Deutsch: Gegrilltes Huhn / Español: Pollo a la parrilla / Português: Frango grelhado / Français: Poulet grillé / Italiano: Pollo alla griglia

Inihaw na Manok in the food context refers to a Filipino dish of grilled chicken. This popular dish is known for its flavorful marinade, which often includes soy sauce, vinegar, calamansi juice (a Philippine lime), garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper, infusing the chicken with a distinctive savory taste with hints of sweetness and tanginess. The chicken is then grilled over charcoal, giving it a smoky aroma and slightly charred exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Inihaw na Manok is a staple at Filipino gatherings, reflecting the country's rich tradition of barbecued and grilled foods.

Description

The appeal of Inihaw na Manok lies in its harmonious blend of flavors that are deeply marinated into the chicken before it's grilled to perfection. The marinade not only flavors the chicken but also tenderizes it, ensuring that each bite is succulent and full of taste. The grilling process adds a delightful smokiness and chars to the chicken, creating a contrast in textures between the crispy skin and the tender meat within.

Application Areas

Inihaw na Manok is commonly enjoyed as:

• Main Dish: Often served with steamed rice or over a bed of grilled vegetables.
• Festive Food: A popular choice for celebrations, fiestas, and family gatherings.
• Street Food: Available at street food stalls, where it's typically served with a side of dipping sauce, such as a spiced vinegar or a sweet and spicy sauce.

Well-Known Examples

While Inihaw na Manok itself is a specific dish, variations might include:

• Inihaw na Manok with Lemongrass: Incorporating lemongrass inside the chicken cavity for an aromatic flavor.
• Spicy Inihaw na Manok: Adding chili peppers to the marinade for those who prefer a spicy kick.
• Inihaw na Manok with Coconut Milk: Marinating the chicken in coconut milk for a creamier flavor profile.

Recipes

A basic recipe for Inihaw na Manok involves:

1. Ingredients:

   • Whole chicken or chicken parts
   • 1/2 cup soy sauce
   • 1/4 cup vinegar or calamansi juice
   • 6 cloves garlic, minced
   • 3 tablespoons sugar
   • Salt and pepper to taste
   • Optional: lemongrass, chili peppers, or coconut milk for variations

2. Preparation:

   • Combine soy sauce, vinegar or calamansi juice, garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl to make the marinade. Add lemongrass or chili peppers if using.
   • Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight, in the refrigerator.
   • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
   • Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until cooked through and the skin is crispy, about 30 minutes for whole chicken or 10-15 minutes for parts.
   • Serve hot with a side of steamed rice and dipping sauce.

Treatment and Risks

When preparing Inihaw na Manok, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked is crucial to avoid foodborne illnesses. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety. Due to the sugar content in the marinade, watch the chicken closely while grilling to prevent excessive charring or burning.

Similar Terms or Synonyms

• Grilled Chicken

Summary

Inihaw na Manok is a celebrated Filipino grilled chicken dish, marinated in a blend of soy sauce, vinegar or calamansi, and spices, then grilled to smoky perfection. It's a flavorful and satisfying meal that captures the essence of Filipino culinary tradition, perfect for any dining occasion from casual street food to festive celebrations.

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