Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare the Pan and Aromatics

   Heat oil in a pan, then add dashes of sesame oil. Add 1-inch sliced old ginger and saute until slightly browned and fragrant. Next, add 3 cloves of chopped garlic and 6 soaked dried red chilies (remove seeds if you prefer less spice). Saute until the garlic turns slightly golden.

2. 2.Cook the Chicken

   Add 2 to 3 cut chicken drumsticks to the pan. Stir fry at medium-high heat until the chicken pieces are half cooked.

3. 3.Season the Chicken

   Pour in 1 tablespoon of light soy sauce and mix well to coat the chicken. Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of dark soy sauce, adjusting the amount based on desired color, and stir fry briskly. Add sugar to taste and stir for a while.

4. 4.Simmer and Thicken the Sauce

   Add water to the pan to create a saucy consistency and gently stir. Season with salt to taste. Cover the pan and let the chicken simmer for 3 to 5 minutes. After simmering, pour corn slurry over the chicken and mix gently until the sauce thickens.

5. 5.Add Basil and Serve

   Lower the heat. Add basil leaves from 2 to 3 stalks and mix until the leaves turn limp. Turn off the heat and cover the pan for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Transfer the Three Cup Chicken onto a serving plate.