Sesame Chicken Soup

Sesame Chicken Soup Recipe from Taiwan - Ingredients: Chicken, Ginger Root, Sherry, Water, Sugar, Salt

Region / culture: Taiwan | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Sesame Chicken Soup is a traditional Chinese dish that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This soup is known for its rich and savory flavor, making it a popular choice for many families. In this article, we will explore the history of the recipe, cooking tips and tricks, as well as nutrition information and serving suggestions.

History

Sesame Chicken Soup has been a staple in Chinese cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Sichuan province of China, where it was traditionally made with local ingredients such as sesame oil, ginger, and chicken. Over time, the recipe has evolved and become a favorite in many households around the world.

Ingredients

1 whole chicken
6 slices of ginger root
2 cups of cooking wine or sherry
5 cups of water
4 tbsp of sesame oil
2 tbsp of sugar
1 tbsp of salt

How to prepare

Remove any fat from the cavity of the chicken and cut the chicken into bite-size pieces. Heat the wok and then add sesame oil. Stir-fry the ginger root until fragrant. Add the pieces of chicken and stir-fry for 1 minute. Add the cooking wine and bring to a boil. Add 5 cups of water, 2 tbsp of sugar, and 1 tbsp of salt. Boil again, then turn the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes. Transfer to a serving bowl and serve.
In my culture, many families enjoy this soup because it is highly nutritious. Some pregnant women drink this soup to help restore their physical and mental energy. Therefore, this soup is very popular in my country.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or mushrooms.
You can add vegetables such as bok choy, carrots, or spinach to the soup for added nutrition and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of the soup, consider adding some chopped green onions or cilantro as a garnish.

- For a thicker consistency, you can add a cornstarch slurry to the soup and simmer until it thickens.

- If you prefer a spicier version, you can add some chili oil or chili flakes to the soup.

Serving Suggestions

Sesame Chicken Soup can be served as a main dish with steamed rice or noodles on the side. It can also be enjoyed as a starter or appetizer before a larger meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Sesame Chicken Soup is to simmer the ingredients slowly to allow the flavors to meld together. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have cooking sherry on hand, you can substitute it with dry white wine or chicken broth. You can also use vegetable oil instead of sesame oil if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

Sesame Chicken Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Sesame Chicken Soup with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil for an elegant presentation. Serve in individual bowls with chopsticks for an authentic touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Sesame Chicken Soup pairs well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a side of dumplings. For a complete meal, serve with a refreshing cucumber salad or a light fruit dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Sesame Chicken Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Sesame Chicken Soup contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Sesame Chicken Soup contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Sesame Chicken Soup contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Sesame Chicken Soup contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Sesame Chicken Soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

Sesame Chicken Soup contains chicken and sesame oil, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Sesame Chicken Soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is high in proteins and healthy fats. It is a great option for those looking for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Summary

Sesame Chicken Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this traditional Chinese recipe with your family and friends for a delicious and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first saw this recipe for Sesame Chicken Soup. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, known for her delicious and hearty soups that always seemed to warm the soul.

One day, as I was helping her prepare dinner, I noticed a tattered old cookbook sitting on the counter. Curious, I picked it up and began flipping through the pages. That's when I stumbled upon the recipe that would soon become one of my all-time favorites.

The ingredients were simple - chicken, broth, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a few other key components that promised to create a rich and flavorful soup. But what really caught my eye was the method for adding the sesame seeds right at the end, giving the soup a satisfying crunch with every spoonful.

My grandmother noticed my interest and smiled knowingly. "Ah, that recipe," she said, her eyes twinkling with memories of the past. "I learned how to make Sesame Chicken Soup from a dear friend of mine many years ago. It quickly became a family favorite, and now it's your turn to learn the secret."

She patiently guided me through each step, showing me how to properly season the chicken, simmer the broth to perfection, and carefully toast the sesame seeds until they were just the right shade of golden brown. As I followed her instructions, I could feel the love and care that went into each and every ingredient.

After a few hours of simmering on the stove, the soup was finally ready. I ladled out a steaming bowlful, sprinkled with a generous helping of toasted sesame seeds. The aroma that wafted up was intoxicating - a heady mix of savory chicken, fragrant sesame, and comforting warmth.

I took a hesitant sip, not sure what to expect. But as soon as the rich broth hit my tongue, I knew I had discovered something truly special. The flavors danced on my palate, each spoonful a symphony of savory and nutty notes that left me craving more.

From that day on, Sesame Chicken Soup became a staple in our household. Whenever the weather turned cold or someone was feeling under the weather, I would whip up a batch of this comforting soup to soothe the soul.

Over the years, I've made a few tweaks here and there, adding my own personal touch to the recipe. Sometimes I'll throw in a handful of fresh vegetables or a dash of ginger for an extra kick. But no matter how I choose to customize it, the essence of the soup always remains the same - a warm and nourishing bowl of goodness that brings joy to all who taste it.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that fateful day when I first learned to make Sesame Chicken Soup, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary knowledge passed down through the generations. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my loved ones, to show them how much I care through the simple act of preparing a meal.

And so, as I continue to cook and share my recipes with others, I hope that they too will find joy and comfort in the dishes that have brought my family together for so many years. For food is not just sustenance - it is a celebration of life, love, and the bonds that tie us all together.