Chinese herbal chicken soup is not only a delicious dish but also a perfect blend of traditional flavors and nutritional benefits from natural herbs. With the aroma of chicken, the sweetness of vegetables, and the richness of herbal ingredients, a bowl of Chinese herbal chicken soup is not just a meal but a holistic health booster. Let's explore and master the art of making this special dish in the following guide.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into pieces
  • 8 cups chicken broth (or water)
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 stalks of celery, sliced
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried ginseng
  • 1 teaspoon dried Astragalus root
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

  • Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.

2. Sear the Chicken:

  • Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Add a little oil to the pot.
  • Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces to the pot and sear until golden brown on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
  • Then, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

3. Sauté Vegetables and Herbs:

Rất Hay: 2 Cách Hầm Gà Thuốc Bắc Ngon Mềm Lại Cực Bổ Dưỡng

  • In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, and celery.
  • Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  • Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  • Next, add bay leaves, dried thyme, dried ginseng, and dried Astragalus root to the pot.

4. Simmer the Soup:

  • Return the seared chicken pieces to the pot.
  • Pour chicken broth (or water) into the pot until the chicken is submerged.
  • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 1 hour.

5. Finish the Soup:

  • Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  • Let the soup simmer on low heat for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

  • Ladle the hot Chinese herbal chicken soup into bowls.
  • Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
  • Serve hot and savor the harmonious blend of traditional flavors and nutritional benefits from natural herbs.

With this simple guide, you can confidently prepare a delicious and nourishing bowl of Chinese herbal chicken soup. Try it out and delight your friends and family with this special dish!