Golden Chicken Clear Gourd Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a light yet satisfying meal. This simple recipe uses readily available ingredients to create a flavorful and subtly sweet broth, highlighting the delicate taste of the clear gourd (also known as winter melon or ash gourd) and the savory richness of chicken. The soup's vibrant golden hue comes naturally from the ingredients, making it visually appealing as well as delicious. Its gentle warmth soothes the body and soul, providing a healthy and delicious escape from the everyday.
This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. The light yet flavorful broth is surprisingly simple to achieve, requiring minimal effort for maximum taste. To discover the step-by-step process of creating this delightful Golden Chicken Clear Gourd Soup, read on!
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Mortar and pestle
- Pot
- Spoon
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: 1 piece (350 grams)
- Galangal roots: 3
- Coriander roots: 3
- Peppercorns: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic cloves: 4
- Salt: 3 scoops
- Sugar
- Seasoning powder
- Light soy sauce
- Cornstarch
- Carrots
- Pumpkin
- Coriander (for soup): 2-3 roots
- Chicken or pork soup stock: 1-2 cubes
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Marinade
- Finely chop the chicken breast.
- Pound 3 galangal roots, 3 coriander roots, 1 teaspoon peppercorns, and 4 garlic cloves.
- In a pot, combine the pounded ingredients, 3 scoops of salt, chicken broth, sugar, seasoning powder, light soy sauce, and a little cornstarch. Mix well to marinate the chicken.
- make flower shapes for added visual appeal). Ensure consistent thickness for even cooking.
Step 2. Prepare the Broth and Vegetables
- In a separate pot, add water, 2-3 coriander roots, 1 teaspoon salt, 1-2 cubes of soup stock, seasoning powder, light soy sauce, and sugar. Season to taste and mix well.
- Bring the water to a boil. Add carrots and pumpkin and cook until slightly softened.
Step 3. Cook the Soup
- Add the marinated chicken mixture to the pot. Cover and let it cook until the vegetables and chicken are tender.
Step 4. Season and Serve
- Check for doneness. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot.
Read more: Creamy Thai Coconut Turkey Meatballs: Easy Recipe
Tips
- Cut chicken into small pieces before chopping for easier handling.
- Add more chicken for larger families.
- Cover the pot to speed up cooking.
- Use a spoon to shape the chicken in the soup for a neat presentation.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 200-250
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbs: 15-20g
- Protein: 25-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this soup?
Yes! Bone-in chicken will add more depth of flavor to the broth. Just remember to increase the simmering time to allow the bone to release its flavor.
2. What if I don't have clear gourd? Can I substitute it with something else?
While clear gourd provides the best texture and subtle sweetness, you could try substituting it with butternut squash or pumpkin. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
3. How can I make this soup even more flavorful?
Add a few slices of ginger or a couple of scallions for extra aroma and a touch of spiciness. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro at the end also enhances the flavor.
This Golden Chicken Clear Gourd Soup is a testament to the beauty of simple cooking; a few fresh ingredients and a little time create a nourishing and flavorful meal. Enjoy this comforting soup as a light lunch, a warming dinner, or a soothing remedy on a chilly day. We hope you enjoy making and savoring this delicious and easy recipe!