How to Make Chinese Soup with Sweet Corn and Chicken
Chinese soup with sweet corn and chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that can be enjoyed any time of the year. This simple recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients. Here’s how to create this delicious soup at home.
Ingredients Needed
- 2 cups of sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Broth
In a large pot, bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a gentle simmer over medium heat. You can use store-bought broth or homemade for a richer flavor.
2. Add Sweet Corn
Once the broth is simmering, add the 2 cups of sweet corn. If you are using fresh corn, make sure to cut it off the cob before adding it to the pot. Allow the corn to cook for about 5 minutes, allowing its sweetness to infuse the broth.
3. Incorporate Cooked Chicken
Add the 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken to the pot. If you need to cook the chicken beforehand, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Simply boil, roast, or sauté the chicken until fully cooked, then shred it using two forks.
4. Season the Soup
Stir in the 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the seasoning based on your preference for saltiness.
5. Thicken the Soup
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Slowly add this mixture to the soup while stirring continuously. This will help to thicken the broth slightly.
6. Add the Egg
To make the soup extra creamy, slowly pour the beaten egg into the pot while stirring the soup in a circular motion. The heat from the soup will cook the egg, creating beautiful ribbons of egg throughout the broth.
7. Finish with Green Onions
Add the chopped green onions for a fresh taste and sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro on top if you desire. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional two minutes.
8. Serve Hot
Serve the sweet corn and chicken soup hot. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice or a side of spring rolls for a complete meal. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the delightful textures in every bowl!
Tips for Customization
You can easily customize this Chinese soup by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli for added nutrition. For a spicy kick, consider adding a dash of chili oil or some red pepper flakes.
Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy soup to warm you up, this Chinese soup with sweet corn and chicken is a fantastic choice. It is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser!