Ginseng chicken stew, or Samgyetang, is a beloved Korean comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a nourishing boost. This traditional dish features tender chicken simmered to perfection in a rich broth infused with the earthy sweetness of ginseng, the subtle tartness of jujubes, and the fragrant aroma of garlic and ginger. Beyond its delicious taste, Samgyetang is prized for its purported health benefits, attributed to the ginseng's invigorating properties. It's a meal that warms the body and soul, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
This recipe provides a delicious and accessible way to experience the magic of Ginseng Chicken Stew, whether you're a seasoned cook or a culinary novice. We'll guide you through each step, from selecting the perfect ingredients to achieving that perfectly tender chicken and flavorful broth. Ready to embark on this culinary journey? Let's get started with our step-by-step guide.
Tools Needed
- knife
- scissors
- basin
- pot
- stove
Ingredients
- Chicken: 300g
- Mushroom: a little
- Lotus seeds: 200g
- Red apple: a little
- Shiitake mushrooms: 10g
- Seasoning powder
- MSG
- Ginger
- Onions: 2
- Ginseng (dried): 1 package (approx 40,000 VND)
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Oil: 1 teaspoon
- Fish sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Coriander
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Sauté
- chicken, mushrooms, lotus seeds, red apple, shiitake mushrooms, seasoning powder, MSG, ginger, onions, ginseng.
- Soak shiitake mushrooms in water to expand.
- Clean and cut the ginseng into 3cm pieces. Soak in salted water (½ tsp salt) for 5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
- Heat oil in a pot. Sauté onions and ginger until fragrant.
- Add shiitake mushrooms and stir-fry.
Step 2. Cook the Chicken and Simmer the Broth
- Add chicken and stir-fry with seasoning powder, MSG, and fish sauce until the chicken is firm.
- Add water and simmer.
- Add red apples and continue to simmer.
- Add ginseng and simmer.
Step 3. Add Remaining Ingredients and Finish
- Once boiling, add lotus seeds and cook over medium heat for about 30 minutes.
- Add mushrooms and adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 4. Serve
- Turn off the heat and garnish with coriander.
Read more: Vietnamese Chicken Stew (Ca Ri Ga): A Flavorful Comfort Dish
Tips
- Simmer the red apples for a long time to release their sweetness.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-700
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbs: 60-70g
- Protein: 40-45g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the ginseng?
Yes, you can use American ginseng or even omit it entirely. The flavor will be different, but still delicious. Consider adding a touch of extra ginger for warmth.
2. How can I make this stew thicker?
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can simmer it uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
3. Can I use a different type of apple?
While red apples provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness, you can experiment with other types. A Granny Smith apple would add more tartness, while a Honeycrisp would add more sweetness. Just be mindful that the flavor profile will shift slightly.
This nourishing chicken stew offers a delicious and healthy meal, perfect for any occasion. The unique combination of ginseng and red apple creates a surprisingly delightful flavor profile that will leave you feeling both satisfied and revitalized. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this exceptional recipe!