Ginger-Chicken Noodle Soup

Ginger-Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe from China

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 3 hours | Servings: 4

Introduction

Ginger-Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a chilly day or when you're feeling under the weather. This soup is packed with tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and aromatic ginger that will warm you up from the inside out.

History

Chicken noodle soup has been a classic comfort food for centuries, known for its soothing properties and delicious taste. The addition of ginger in this recipe adds a unique twist and brings a burst of flavor to the traditional dish.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1 inch pieces
2 medium carrots, coarsely shredded
2 tbsp dry sherry (optional)
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp grated fresh ginger or 0.5 tsp ground ginger
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
3 x 14 oz (397 g) cans chicken broth
1 cup water
2 oz (57 g) dried rice vermicelli noodles or medium noodles
1 x 6 oz (170 g) package frozen pea pods, thawed and halved diagonally
soy sauce

How to prepare

In a 3.5- to 6 qt (5.68 liter) slow cooker, combine chicken, carrots, sherry (if desired), 1 tbsp of soy sauce, vinegar, ginger, and pepper.
Stir in chicken broth and water.
Cover and cook on high heat setting for 2 to 3 hours.
Stir in noodles and pea pods.
Cover and cook for an additional 5 to 8 minutes or until noodles are tender.
Serve with additional soy sauce.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute tofu for the chicken and vegetable broth for the chicken broth.
Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for added freshness and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken thighs from scratch.

- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup.

- Feel free to customize the vegetables in this soup based on your preferences. You can add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Ginger-Chicken Noodle Soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe utilizes a slow cooker to simmer the ingredients together, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender. Slow cooking also helps to develop a rich and flavorful broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh ginger on hand, you can use ground ginger as a substitute. You can also use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs for a leaner option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Ginger-Chicken Noodle Soup with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or a drizzle of sesame oil for a beautiful and aromatic presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This soup pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light and refreshing beer like a pilsner.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ginger-Chicken Noodle Soup contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ginger-Chicken Noodle Soup contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ginger-Chicken Noodle Soup contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Ginger-Chicken Noodle Soup contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy sauce, which may contain soy and wheat allergens.

Summary

Ginger-Chicken Noodle Soup is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick and easy meal.

Summary

Ginger-Chicken Noodle Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with tender chicken, nutritious vegetables, and aromatic ginger, this soup is sure to warm you up and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy a bowl of this flavorful soup for a cozy and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of wonder. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I had just arrived at my friend Mary's house for dinner. Mary was a fantastic cook, and I always looked forward to her delicious meals. As soon as I stepped into her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the most incredible aroma - a warm, comforting blend of ginger, garlic, and chicken broth.

I peeked over Mary's shoulder as she stirred a large pot filled with steaming broth, chunks of tender chicken, and delicate rice noodles. The soup looked so inviting, with vibrant green scallions and bright orange carrots floating on top. I couldn't wait to taste it.

"What's the secret ingredient in this soup, Mary?" I asked, unable to contain my curiosity.

Mary chuckled and replied, "It's ginger, my dear. Fresh ginger is the key to giving this soup its unique flavor and warmth. It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations."

I watched intently as Mary added a generous amount of grated ginger to the pot, along with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. The fragrant steam wafted up from the pot, enveloping me in its tantalizing embrace. I knew I had to learn how to make this soup for myself.

The next day, I called Mary and asked her to teach me the recipe. She graciously agreed, and we spent a delightful afternoon in her kitchen, chopping vegetables, simmering broth, and stirring in the magical ginger. As the soup came together, I felt a sense of accomplishment and pride. I had unlocked the secrets of Mary's Ginger-Chicken Noodle Soup.

Over the years, I have made this soup countless times, adapting and perfecting the recipe to suit my own tastes. I have added more vegetables, experimented with different types of noodles, and even tried using turkey or shrimp instead of chicken. But no matter how I tweak the recipe, the essence of that first bowl of soup at Mary's house always remains.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to this beloved recipe, I realize that my love of cooking and sharing food with others has been a constant source of joy and inspiration in my life. From my grandmother's hearty stews to Mary's soul-warming soups, each recipe I have learned has brought me closer to the people I care about and the traditions that bind us together.

And so, whenever I make a pot of Ginger-Chicken Noodle Soup and share it with my family and friends, I am reminded of the simple pleasures of good food, good company, and the enduring legacy of recipes passed down through the generations. Cooking is not just about nourishing our bodies; it is a way of connecting with our past, celebrating our present, and building a future filled with love, laughter, and delicious memories.