Filipino Ginger Chicken Soup, also known as Tinola, is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s easy to make. To prepare this delicious soup, start by simmering chicken with fresh ginger, garlic, onions, and a splash of fish sauce. The result is a soothing broth that’s perfect for any occasion, especially on cool days or when you’re feeling under the weather. With tender chicken, aromatic vegetables like papaya or chayote, and a hint of ginger, Filipino Ginger Chicken Soup is both nourishing and satisfying. It’s a perfect meal to enjoy with a bowl of steamed rice on the side.
A Taste of Tradition
The story of Filipino Ginger Chicken Soup dates back generations. In many Filipino homes, this dish is cooked by the matriarch of the family, passed down through the years with love and care. Filipino Ginger Chicken Soup is a family favorite, known for its healing properties, especially the ginger, which is said to help with digestion and keep colds away. It’s also packed with vegetables like papaya or chayote, adding a fresh, earthy flavor that complements the savory chicken broth. Every bite brings a little taste of home, no matter where you are.
Comfort in Every Spoonful
Filipino Ginger Chicken Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The process of making it is a tradition that brings the whole family together, whether you’re in the kitchen or at the dining table. As the chicken simmers with ginger, garlic, onions, and fish sauce, the entire house fills with an inviting, mouthwatering scent. Filipino Ginger Chicken Soup warms you from the inside out, making it the perfect dish to share with loved ones during special gatherings or cozy dinners.
Easy to Make, Delightful to Eat
Making Filipino Ginger Chicken Soup is easy, with just a few simple ingredients. Start by simmering chicken pieces with ginger, garlic, onions, and fish sauce, then add your choice of vegetables like chayote or papaya. Let the soup cook until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Filipino Ginger Chicken Soup
- Marinate the Chicken: For added depth of flavor, marinate the chicken pieces in fish sauce and minced garlic for 30 minutes before cooking. This will infuse the chicken with more savory notes.
- Customize Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier soup, feel free to add sliced green chilies or a dash of hot sauce to the broth. Adjust the spice according to your taste!
- Check for Tenderness: Green papaya takes time to soften, so make sure it’s cooked through and tender before serving. It should have a slight sweetness once fully cooked, which balances the savory broth.
- Use Fresh Ingredients for Maximum Flavor: Fresh ginger, garlic, and onion will give the soup a fragrant aroma and better taste. Fresh herbs like malunggay (moringa) and chili leaves will elevate the dish, but spinach or kale can be used as substitutes.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the broth before serving. If it’s not salty enough, add more fish sauce or soy sauce. For extra richness, you can add a spoonful of chicken bouillon or chicken broth cubes.
- Leftover Storage: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. It can also be frozen for up to a month, so it’s perfect for meal prepping.
- Serving Ideas: Serve with steamed jasmine rice to soak up the delicious broth or with crusty bread for a heartier meal. You can even garnish with fresh chili peppers for an extra punch.
Filipino Ginger Chicken Soup
4
servings10
minutes1
hour1000
kcal1
hour10
minutesExperience the heartwarming flavors of authentic Filipino cuisine with our Ginger Chicken Soup! This hearty and nourishing dish, inspired by renowned chefs, combines tender chicken, vibrant green papaya, and aromatic spices simmered to perfection. Perfect for chilly days, it promises a comforting meal that warms both body and soul. Ready in just over an hour, it’s an ideal addition to your culinary repertoire. Dive into the delightful blend of savory goodness and health benefits today!
Ingredients
- Proteins
2 pounds chicken divided into serving pieces
- Vegetables
1 large green papaya cut into wedges
3/4 cup malunggay (Moringa) leaves
3/4 cup chili leaves
- Aromatics
4 cloves garlic crushed and chopped
1 medium onion diced
2 thumbs fresh ginger julienned
- Liquids
1 quart rice water from washing rice
1 quart water
- Seasonings
1.5 Maggi Magic Chicken Cubes
1.5 tablespoons fish sauce
Ground black pepper to taste (optional)
- Oils
2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Alternative Ingredients:
Chicken: Substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option.
Fish Sauce: Use soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
Maggi Magic Chicken Cubes: Replace with vegetable or chicken broth for a preservative-free option.
Malunggay Leaves: Spinach or kale can be used if malunggay is unavailable.
Chili Leaves: Substitute with spinach or any leafy greens if chili leaves are not available.
Green Papaya: Substitute with kabocha squash or zucchini.
Rice Wash: Use plain water or chicken broth instead.
Directions
- Sautéing Aromatics – Heat the 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large casserole dish over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic, diced onion, and julienned ginger. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent and the mixture is fragrant.
- Browning the Chicken – Incorporate the chicken pieces into the pot, stirring well to combine with the aromatics. Continue to sauté for an additional 2 minutes or until the chicken begins to take on a light brown hue.
- Seasoning and Adding Liquids – Pour in the 1.5 tablespoons of fish sauce, mixing thoroughly to coat the chicken. Introduce the rice wash and an additional quart of water to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow it to cook for approximately 10 minutes.
- Simmering with Vegetables – Add the green papaya wedges to the simmering broth. Let the soup cook for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the papaya is tender and the flavors meld together.
- Final Seasoning and Greens – Stir in the Maggi Magic Chicken Cubes, ensuring they dissolve fully into the broth. Season with ground black pepper to taste if desired. Turn off the heat and add the chili leaves and malunggay leaves to the pot. Cover and let the residual heat wilt the greens for about 2 minutes.
- Serving the Soup – Transfer the hot and comforting soup into serving bowls. Serve alongside steamed rice and enjoy the wholesome flavors!
Equipment
- casserole dish
Notes
- To enhance the depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken pieces in a little fish sauce and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking. For a spicier kick, add sliced green chilies or a dash of hot sauce to the broth. Serve this soup with steamed jasmine rice or crusty bread to soak up the savory broth. Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to three days and can be frozen for longer preservation. For added nutrition, feel free to incorporate other vegetables like carrots or spinach. Remember to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences for the perfect comforting bowl every time.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 1000kcal
- Fat: 63g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 255mg
- Sodium: 977mg
- Potassium: 1275mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 60g
- Vitamin A: 2625IU
- Vitamin C: 298mg
- Calcium: 438mg
- Iron: 5mg
FAQ- Filipino Ginger Chicken Soup
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but bone-in pieces will add more flavor to the broth. If using boneless, cook it for a shorter time to avoid overcooking.
What if I can’t find green papaya?
You can substitute green papaya with kabocha squash or zucchini, but green papaya has a unique texture and slight sweetness that really complements the broth.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To amp up the heat, you can add sliced green chilies, chili flakes, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the broth. Adjust the spice level to your liking.
What is rice wash, and can I substitute it?
Rice wash is the water used to rinse rice before cooking, and it’s commonly used in Filipino soups for a milder, slightly starchy broth. You can substitute it with plain water or chicken broth for a richer flavor.
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth or soy sauce instead of fish sauce to create a delicious vegetarian or vegan version.
