Authentic Sesame Oil Chicken: A Classic Taiwanese Dish
Authentic Sesame Oil Chicken Soup (麻油雞湯) is the perfect recipe for cozying up and savoring the authentic flavors of Taiwanese home cooking. Whether enjoyed on a chilly day or for postpartum recovery, this hearty soup is cherished for its nourishing benefits to both body and soul. A timeless classic, it boasts a rich, nutty aroma, a hint of spice from ginger, and tender, juicy chicken.
History of Sesame Oil Chicken Soup (麻油雞湯)
The renowned Taiwanese dish, Sesame Oil Chicken Soup (麻油雞湯), has its roots in traditional Chinese medicine. Warming and rejuvenating, this soup is made with sesame oil, ginger, and rice wine. It is a go-to recipe during the winter months and for postpartum recovery, thanks to its ingredients, which are known to boost circulation and ward off cold.
The soup was originally part of postpartum care (“zuò yuè zi”). It helped new mothers regain strength and improve their well-being. Over time, it evolved into a hearty dish enjoyed by everyone, particularly on cold or rainy days.
Modern variations may include goji berries, mushrooms, or vegetables. However, the dish’s key components remain the same, preserving its traditional flavor and cultural significance. Simple yet nourishing, this soup is a true representation of Taiwanese home cooking.
Pairing Suggestions for Sesame Oil Chicken Soup
- Scallion Pancakes: Crispy and flaky, great for dipping in the broth.
- Herbal or Jasmine Tea: Completes the meal with a soothing touch.
- Steamed White Rice: Perfectly soaks up the flavorful broth.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: Refreshing crunch with greens like bok choy or spinach.
- Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles balance the soup’s richness.
- Braised Soy Sauce Eggs: A classic, savory side dish.
Conclusion
Sesame Oil Chicken Soup is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting and nourishing meal that embodies the authentic flavors of Taiwanese home cooking. Whether enjoyed on a cold day or as part of postpartum care, its simple yet flavorful ingredients make it a timeless classic that continues to warm both body and soul.
Authentic Sesame Oil Chicken Soup (麻油雞湯) | Easy Taiwanese Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large pot or Dutch oven
Ingredients
- 3 lbs chicken thighs and drumsticks (bone-in and skin-on, sliced into 2-3 sections per piece)
- 2 tablespoons goji berries
- 1 cup thinly-sliced ginger (washed, skin on)
- 1 bottle Taiwanese rice wine (750 ml)
- 2 cups water (500 ml, or just enough to cover chicken in pot)
- 4 tablespoons sesame oil (use 1 teaspoon for sauteing ginger and remainder in soup)
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients: Before starting, prepare all ingredients to make the cooking process smoother. This includes cutting the chicken, slicing the ginger, and measuring the sesame oil, rice wine, and water.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear each side for 3-5 minutes until lightly browned. Searing locks in the juices and enhances the flavor of the broth. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even browning.
- Sauté the Ginger: In the same pot, add the ginger slices. Lower the heat to maintain a gentle sauté and cook for 5-7 minutes until the ginger becomes fragrant and slightly golden. During the last 3 minutes of sautéing, add 1 teaspoon of sesame oil.Important: Keep the heat low to prevent the sesame oil from turning bitter.Signs of readiness: Look for curling edges on the ginger slices and a strong, spicy aroma filling the kitchen.
- Add Chicken and Liquids: Return the browned chicken to the pot. Pour in the water first, followed by the rice wine. Stir gently to combine. Add the remaining sesame oil and bring the soup to a boil over medium heat.Tip: Adding the water before the rice wine ensures even distribution of the liquids.
- Simmer to Perfection: Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes. During this time, the chicken will become tender, and the flavors of the sesame oil, ginger, and rice wine will meld beautifully.Tip: Do not cover the pot while simmering to allow the alcohol to evaporate.
- Final Touches: Taste the soup and add salt as needed. If you’re using goji berries or mushrooms, add them during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. For greens, add them just before serving to keep them vibrant and fresh.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite sides, such as stir-fried vegetables or pickled greens, for a complete and comforting meal.
Video
Notes
- Prepare Ingredients in Advance:
Gather and prepare all ingredients, such as slicing ginger and cutting chicken, before cooking to streamline the process. - Sear the Chicken Properly:
Use medium heat and avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even browning and enhance the flavor of the soup. - Sauté Ginger Carefully:
Use low heat to prevent the sesame oil from turning bitter. Look for curling edges and a strong aroma as signs the ginger is ready. - Add Liquids in the Right Order:
Pour water first, then rice wine, to ensure even mixing and balance of flavors. - Simmer Uncovered:
Keep the pot uncovered during simmering to allow the alcohol in the rice wine to evaporate. - Add Optional Ingredients at the Right Time:
Goji berries and mushrooms should be added in the last 2-3 minutes, while greens should go in just before serving to maintain their texture and color.