Indonesian Chicken-Peanut Soup

Indonesian Chicken-Peanut Soup Recipe - Authentic & Flavorful

Region / culture: Indonesia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Indonesian Chicken-Peanut Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of chicken, peanuts, and a hint of sweetness from molasses. This soup is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests with a unique and flavorful dish.

History

This recipe has its roots in Indonesian cuisine, where peanuts are a common ingredient in many dishes. The combination of chicken and peanuts in a soup is a popular and traditional dish that has been enjoyed for generations.

Ingredients

4 cups chicken stock
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 and 0.5 tbsp molasses
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, pressed or mashed
0.25 cup peanut butter
0.33 cup peanuts, chopped
1 cup cooked chicken, slivered
0.5 cup green onions, sliced in rounds

Garnish

green onions, sliced lengthwise into thin strips then latticed across the top of each bowl

How to prepare

In a large saucepan, combine the stock, soy sauce, molasses, lemon juice, and garlic. It may seem like an unusual combination at first, but it blends together into a flavorful broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for about 15 minutes.
Whisk in the peanut butter, then continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
When ready to serve, stir in the peanuts, chicken, and scallions. Heat through, then ladle into soup bowls and garnish the tops with strips of scallions. Serve immediately.

Variations

Add some heat to the soup by including a chopped chili pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute tofu for the chicken.
Experiment with different nut butters, such as almond or cashew, for a unique twist on this recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor in this soup.

- Adjust the amount of soy sauce and molasses to suit your taste preferences.

- For a thicker soup, you can add more peanut butter or simmer the soup for longer to reduce the liquid.

Serving Suggestions

This soup can be served as a main dish with a side of rice or noodles, or as a starter before a larger meal. It pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

The key to this recipe is simmering the broth slowly to allow the flavors to meld together. Be sure to stir in the peanut butter at the end to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have chicken stock on hand, you can use vegetable broth as a substitute. You can also use almond butter or sunflower seed butter in place of peanut butter.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of soup with a lattice of sliced green onions for a beautiful and elegant presentation. You can also sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top for added texture.

Pairing Recommendations

This soup pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Riesling. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a glass of iced tea or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 300 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal.

Carbohydrates

This soup is relatively low in carbohydrates, with most of the carbs coming from the peanuts and a small amount from the molasses.

Fats

The main source of fat in this soup comes from the peanuts and peanut butter, which provide healthy fats that are good for heart health.

Proteins

The chicken in this soup is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the lemon juice and garlic, as well as iron and potassium from the peanuts.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts and soy sauce, which are common allergens. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving this dish.

Summary

Overall, this Indonesian Chicken-Peanut Soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Indonesian Chicken-Peanut Soup is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of chicken, peanuts, and a hint of sweetness. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests with a unique and delicious dish.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, during a trip to Indonesia, where I was introduced to the rich and flavorful cuisine of this beautiful country. I remember walking through the bustling streets of Jakarta, the capital city, and being overwhelmed by the sights, sounds, and smells of the local food stalls.

One particular stall caught my eye, with its enticing aroma of spices and herbs wafting through the air. I approached the stall and was greeted by a friendly elderly woman who was busy preparing a steaming pot of soup. She gestured for me to sit down and handed me a bowl of the most delicious chicken-peanut soup I had ever tasted.

As I savored each spoonful, I knew that I had to learn how to make this soup for myself. I struck up a conversation with the woman, who introduced herself as Ibu Siti, and begged her to teach me her recipe. She smiled warmly and agreed, inviting me to her humble home the next day.

Ibu Siti's home was a small and cozy wooden house, filled with the rich scents of spices and herbs. She welcomed me into her kitchen and began to show me the ingredients and techniques needed to make the Indonesian Chicken-Peanut Soup. I watched intently as she chopped the chicken, crushed the peanuts, and mixed the spices together in a large pot.

As the soup simmered on the stove, I listened to Ibu Siti's stories of her family and her love for cooking. She explained that this soup was a traditional dish in Indonesia, often served at special occasions and gatherings. The combination of tender chicken, creamy peanut sauce, and fragrant spices made it a favorite among her family and friends.

After several hours of cooking and stirring, the soup was finally ready. Ibu Siti ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a sprinkle of fried shallots and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. I took my first bite and was transported back to the bustling streets of Jakarta, where I had first tasted this delicious dish.

I thanked Ibu Siti profusely for sharing her recipe with me and promised to carry on the tradition of making Indonesian Chicken-Peanut Soup in my own home. She smiled and embraced me warmly, wishing me luck and happiness in my culinary adventures.

Since that day, I have made this soup countless times for my family and friends, each time bringing back memories of my time in Indonesia and the kind-hearted woman who shared her recipe with me. I have added my own personal touch to the dish, experimenting with different spices and ingredients to create a version that is uniquely mine.

As I sit here now, preparing a pot of Indonesian Chicken-Peanut Soup for dinner, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and people who have influenced my love for cooking. Ibu Siti's recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the beauty and richness of Indonesian cuisine.

And as I take my first spoonful of the fragrant and flavorful soup, I am transported once again to that small kitchen in Jakarta, where I learned the art of creating a dish that brings joy and comfort to all who taste it.