2. Add fish sauce mixture and stir until sugar caramelizes and turns golden brown. Add chicken and stir until opaque, about 2 minutes. Add chilies, ginger and black pepper, and stir for 2 minutes. Add stock or water, raise heat to high, and bring to a boil. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until sauce is reduced and thickened and chicken is cooked, about 5 more minutes. Stir in cilantro and, if desired, serve over rice.

Yield: 2 servings.