Chinese Red Cooked Soy Sauce Chicken Recipe

This recipe for soy sauce chicken is an example of red cooking, whereby meat or poultry is simmered in a soy sauce-based liquid with seasonings. Chicken cooked this way is very juicy, with the meat coming easily off the bone. The rich sauce can be used again the next time you prepare soy sauce chicken or other red-cooked dishes; just add more soy sauce and/or spices as needed. Over time, the sauce becomes even richer, with a fuller flavor. Star anise and szechuan peppercorn can be purchased at asian markets, or you can substitute 1 1/2 teaspoons five-spice powder and black peppercorns.