, slice it into bite-sized pieces.
Gently toss the chicken pieces in the sauce until they are evenly coated.
What is Ponzu?
Ponzu is a traditional Japanese condiment that is typically made from a combination of soy sauce, citrus juice (commonly yuzu, but also sometimes lemon or other citrus fruits), and dashi (a Japanese soup stock). This mixture results in a versatile sauce that boasts a unique balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors.
Ponzu sauce is believed to have originated in Japan, where it has been used for centuries as a dipping sauce, marinade, or dressing for various dishes. Its exact origins are somewhat unclear, but it is thought to have evolved from the combination of soy sauce and citrus juice, which were commonly used separately in Japanese cuisine.
Over time, ponzu has become a staple condiment in Japanese cooking, valued for its versatility and ability to enhance a wide range of dishes. It is commonly used as a dipping sauce for grilled meats, and dumplings, as well as a marinade for fish, poultry, and vegetables. Ponzu can also be mixed with other ingredients, such as mayonnaise as in the recipe provided earlier, to create flavorful sauces and dressings.
