If you’re searching for a soul-soothing dish that bursts with unique flavors and nourishing ingredients, look no further than this Black Sesame Chicken Soup Recipe. This vibrant, aromatic soup beautifully balances the earthiness of toasted black sesame seeds with the fresh zing of galangal, lemongrass, and lime. It’s a comforting yet sophisticated dish that transforms humble chicken soup into something unforgettable. Perfect for those cozy dinners or when you need a little culinary inspiration that feels both exotic and wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Black Sesame Chicken Soup Recipe uses a handful of simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients that come together to create incredible depth of flavor. Each element not only adds taste but also contributes to the lovely texture and intriguing color that make this soup so memorable.
- Black sesame seeds: Toasted to unlock a rich, nutty aroma that’s key to this recipe’s distinctive character.
- Fresh galangal (or root ginger): Adds a bright, peppery warmth that lifts the broth beautifully.
- Garlic cloves: Lightly smashed to release robust, savory undertones without overpowering.
- Lemongrass stalk: Infuses the soup with a fresh citrusy fragrance that pairs perfectly with the sesame.
- Shallots: Provide a subtle sweetness and depth to the broth.
- Skinless chicken thigh fillets: Tender and flavorful, ideal for soaking up all the aromatic spices.
- Fish sauce: Brings umami richness and a touch of saltiness that enhances every bite.
- Lime juice: Offers zesty brightness to balance the earthy sesame and savory chicken perfectly.
- Coriander leaves: Fresh garnish that adds color and an herbal lift.
- Sliced spring onions: For a crisp, mild onion crunch topping.
- Lime slices or wedges: To squeeze more fresh citrus over the soup just before enjoying.
How to Make Black Sesame Chicken Soup Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Black Sesame Seeds
Start by dry toasting the black sesame seeds in a frying pan over medium heat until they just begin to crackle and release their nutty aroma, about one minute. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Once toasted, grind the seeds finely in a pestle and mortar. This step is crucial as it deepens their flavor and ensures they dissolve beautifully into the broth.
Step 2: Prepare the Aromatic Broth
Peel and thinly slice the galangal and shallots. Gently bash the garlic cloves and the lemongrass stalk to unlock their essential oils without pulverizing them. Add all these aromatics to a pot with 900ml of cold water and a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes. Turn off the heat and allow the broth to infuse for at least 30 minutes, giving it time to soak up all those layers of flavor.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Strain the infused broth through a fine sieve to remove the solids, pressing down gently to extract every bit of essence. Return the clear broth to the pot and bring it back to a rolling boil. Add the trimmed chicken thigh fillets and simmer gently for 8 to 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 4: Incorporate the Black Sesame
While the chicken is cooking, gradually sprinkle in the ground toasted black sesame seeds, stirring continuously to evenly distribute their rich flavor and help thicken the broth slightly. This step is what truly sets apart this Black Sesame Chicken Soup Recipe, transforming it into a silky, nutty delight.
Step 5: Season and Finish
Finalize the soup by stirring in the fish sauce to add savory depth and the lime juice for a lovely tangy contrast. Taste as you go to get the perfect balance between salty, tangy, and earthy notes that make this soup so irresistible.
Step 6: Serve with Fresh Garnishes
Ladle the piping hot soup into bowls, then sprinkle with fresh coriander leaves, sliced spring onions, and lime wedges for squeezing. These garnishes add an essential brightness and vibrant color, rounding out your dining experience.
How to Serve Black Sesame Chicken Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh coriander leaves, crisp spring onions, and a wedge of lime are more than just pretty on top. They add layers of freshness, a crunch of texture, and an extra burst of citrusy zing that keeps every spoonful exciting and light.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with fragrant jasmine rice or steamed sticky rice to soak up the broth. A crisp cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the warmth of the soup perfectly, balancing richness with cool crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Black Sesame Chicken Soup Recipe in small cups as an appetizer at a dinner party. You can also drizzle a touch of toasted black sesame oil on top just before serving to amp up that nutty aroma and create a luxurious finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The flavors might even deepen after a day, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze the soup in portions for up to 2 months. To preserve texture, freeze the chicken and broth together but keep fresh garnishes separate to add when you reheat.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent the sesame from settling. Avoid microwaving unless you’re careful, as it can change the soup’s texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thigh fillets?
Yes, chicken breast works fine but thighs are preferred for their juiciness and richer flavor, which better complements the bold black sesame.
Is galangal interchangeable with ginger?
In a pinch, fresh root ginger can substitute for galangal, though the flavor will be less peppery and more pungent. Both add lovely warmth to the broth.
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
To veganize, replace chicken with tofu or mushrooms and use soy sauce instead of fish sauce. The toasted black sesame still provides that wonderful depth.
What does black sesame add to the soup?
Black sesame seeds bring a deep, nutty flavor and a slight creaminess when ground, making the broth feel richer and more complex.
How do I avoid the soup becoming too salty?
Start adding the fish sauce and lime juice gradually and taste along the way. It’s easier to add more than to fix an overly salty broth.
Final Thoughts
This Black Sesame Chicken Soup Recipe is truly one of those dishes that surprises and delights with every spoonful. It’s comfort food elevated by extraordinary ingredients, perfect for warming up your evenings and impressing anyone lucky enough to share it. I hope you’ll give it a try and make it a new favorite in your kitchen!
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Black Sesame Chicken Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Description
Black Sesame Chicken Soup is a fragrant and flavorful Asian-inspired dish that combines the nutty aroma of toasted black sesame seeds with the vibrant notes of galangal, lemongrass, and lime. Tender chicken thighs are simmered in an infused broth, creating a comforting soup perfect for any season. This recipe offers a unique twist on classic chicken soup with distinctive Southeast Asian flavors and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tbsp black sesame seeds
- 100g fresh galangal (or root ginger), peeled and sliced
- 1 head of garlic, cloves peeled and lightly bashed
- 1 stalk lemongrass, lightly bashed
- 100g shallots, peeled and halved
- 900ml cold water
- Pinch of salt
Main Ingredients
- 500g skinless chicken thigh fillets, trimmed
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 3 tbsp lime juice
Garnish
- Coriander leaves
- Sliced spring onions
- Lime slices or wedges
Instructions
- Toast sesame seeds: Dry toast the black sesame seeds in a frying pan over medium heat for about 1 minute until they start to crackle and release their aroma. Transfer to a mortar and pestle and grind the seeds finely to release their flavor.
- Make broth: Prepare the aromatics by peeling and slicing galangal (or ginger), lightly bashing garlic cloves and lemongrass, and halving the shallots. Place these ingredients in a pan with 900ml cold water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer gently for 10 minutes. After simmering, turn off the heat and allow the broth to infuse for at least 30 minutes to deepen the flavors.
- Cook chicken: Strain the broth through a fine sieve into another pan, pressing on the aromatics to extract maximum flavor. Bring the strained broth back to a rolling boil. Add the trimmed chicken thigh fillets and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook the chicken for 8-10 minutes or until fully cooked and tender.
- Add sesame seeds: Gradually sprinkle the roasted, ground black sesame seeds into the hot broth, stirring gently to distribute the nutty flavor evenly throughout the soup.
- Season: Stir in the fish sauce and lime juice carefully, adjusting the amounts to suit your taste preference for saltiness and acidity. This balancing act enhances the soup’s savory and tangy profile.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and garnish generously with fresh coriander leaves, sliced spring onions, and lime slices or wedges for added freshness and a burst of color.
Notes
- For a spicier variation, add sliced fresh chili or a dash of chili oil before serving.
- Galangal can be substituted with fresh root ginger but will alter the flavor slightly.
- Use skinless chicken thighs for tender, juicy meat without excess fat.
- Allowing the broth to infuse off heat enhances the aromatic depth of the soup.
- Adjust lime juice and fish sauce to make the soup more or less tangy and salty based on preference.
- This soup can be reheated gently on the stovetop but is best enjoyed fresh.
