Nourishing Samgyetang: A Hearty Homemade Chicken Soup Recipe
Samgyetang: Wholesome and Nutritious Korean Ginseng Chicken Soup
When grocery shopping, it’s important to choose items your family will love, but sometimes sales can lead to unexpected purchases! With today’s rising prices, let’s make the most of those sale items to create a delicious and healthy Samgyetang. This recipe will guide you through making a comforting and satisfying Korean ginseng chicken soup right in your own kitchen. Perfect for replenishing energy after a long day or when you need a comforting meal, this soup is sure to please everyone.
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized chicken, about 12호 (approx. 1kg or 2.2 lbs)
- 1/4 onion, roughly chopped
- 1 bunch green onions, cut into large pieces (mostly white parts)
- 4 dried shrimp (or fresh shrimp)
- 2 Korean chili peppers (remove seeds for less heat, if desired)
- 10 whole garlic cloves, peeled
- 1 handful of Hovenia dulcis (Goji berry) twigs, or other medicinal herbs like Astragalus root or Acanthopanax
Seasoning
- Black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Fish sauce (e.g., Kkanari aekjeot), for enhanced umami
- Black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Fish sauce (e.g., Kkanari aekjeot), for enhanced umami
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by thoroughly rinsing the 12호 chicken (approximately 1kg or 2.2 lbs) under cold running water. Ensure you wash the inside cavity well to remove any blood or impurities. Place the clean chicken into your pressure cooker pot.
Step 2
Next, add the aromatics and flavor enhancers. Arrange the roughly chopped 1/4 onion, large pieces of green onion, 4 dried shrimp, 2 Korean chili peppers (seeds removed if you prefer less spice), 10 whole peeled garlic cloves, and the handful of Hovenia dulcis twigs (or your chosen medicinal herbs) on top of and around the chicken. Pour enough water into the pot to fully cover the chicken and ingredients. This usually takes about 6-8 cups of water, depending on your pot size.
Step 3
Secure the lid on the pressure cooker. Select the appropriate cooking setting for ‘Samgyetang’ or ‘Poultry’ on your pressure cooker. If a specific Samgyetang setting isn’t available, choose a high-pressure cook setting for approximately 45-60 minutes. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your appliance.
Step 4
Once the cooking cycle is complete and the pressure has safely released, carefully open the lid. The chicken should be tender and plump, easily falling off the bone. Season the broth with salt, black pepper, and a touch of fish sauce to your preference. Serve hot, perhaps with some kimchi on the side, for a truly comforting and nourishing meal.