Ingredients

5 cups low sodium chicken broth
4 medium garlic cloves , smashed and peeled
2 inches piece fresh ginger , peeled , cut into 1/8-inch rounds and smashed
2 star anise
3 tablespoons asian fish sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 teaspoons granulated sugar
12 ounces boneless skinless chicken thighs ( trimmed of excess fat )
table salt
4 cups napa cabbage , rinsed and sliced thin crosswise
2 scallions , white and green parts , sliced thin on an angle
1/2 cup loose-packed fresh mint leaves , torn in half if large
1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves , loose-packed
2 tablespoons roasted unsalted peanuts , chopped
lime wedge
Asian-style noodle soups are a popular comfort food across East and Southeast Asia, with many regional variations and ingredients. This particular recipe is a quick and easy version that uses boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a boost of protein, along with classic aromatics like garlic, ginger, and star anise. The napa cabbage adds a fresh, crisp crunch, while the mint and cilantro provide a burst of herbaceousness and the chopped peanuts give a satisfying nuttiness. While this recipe may not be as authentic as traditional noodle soups, it's a great option for anyone who wants a quick and flavorful bowl that can warm you up on a chilly day.

Instructions

1.In a large pot, bring the chicken broth, garlic, ginger, star anise, fish sauce, soy sauce, and sugar to a boil.
2.Add the chicken thighs to the pot and simmer until cooked through, about 12-15 minutes.
3.Using a slotted spoon, remove the chicken thighs from the pot and transfer to a cutting board. Once cooled slightly, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
4.Season the broth with salt to taste, and add the sliced napa cabbage. Continue to cook until the cabbage is wilted and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5.Add the sliced scallions to the pot and remove from heat.
6.Divide the sliced chicken and broth equally between four bowls.
7.Top each bowl with fresh mint, cilantro, and chopped peanuts.
8.Serve each bowl with a lime wedge for squeezing over the top.

PROS

This dish is incredibly flavorful and satisfying, with tender chicken and crisp napa cabbage in a savory, aromatic broth.

Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken!
The recipe is also very flexible – you can swap in different proteins, vegetables, and herbs based on what you have on hand.

CONS

While this recipe is fairly simple and quick, it does require a lot of different ingredients and some prep work, such as peeling and smashing ginger and garlic.

Additionally, some of the ingredients, such as fish sauce and star anise, may be unfamiliar or difficult to find at your local grocery store.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This noodle soup is a great source of lean protein from the chicken and amino acids from the fish sauce.
The napa cabbage provides a variety of nutrients, including fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K.
The garlic and ginger are also rich in anti-inflammatory compounds and may help boost immune function.
However, keep in mind that this recipe is fairly high in sodium, so individuals with high blood pressure should be mindful of their intake.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.