Ginger Chicken

Directions

1. 1
   If you have fresh chiles, stem, seed, and chop them; if dried, soak in warm water for a few minutes until softened, then remove the stems and seeds and chop them.
2. 2
   Heat a wok or large deep skillet over medium-high heat for 2 to 3 minutes.
3. 3
   Add the oil, swirl it around, and add the shallots.
4. 4
   Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 2 minutes.
5. 5
   Add the garlic, about two thirds of the ginger, and the chiles and cook, stirring, for 15 seconds.
6. 6
   Add the chicken and raise the heat to high.
7. 7
   Stir the chicken once, then let it sit for a minute before stirring again.
8. 8
   Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken has lost its pinkness, 3 to 5 minutes.
9. 9
   Reduce the heat to medium.
10. 10
    Add the mushrooms and scallions and cook, stirring occasionally, about 2 minutes.
11. 11
    Stir in the soy sauce, nam pla, and sugar and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2 minutes more.
12. 12
    Add a couple of tablespoons of lime juice, a bit of salt if necessary, and a lot of black pepper.
13. 13
    Taste and adjust the seasoning, then garnish with the reserved ginger and serve.