Proteins are an important constituent of a balanced diet as proteins are the building blocks of the body.  There is constant wear and tear of our muscles and proteins are necessary to replace the old muscles and cells with rejuvenated cells and muscles.

Protein is also needed for healthy skin, hair and healthy functioning of internal organs. But, proteins cannot be manufactured within the body and hence it is important to consume food sources rich in proteins. Here is a recipe that includes two rich sources of protein which are relatively fat-free: lean chicken and peanuts. Cooked in traditional Thai style, this dish is delicious yet healthy.

To make this dish, start by preparing a marinade, grinding together red chilies, garlic cloves, lemon grass, a few coriander seeds and cumin seeds. Marinate small cubes of chicken breast in this paste for at least 2-4 hours. To the marinated chicken also add salt, sugar, dark soy sauce, lemon juice and coconut milk.

After 2 hours, remove the marinated chicken cubes and string them onto wooden skewers and grill them. You can also cook the chicken in a pan by adding a little oil. Ensure the chicken is not overly cooked, it should remain moist and tender.

To make the peanut sauce, add oil to a pan and when it gets a little heated add finely chopped onions and fry till they become pinkish in color. Once the onions change color add about ¼ cup coarsely crushed peanuts and a little water, allowing it to cook. Season the bubbling peanut sauce with brown sugar, salt, and crushed garlic.  Lastly add coconut milk and soy sauce and mix well. If you feel that the consistency of the peanut sauce is too thin, you can add a little corn flour mixed with water and thicken the sauce. But if the consistency of the sauce is too thick, you can adjust it by adding some water or chicken stock to the sauce.

To serve this dish, let the chicken pieces remain on the satay skewers, serve the peanut sauce on the side along with the chicken satay sticks. This dish is traditionally served with steamed rice, but it also goes well as an appetizer.