My Nominee for Best Supporting Role

Confession: I love Food Network. A lot. “Iron Chef,” “Cupcake Wars,” “Chopped,” “The Next Food Network Star”… I wish I could be a judge for any of those nighttime reality food shows; I’m drooling just imagining all of the tempting creations those chefs concoct!

 

But recently, a different network and program caught my eye. “Top Chef” on Bravo, based in Texas, produces a similarly impressive display of dishes from their own original and whimsical challenges. While showing the chefs slice, simmer, and sauté, the TV often cuts to commercials at the most inopportune moments.  

 

A common offender, the Healthy Choice ads feature sound bytes and close-up screen shots presenting the importance of the supporting role ingredients in their entrées. They designate entire commercials to tender apple chunks in their pumpkin squash ravioli and fresh basil in their chicken margherita with balsamic.

 

After watching multiple repetitions and variations, I knew I needed to give some star time to an accompaniment of my own: the gingered soy sauce I created for my chicken and garlicky mashed peas. With its addictive spicy notes, it quickly becomes the best taste on the plate!

 

 

Saucy Chicken, Onion, and Sweet Peas

serves 1

Feel free to swap out your favorite veggies! Carrots and bell peppers would work well too. Serve with rice.

1 medium chicken tenderloin, cut into bite-sized chunks

½ of a medium onion, sliced thinly

1 large handful of snap peas, cut into bite-sized pieces

¼ tsp ground ginger

⅛ tsp cornstarch

½ tsp low-sodium soy sauce

1 tsp rice vinegar

2 tbsp water

1. Lightly mist a large pan with nonstick cooking spray, and cook the onions over medium heat for 4-5 min, stirring frequently, or until they soften and begin to turn translucent. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
2. Add the chicken and continue to cook for another 3-4 min, or until chicken is no longer pink on the inside. Add the peas and sauté for another 1-2 min.
3. Reduce the heat to low. Whisk together the remaining ingredients, and add to the pan. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for another 4-5 min or until the sauce thickens. Plate and serve hot.