This impressive dinner-party dish from Laos will wow your guests; they won't believe how easy it is! Chicken substitutes well for the duck.
INGREDIENTS (for 8 servings):
- 4 cups uncooked jasmine rice
- 15 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon whole peppercorns
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon yellow curry powder
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 (4 pound) duck, boned
- 5 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 6 1/2 cups water
- 6 small green onion, thinly sliced
PREPARATION:
In a large bowl, soak rice in cold water to soak while preparing the rest of the recipe.
In a small bowl, using the back of a spoon, smash into a paste the garlic, pepper, salt, curry, and turmeric. Drizzle in the soy sauce as you continue to smash. Set spice aside.
Cut the duck into a dozen pieces, removing the fat and thick skin.
Drain soaking rice, and set aside. Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a wide pot over medium-high heat, stir in the spice paste, and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in duck pieces; cook about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until lightly browned. Pour in 2 cups water, bring to a boil, and simmer 10 minutes. Pour in remaining water and vegetable oil; return contents to boil. Add rice to pot. Water should cover the rice by 1/2 inch. Return to a boil and cook, covered tightly, 15 to 20 minutes, until rice is tender.
Remove pot from heat. Let stand, covered, 5 to 10 minutes. Turn out onto serving platter, and garnish with green onions.
Substitution Suggestion:If using chicken, cut 2 pounds of meat into 1-inch chunks. The above spices even work with beef, just add 2 tablespoons of minced ginger to the paste.