Filipino Chicken with Carrots Recipe

Arrange chicken, skin side up, and carrot chunks in shallow Dutch oven or skillet to fit snugly. Scatter gingerroot, garlic, 2 bay leaves, 6 cloves and 1/2 tsp (2 mL) pepper between and around chicken pieces. Pour in vinegar and soy sauce. Bring to boil over medium-high heat; reduce heat and simmer until vinegary smell dissipates, about 5 minutes.

Cover pot and simmer on low, turning chicken halfway through, until chicken is no longer pink in centre, about 30 minutes. Using tongs, transfer chicken to warm plate. Simmer, covered, until carrots are tender, about 10 minutes. Skim fat from top. Add celery; boil over medium-high heat until sauce is thick enough to coat spoon, about 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, in large skillet, heat 2 tbsp (30 mL) vegetable oil over medium-high heat; brown chicken on both sides in 2 batches if necessary. Transfer chicken to serving dish. Spoon carrots and sauce over chicken.

Makes 4 to 6 servings.