| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 120 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 265 | 8g | 2g | 18g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 2g | 25g | 1.2g |
Why I Love South Korean Ginseng Chicken Soup
Being a passionate gourmand with a penchant for exploring diverse culinary landscapes, the South Korean Ginseng Chicken Soup is a recipe that never fails to satisfy my adventurous palate. At first glance, the ingredients suggest a nuanced flavor experience, making it an undeniably tantalising recipe that is a pleasure both to make and enjoy.
Blending Cultures in One Pot
Even as my culinary ethos is rooted deeply in the wonderfully comforting dishes of my Irish grandparents and the fresh seafood extravaganzas of my New England upbringing, exploring the far-reaches of global cuisine has always been a venture filled with joy. The Ginseng Chicken Soup, a cherished South Korean specialty, tickles my taste buds with every spoonful and fills me with warmth, akin to the beloved dishes of my own heritage.
My first encounter with this hallowed concoction was on an episode of Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown, and ever since, I have been perpetually drawn to its soothing allure. The delicate balance of flavors and the rich, brothy depth reminds me of the stews that lovingly simmered on my grandma’s stove.
A Complementary Affair
Given the comforting versatility of the Ginseng Chicken Soup, it pairs exquisitely with a variety of dishes. A light, crisp salad would offer a refreshing contrast to its savory richness. On the other hand, a bowl of steamy rice would soak up the soup’s flavorful depths and make a homely, filling meal. It also bears similarities to the traditional chicken soup back home, albeit with an Eastern twist.
This recipe isn’t just about cooking a meal; it’s about traversing cultural borders, bringing the exotic comfort of a distant kitchen right to the heart of your home. The wholesome chicken, reinvigorated with ginseng, jujube, and pepper – it’s a unique gastronomic experience, encapsulating a piece of the vibrant South Korea. Above all, it’s a reminder that no matter where we come from or how divergent our paths may be, food, in its humblest form, brings us together.
What You’ll Need
- 1 whole chicken (around 1.8 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 6 cloves garlic
- 2 ginseng roots
- 1/2 cup glutinous rice, soaked for 1 hour
- 1 large jujube (red date)
- 2 green onions
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 8 cups water
- 6 chestnuts
- 6 ginkgo nuts (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of Korean ginseng powder (optional)
Method
Step One
Start by thoroughly washing and soaking the chicken in cold water for about an hour. Afterward, rub with a tablespoon of salt, making sure to include the inside of the chicken. Rinse and pat dry with paper towels.
Step Two
Stuff the chicken with the soaked glutinous rice, ginseng roots, garlic cloves, and the jujube. Secure the cavity opening using toothpicks or kitchen strings.
Step Three
In a large pot, pour in 8 cups of water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Carefully add the chicken. Allow this to cook at medium heat for about an hour.
Step Four
After an hour, add in the chestnuts and optional ginkgo nuts. Continue to cook the chicken over low heat for another 30 minutes until the chicken becomes soft and the soup turns into a milky color.
Step Five
Finally, season the soup with ground black pepper and Korean ginseng powder (optional). Garnish with green onions before serving.
Step Six
Serve your Ginseng Chicken Soup warm. This soup is ideally served as a meal on its own due to its hearty and filling nature. Enjoy!
