Chicken stock cubes are a versatile kitchen ingredient used to add depth of flavour to various dishes. You can incorporate them into your cooking in a few simple ways, depending on your desired outcome and the recipe.
Here are the primary methods for using chicken stock cubes:
Simple Ways to Use Chicken Stock Cubes
Based on common usage and the provided reference, you have a few straightforward options:
- Dissolve in Boiling Water: This is perhaps the most traditional method. You dissolve the cube to create a liquid stock that can then be added to soups, stews, sauces, or used as a cooking liquid for grains like rice or quinoa.
- Add Directly to the Dish: For dishes like casseroles, pasta sauces, or slow cooks, you can often crumble or add the cube directly into the pot. As the dish cooks and liquid is present, the cube will dissolve and distribute its flavour throughout the ingredients.
- Rub onto Meat: A less common but effective method is to use the stock cube as a flavour rub for meat before cooking. Combining it with a little oil helps it adhere and penetrate the surface of the meat, adding a savoury boost.
Method Details
Let's look at each method in more detail:
Method 1: Creating Liquid Stock
This is ideal when a recipe calls for a specific amount of liquid stock.
- Step 1: Bring 450 ml of water to a rolling boil.
- Step 2: Add one chicken stock cube to the boiling water.
- Step 3: Stir until the cube is completely dissolved.
- Step 4: Use the resulting liquid stock as needed in your recipe.
This method ensures the flavour is evenly distributed in the liquid before it's added to your dish.
Method 2: Direct Addition
This technique is convenient for dishes with sufficient moisture and cooking time for the cube to break down naturally.
- Step 1: Prepare your dish as usual.
- Step 2: Add one chicken stock cube directly into the pot or pan with other ingredients.
- Step 3: Ensure there is enough liquid (like sauce, simmering water, or moisture from vegetables/meat) in the dish to help the cube dissolve as it cooks.
- Step 4: Stir occasionally to help the cube break apart and integrate into the dish.
This method is great for enriching slow-cooked meals or hearty one-pot wonders.
Method 3: Using as a Meat Rub
This method infuses the surface of meat with flavour before cooking, adding a delicious crust.
- Step 1: Crumble one chicken stock cube into a small bowl.
- Step 2: Add a little olive oil (or another preferred oil) to the crumbled cube.
- Step 3: Mix the cube and oil together to form a paste or rub.
- Step 4: Thoroughly rub the mixture onto the surface of your cut of meat before cooking (e.g., chicken pieces, pork chops).
This simple rub can add significant savoury flavour to roasted, grilled, or pan-fried meats.
By following these simple steps, you can effectively use chicken stock cubes to enhance the flavour of your cooking. For additional recipe ideas, you can often find inspiration on the manufacturer's website.
