Discover the comforting embrace of "Chicken and Mung Bean Soup with Herbs," a delightful Asian-inspired dish that promises to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds! With its hearty combination of tender chicken and nutritious mung beans, this soup is not only a feast for the senses but also a nutritious powerhouse. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to share with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Ready to dive into a bowl of goodness? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup mung beans
- 1 lb chicken, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the mung beans thoroughly under cold water, removing any debris or damaged beans. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Add diced chicken to the pot and cook until the exterior turns white and begins to brown, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the rinsed mung beans. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer.
- Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the mung beans are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro just before serving.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately, enjoying the warm, herb-infused flavors.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, rinse and soak the mung beans a few hours before cooking. This will help them cook faster and become even more tender.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a dash of sesame oil when seasoning your soup.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or spinach for added nutrition and color. Just chop them into small pieces and add them along with the chicken.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs make a significant difference! If you have access to Thai basil or mint, try adding them along with the cilantro for a fragrant twist.
- Storage: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little extra broth if it thickens too much.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of crusty bread or steamed rice for a complete meal that will satisfy even the heartiest of appetites!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 75mg