stew black chicken with American ginseng

How to Cook American Ginseng and Black Chicken Soup

American Ginseng and Black Chicken Soup is a nourishing Chinese delicacy, prized for its health benefits and delicate flavor. Here’s a simple guide to preparing it:

Ingredients: 1 whole black chicken (about 1 kg), 30g American ginseng, 10 red dates, 5 dried goji berries, 3 slices of ginger, 1 scallion, and salt to taste.

Steps:

1. Prepare the chicken: Clean the black chicken thoroughly. Remove excess fat and truss it with kitchen twine if needed. Blanch the chicken in boiling water for 3 minutes, then rinse to remove impurities.

2. Soak the ginseng: Rinse American ginseng and soak it in warm water for 15 minutes to soften.

3. Combine ingredients: Place the blanched chicken, soaked ginseng, red dates, goji berries, ginger, and scallion in a clay pot or deep casserole. Add 2 liters of water or enough to cover the chicken.

4. Simmer: Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low heat. Cover and simmer for 1.5–2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the soup is fragrant.

5. Season: Add salt to taste during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Discard the scallion and ginger before serving.

Serving: Enjoy the soup hot, with the chicken and ginseng as a main dish. It’s perfect for restoring energy, especially in colder months. Adjust ingredient quantities based on personal preference for a milder or richer flavor. This wholesome soup blends earthy ginseng with tender chicken, creating a comforting and nutritious meal.