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+ servings
Chinese Homemade Chicken Essence Soup
5 from 3 reviews

Chicken Essence Soup (No Water Added)

A deeply nourishing chicken essence soup made with no water added—rich, concentrated, and traditionally enjoyed as a healing remedy for recovery and strength.

Ingredients
 

  • 1 whole chicken , about 3lbs
  • 6 pieces napa cabbage, roughly chopped
  • 1 carrot, sliced or cut into large chunks
  • 1 onion, sliced or quartered, optional
  • 4 cloves garlic, lightly smashed
  • 8-10 slices fresh ginger
  • 2 tablespoon dried goji berries
  • 1-2 cups water or chicken stock, (optional) add this only if you prefer less concentrated liquid
  • ½ tsp salt, add more to taste
  • ½ tsp white pepper, add more to taste

Instructions
 

  • Rinse the whole chicken thoroughly and pat dry. Prep and cut the vegetables.
  • In a large cooking pot or dutch oven, layer the cabbage, carrot, onion, garlic, and ginger. Then place the whole chicken on top, along with more ginger slices and goji berries.
  • Then place the whole chicken on top, along with more ginger slices and goji berries. Do not add any water - this soup relies entirely on the natural juices released from the chicken and vegetables. If you prefer more liquid, feel free to add 1-2 cups of water or chicken stock.
  • Cover the pot tightly with a lid and place it over low to medium-low heat. Let the soup slowly cook for 1½ to 2 hours.
  • Once the soup is done and the broth looks rich and concentrated, turn off the heat and let it sit for another 10 minutes.
  • Taste and add salt and white pepper if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

*NOTE: This recipe yields about 2-4 cups of chicken essence. The amount of essence liquid can vary depending on the size of your chicken, amount of vegetables, and the type of pot you are using. If you prefer more liquid or less concentrated, feel free to add 1-2 cups of water or chicken stock. The chicken soup will be just as tasty and nourishing! 
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