Stewed black bone chicken, also known as Chinese black chicken soup, is a traditional Chinese dish made with a specific breed of chicken known as Silkie chicken. The chicken has black skin and bones, which gives the soup a unique appearance.
Some of the health benefits of stewed black bone chicken soup include:
- 1. Rich in nutrients: Black chicken is packed with essential nutrients such as protein, iron, and B vitamins.
- 2. Boosts immune system: The soup contains various herbs and spices that have immune-boosting properties, such as ginger and garlic.
- 3. Promotes blood circulation: Black chicken is believed to have warming properties, which can help improve blood circulation and alleviate cold symptoms.
- 4. Supports skin health: The soup is rich in collagen, which can help improve skin elasticity and promote a youthful appearance.
To make stewed black bone chicken soup, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 whole black silkie chicken (about 2 lbs)
– 10 g dried Polygonatum odoratum (玉竹 – yù zhú)
– 10 g dried Astragalus propinquus (黄芪 – huángqí)
– 15 g dried goji berries (枸杞 – gǒuqǐ)
– 20 g dried Codonopsis pilosula (党参 – dǎngshēn)
– 40 g dried Chinese yam (淮山 – huáishān)
– 3 large slices ginger
– 13 cups water
– salt (to taste)
You can find all of these ingredients in the dried goods section of a well-stocked Chinese grocery store. If you’re unsure if you have the correct item, compare the label with the Chinese characters provided above!
Instructions:
- Rinse all the dried herbs and goji berries under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- In a large pot, add the water and bring it to a boil.
- Add the dried Chinese yam, Codonopsis pilosula, goji berries, Astragalus propinquus, Polygonatum odoratum, and ginger slices to the boiling water.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the herbs simmer for about 30 minutes to release their flavors and nutrients.
- While the herbs are simmering, prepare the black silkie chicken. Remove any excess fat or feathers and rinse it under cold water.
- Add the whole black silkie chicken to the pot with the herbs and water.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a boil.
- Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface of the soup during cooking.
- Season the soup with salt to taste.
- Serve the Chinese black chicken soup hot and enjoy its health benefits.
You can also add other ingredients like mushrooms, carrots, or Chinese herbs of your choice to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the soup.