Herbal Chicken Soup

Herbal Chicken Soup

(A nourishing and aromatic soup infused with traditional herbs, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables, perfect for boosting immunity and overall wellness.)

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Ingredients

For the Broth:

• 8 cups chicken broth (or water with chicken bones for homemade broth)
• 1 whole chicken (or 1.5 lbs bone-in chicken thighs/drumsticks)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 1 tsp white pepper
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1-inch ginger, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, smashed

For the Herbal Blend:

• 4 red dates (jujubes)
• 2 tbsp goji berries
• 1 ginseng root (or 1 tsp ginseng powder)
• 3-4 pieces dried astragalus root (optional, for immunity)
• 2 slices dried angelica root (Dang Gui, optional)

For the Vegetables:

• 1 medium carrot, chopped
• 6 shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup bok choy, chopped
• ½ cup lotus root, sliced (optional)
• 2 tbsp green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Blanch the chicken: Place in a pot of boiling water for 5 minutes, then drain and rinse to remove impurities.

2. Simmer the Broth:

• In a large pot, bring chicken broth or water to a boil.
• Add chicken, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and white pepper.
• Reduce heat and let simmer for 45 minutes.

3. Add Herbs & Vegetables:

• Add red dates, goji berries, ginseng, astragalus root, and angelica root to the pot.
• Stir in carrots, shiitake mushrooms, and lotus root.
• Let simmer for another 30 minutes until chicken is tender and vegetables are soft.

4. Season & Final Touches:

• Stir in salt and sesame oil, adjusting to taste.
• Add bok choy and simmer for 5 more minutes.

5. Serve & Garnish:

• Remove chicken, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
• Ladle the soup into bowls.
• Garnish with green onions and cilantro.

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Why This Version Stands Out?

✅ Traditional Chinese herbs provide health benefits and depth of flavor.
✅ Slow-simmered chicken broth is rich, nourishing, and comforting.
✅ Balanced vegetables add texture, vitamins, and heartiness.
✅ Perfect for boosting immunity and warming the body.

Would you like to make it spicier with white pepper or chili oil, or add noodles for extra heartiness? 😊