Litsong Manok, also known as "Lechon Manok," is a popular and beloved Filipino dish that showcases a whole roasted chicken, marinated and seasoned to perfection. This flavorful and succulent roast chicken is a favorite among Filipinos and is often served during special occasions, family gatherings, and celebrations. The dish is characterized by its crispy and golden skin, tender and juicy meat, and aromatic flavors that tantalize the taste buds. Whether enjoyed on its own, paired with traditional Filipino condiments, or served as part of a larger feast, Litsong Manok is a classic and delicious addition to Filipino cuisine. Let's explore the world of Litsong Manok and learn how to create this delectable and mouthwatering roast chicken in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 to 2 kg), cleaned and patted dry - 1 head of garlic, minced - 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 1/4 cup lemon juice or calamansi juice - 2 tablespoons fish sauce - 2 tablespoons brown sugar - 1 teaspoon ground black pepper - 1 teaspoon salt - 1 stalk lemongrass, pounded and tied into a knot (optional) - 4 to 5 pieces bay leaves - Cooking oil or melted butter for basting - Bamboo skewers or kitchen twine for securing the chicken
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Ensure that the chicken is thoroughly cleaned, removing any innards and excess fat. Rinse the chicken under cold running water and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, lemon juice (or calamansi juice), fish sauce, brown sugar, ground black pepper, and salt to create the marinade.
- Rub the marinade all over the chicken, making sure to get it evenly coated, including the cavity of the chicken.
- For enhanced flavor, stuff the cavity of the chicken with the pounded lemongrass and bay leaves.
- Cover the chicken and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or, preferably, overnight. This allows the flavors to infuse into the meat.
3. Prepare for Roasting:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting. This helps the chicken cook more evenly.
4. Truss the Chicken:
- To ensure even cooking and a beautiful presentation, truss the chicken by tying the legs together using bamboo skewers or kitchen twine.
- Tuck the wings under the body of the chicken to prevent them from burning during roasting.
5. Roast the Litsong Manok:
- Place the trussed chicken on a roasting pan or baking dish, breast-side up.
- Baste the chicken with cooking oil or melted butter to promote browning and crispiness.
- Cover the chicken loosely with aluminum foil for the first 30 minutes of roasting to prevent the skin from burning.
- Roast the Litsong Manok in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin turns golden brown and crispy.
6. Rest and Serve:
- Once the Litsong Manok is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 to 15 minutes before carving.
- Carve the chicken into serving pieces, and arrange it on a serving platter.
- Serve the flavorful and succulent Litsong Manok with steamed rice and traditional Filipino condiments like lechon sauce or spiced vinegar.
Litsong Manok is a delectable and flavorful Filipino roast chicken that captures the essence of Filipino cuisine. With its tender and juicy meat, crispy and golden skin, and aromatic flavors, this beloved dish is a crowd-pleaser that brings joy to every dining table. The marriage of traditional Filipino seasonings and the roasting process elevates the humble chicken into a festive and celebratory centerpiece. So, why not try making this delightful Litsong Manok and savor the taste of Filipino culinary tradition in your own home!
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