Dong Quai Chicken Soup is a traditional Chinese dish that has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various health conditions. The soup is made with Dong Quai, also known as Angelica Sinensis, which is a herb that is known for its medicinal properties.
The soup is believed to have numerous health benefits, especially for women’s health, as it is believed overall to help regulate hormones and promote wellness. Dong Quai Chicken Soup is not only nourishing and delicious but also a popular option for those looking for a natural way to improve their health.
Dong Quai Chicken Soup Recipe
Dong Quai Chicken Soup
Equipment
- 1 pot
Ingredients
- Whole chicken cut into parts
- 1 Tbsp dried dong quai root; avoid using this herb if you are pregnant, have diarrhea, or have digestive pain.
- 1 Tbsp dried astragalus (or 6 slices fresh astragalus)
- 1 cup fresh or 2 Tbsp. dried shiitake mushrooms
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Honey, to taste
- Toasted sesame oil, to taste
- Green onion, sliced thin, to taste
Instructions
- Put chicken in a large pot or slow cooker. Cover chicken with water
- Add the dong quai, astragalus, and shiitake mushrooms
- Setting your burner to high, bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce to a slow simmer. Simmer for 4–6 hours
- Add sea salt and pepper. You can also sweeten this soup with a bit of honey, if desired, to balance the taste of the medicinal herbs
Notes
Best instruments
- Pot or electric hot pots : A cooking vessel used to simmer and cook the chicken soup. It holds the ingredients and the broth.
- Knife: Used to chop ingredients like chicken, carrots, potatoes, onions, and various vegetables.
- Cutting Board: Provides a surface for cutting and preparing ingredients using a knife.
- Spoon: Used for stirring and mixing the components in the pot.
- Strainer: A tool used to strain and remove impurities from the broth, such as herb stems or bones.
- Peeler: A tool for removing the skins of vegetables like carrots or potatoes.
- Skimmer: Used to remove foam and debris from the surface of the soup.
- Measuring Cups: Used to accurately measure ingredients like water, spices, or rice.
- Ladle: Used to scoop the chicken soup from the pot into bowls or plates.
- Tongs: Handy for picking up chicken or other ingredients from the pot.
- Spices and Herbs: Ingredients like pepper, chili, ginger, garlic, and parsley are used to season the chicken soup.
- Stockpot: An ideal pot for simmering chicken broth, which serves as the base for the chicken soup.
Nutritional ingredients of Dong Quai Chicken Soup
Dong Quai Chicken Soup is a nutrient-rich dish that contains a variety of ingredients that can provide numerous health benefits. Here are some of the key nutritional ingredients of Dong Quai Chicken Soup:
- Chicken: Chicken is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. It also contains important vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B6, which helps to maintain healthy brain function, and zinc, which is important for immune system function.
- Dong Quai: Dong Quai is a herb that is known for its medicinal properties. It is believed to have a variety of health benefits, including promoting blood circulation, regulating hormones, and reducing inflammation. Dong Quai is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, iron, and magnesium.
- Vegetables: Dong Quai Chicken Soup is typically made with a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and mushrooms, which provide important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These vegetables are also high in fiber, which can help to regulate digestion and promote feelings of fullness.
- Ginger: Ginger is a root that is commonly used in traditional medicine for its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also believed to aid in digestion and boost the immune system.
- Garlic: Garlic is a bulb that is rich in antioxidants and has been shown to have numerous health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and improving heart health.
- Herbs and spices: Dong Quai Chicken Soup may also contain a variety of herbs and spices, such as bay leaves, thyme, and black pepper, which provide additional flavor and health benefits. For example, bay leaves have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, while thyme is high in vitamin C and iron.
Overall, Dong Quai Chicken Soup is a nutrient-rich dish that can provide numerous health benefits. Its combination of chicken, vegetables, herbs, and spices provides a variety of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds that can boost the immune system, promote overall health, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Serving Suggestions Dong Quai Chicken Soup
Here are some serving suggestions for Dong Quai Chicken Soup:
- Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying and nourishing meal.
- Top with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or green onions, for added flavor and nutrition.
- Add additional vegetables, such as bok choy or spinach, for added nutrition and flavor.
- Use as a base for other dishes, such as stir-fries or dumplings.
- Freeze in individual portions for an easy and convenient meal or snack.
- Customize the soup with different seasonings and spices to suit individual tastes and preferences.
- Drink the broth as a natural remedy for menstrual cramps or other hormonal imbalances.
- Enjoy as a warming and comforting meal during cold or flu season.
Dong Quai Chicken Soup is a versatile and nourishing dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Its combination of Dong Quai, chicken, and a variety of other ingredients provides numerous health benefits, making it a popular choice for those looking to boost their immune system, regulate hormones, or simply enjoy a warm and nourishing meal. Another delightful option is the Japanese Chicken Soup, known for its unique blend of flavors and ingredients that offer both comfort and taste. Whether you’re seeking traditional remedies or exploring international culinary delights, these soups have something to offer for everyone’s palate and well-being