Easy Cambodian Chicken Lemon Soup
Dive into Flavor: Easy Cambodian Chicken Lemon Soup
Looking for a vibrant, aromatic, and surprisingly easy soup to brighten up your week? Look no further than this Easy Cambodian Chicken Lemon Soup! This recipe captures the essence of Cambodian cuisine – a beautiful balance of sour, salty, and subtly spicy flavors. It’s a comforting and healthy dish that’s perfect for a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even to soothe a cold.
This soup, also known as Samlar Machou Kreung (though this recipe is a simplified version for home cooks!), traditionally uses kreung, a fragrant spice paste. We’ve streamlined the process by using fresh ingredients to build those same incredible flavors. The lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves create a uniquely fragrant broth that’s truly unforgettable.
What makes this soup special?
- Bright & Refreshing: The lemon juice and aromatic herbs create a wonderfully bright and refreshing flavor profile.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili and fish sauce to your liking.
- Healthy & Nourishing: Packed with fresh ingredients and lean protein, this soup is good for you too!
- Quick & Simple: Ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Tips for the Best Soup:
- Bruising the Aromatics: Bruising the lemongrass and galangal helps release their essential oils, maximizing flavor.
- Fresh Herbs are Key: Don’t skimp on the fresh herbs! They add a vital layer of aroma and flavor.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning to your preference. Cambodian cuisine is all about balance.
- Chicken Choice: You can use any part of the chicken you like – bone-in thighs will give you the most flavor, but boneless, skinless breasts work well for a quicker option.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Where can I find kaffir lime leaves and galangal?
A: These ingredients can often be found at Asian supermarkets. If you can’t find them, you might be able to find dried kaffir lime leaves online, but fresh is always best. Galangal can sometimes be substituted with ginger, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with tofu or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Be sure to check your fish sauce for any animal products if you are vegan.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: The soup is best served fresh, but you can prepare the broth ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the herbs and lime juice just before serving.
Q: What does MSG do in this recipe?
A: MSG (monosodium glutamate) is a flavor enhancer that adds umami to the soup. It’s optional, but it can enhance the overall flavor. If you prefer not to use it, you can omit it.
Get ready to experience a taste of Cambodia with this easy and delicious soup! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave you wanting more.
Easy Cambodian Chicken Lemon Soup
Ingredients
- 5-6 cups water Adjust to chicken amount
- 1 stalk lemongrass Cut in half and bruised
- 3-4 leaves kaffir lime leaves Torn
- 3 cloves garlic Smashed and minced
- 1 piece galangal Bruised
- 1 package wonton soup mix Optional
- to taste Fish sauce, salt, and MSG
- to garnish Saw tooth coriander
- to garnish Cilantro
- to garnish Green onion
- to garnish Lime juice
- to garnish Cucumber Thinly sliced, optional
- to taste Minced Chilies With fish sauce
Instructions
- In a pot add lemongrass, kaffir lime, garlic, and galangal water bring it to a boil for 2 minutes
- Then add chicken part to it cook until the chicken is done depending on what part of chicken you use
- Now add fish sauce, wonton soup, salt or MSG to the soup according to your taste.
- Turn the heat off when chicken is cooked
- When ready to serve add herbs and lime juice, sliced cucumber and serve hot with rice.
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