Dive into a harmonious evening with Pineapple Cranberry Chicken, coupled with the intriguing narrative of "The Vanishing Half" by Brit Bennett. The vibrant flavors of sweet pineapple and tart cranberries are perfectly complemented by a Honey Pineapple Mojito, a refreshing cocktail that echoes the dish's tropical notes. Brit Bennett's exploration of identity and family tension enriches the meal with thoughtful reflections, making this pairing a feast for both the mind and palate.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season and Sear the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the pineapple chunks and cranberries. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, ground ginger, cinnamon, and the reserved pineapple juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Simmer the Chicken:
- Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the pineapple-cranberry mixture. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Thicken the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Transfer the chicken to serving plates and spoon the pineapple-cranberry sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
The Vanishing Half
In "The Vanishing Half," Brit Bennett explores the lives of two black twin sisters who run away from their small Southern town at age sixteen. Their lives diverge drastically: one sister returns home with her black daughter, while the other secretly passes for white in Los Angeles, living a life her sister finds hard to imagine. Spanning from the 1950s to the 1990s, the novel is a profound exploration of race, family, and identity.
The Vignes twin sisters will always be identical. Inseparable as children, they ultimately choose to live in two different worlds, one black and one white. An exploration of the American history of passing.
Discussion Questions
- How do you interpret the different paths the sisters take, and what does it say about identity and choice?
- What role does secrecy play in the novel, especially in the relationships?
- How does the novel address the complexities of racial and gender identity?
- In what ways do the towns of Mallard and Los Angeles reflect or contrast with each other in the novel?
- Discuss the impact of family dynamics and expectations on the characters.
- How do the different generations of women in the novel influence each other?
- What does the novel suggest about the possibility of truly knowing oneself?
- In what ways does "The Vanishing Half" challenge the traditional notion of the American Dream?
- How does Brit Bennett use language to deepen our understanding of the characters' internal conflicts?
- What do you think is the significance of the title "The Vanishing Half"?
Authors:
Brit Bennett
ISBN: 0525536299
Publisher: National Geographic Books
Published Date: 2021-01-12
Honey Pineapple Mojito
The Honey Pineapple Mojito is a refreshing cocktail that pairs beautifully with Pineapple Cranberry Chicken. The natural sweetness of honey and pineapple compliments the dish, while mint and lime add a fresh zest.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 ounce fresh lime juice
- 10-12 fresh mint leaves
- 2 ounces white rum
- Club soda
- Pineapple slices and mint sprigs for garnish
Instructions
- In a glass, muddle the mint leaves with lime juice and honey until the mint is aromatic.
- Add the pineapple juice and white rum to the glass.
- Fill the glass with ice and top with a splash of club soda.
- Garnish with a pineapple slice and mint sprig. Serve immediately.