Chicken Thukpa: A Comforting Nepalese Noodle Soup Recipe
Indulge in the rich flavors and warm comfort of Chicken Thukpa, a traditional Nepalese noodle soup that brings a delightful blend of spices, vegetables, and tender chicken. This quick and satisfying dish is perfect for any time of year and can be prepared in just under an hour, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a taste of Nepal right in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken broth | 1 quart |
| Carrot | 6 (sliced) |
| Red bell pepper | ½ (sliced) |
| Celery | ½ (sliced) |
| Spinach | ½ cup (fresh) |
| Fresh cilantro | ½ cup (chopped) |
| Garlic | 1 clove (minced) |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece (grated) |
| Red chili peppers | 1 (sliced) |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup (halved) |
| Shallots | 1 (chopped) |
| Cumin seeds | 2 teaspoons |
| Turmeric | ½ teaspoon |
| Whole peppercorn | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida powder | 1/16 teaspoon |
| Lime juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Cooking oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Rice noodles | 1 package (cooked) |
| Grilled chicken slices | For topping |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 851.3 kcal |
| Total Fat | 11.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 64.3 mg |
| Sodium | 1869.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 140.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.2 g |
| Sugars | 6.2 g |
| Protein | 40.9 g |
Cooking Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
Servings
| Servings | Yield |
|---|---|
| 3 servings | 3 bowls |
Instructions
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Prepare the Noodles: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rice noodles and cook them until they are slightly undercooked according to package instructions. Once done, drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to halt the cooking process. Reserve them in a large bowl while you prepare the soup.
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Make the Soup Paste: In a blender, combine the minced garlic, grated ginger, sliced red chili pepper, and shallots along with the cumin seeds, turmeric, peppercorns, and asafoetida powder. Blend these ingredients into a smooth, thick paste, and transfer this mixture to a small bowl. This paste will form the flavor base of your Thukpa.
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Heat the Oil: In a saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the prepared soup paste to the pan. Stir-fry the paste for about 30 seconds, allowing the aromatic flavors to develop and infuse the oil.
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Combine with Broth: Pour the chicken broth into the saucepan with the sautéed paste, stirring to combine everything thoroughly. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer for a few minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
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Add the Vegetables: Introduce all of the prepared vegetables — sliced carrots, red bell pepper, celery, spinach, and halved cherry tomatoes — into the soup mixture. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender yet still vibrant. If you prefer a soupier consistency, feel free to add more chicken broth at this stage.
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Final Adjustments: Before serving, taste the soup again and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of hot chili sauce or some tangy tomato achar, depending on your spice preference.
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Serve: To serve, pour the steaming soup broth into bowls, ensuring an even distribution of the vegetables. Top each bowl with a generous portion of cooked rice noodles and grilled chicken slices. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for an added burst of flavor and freshness. Enjoy your Chicken Thukpa hot, paired with your favorite spicy condiments if desired.
Conclusion
This Chicken Thukpa recipe offers a nourishing and flavorful experience that captures the essence of Nepalese cuisine. With its vibrant ingredients and simple preparation, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire. Whether you’re looking to impress family or simply enjoy a hearty meal, Chicken Thukpa is the perfect choice to warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds. Be sure to share this delightful recipe from lovewithrecipes.com with your friends and family, allowing them to experience the comfort of homemade noodle soup. Happy cooking!
