Caramelized Ginger Chicken

Directions

1. 1
   Cut each chicken thigh into three equal pieces.
2. 2
   Place in a large bowl with the ginger, two-thirds of the oil, and salt and pepper.
3. 3
   Cover and marinate for about 6 hours in the refrigerator.
4. 4
   Heat a large, heavy-based frying pan and pour in the remaining oil.
5. 5
   Fry until the meat is colored, about 2 minutes, then drain away the excess oil.
6. 6
   Add the fish sauce, cover the pan with a lid, and steam until the sauce has dissolved, about 1 minute.
7. 7
   Now add the prepared caramel to the pan and cook until the caramel has thickened and coated the chicken in a rich golden color, about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. 8
   To serve, arrange the chicken pieces on a serving platter and garnish with watercress.
9. 9
   Note: To make caramel, place 2/3 cup sugar in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, add 4 tablespoons water, and bring to a boil over medium heat.
10. 10
    Leave to caramelize, about 10-15 minutes.
11. 11
    The caramel will reach a temperature of almost 180 degrees F, so care and attention are required.
12. 12
    To caramelize sugar correctly, invest in a proper sugar thermometer.
13. 13
    Do not leave the pan unattended when sugar is caramelizing.