Abalone and Octopus Ginseng Chicken Soup (Samgyetang) for Revitalization
Beat the summer heat with this potent Abalone Samgyetang, elevated with octopus for a nourishing meal that rivals Hae-shin-tang!
To celebrate the hottest days, here’s a hearty and nutrient-rich recipe that’s both delicious and invigorating. Enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal with your loved ones! ^^*
Ingredients- 2 young chickens (prepared)
- 4 fresh abalones
- 2 octopus (tentacles or small whole)
- 1 Korean medicinal herb packet
- 1 onion (optional, adds depth of flavor)
- 1 stalk green onion (cut into large pieces)
- 10 cloves garlic
- 4 chestnuts
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, before adding the chicken, boil the medicinal herb packet in about 3 liters of water for 20 minutes to create a rich broth. I used a cast-iron pot over medium heat instead of a pressure cooker, allowing the flavors to deepen gradually.
Step 2
While the broth is simmering, wash the chickens thoroughly under running water to remove any impurities. Stuff the chickens’ cavities with the ingredients you’ve prepared (such as the contents of the herb pack, if desired) and then secure the opening with a wooden skewer to keep everything in place.
Step 3
Once ready, carefully place the stuffed chickens into the prepared medicinal herb broth. Add the onion (whole or roughly chopped for more flavor), whole garlic cloves, and shiitake mushrooms if you like. (Onion and mushrooms are optional but enhance the broth’s richness.) Cover the pot and simmer gently for 1 hour until the chicken is tender and cooked through. Ensuring the chicken is fully cooked is key.
Step 4
After an hour, the chicken should be tender when pierced with a fork, and the broth will be rich and flavorful. The chicken meat will be so soft it melts in your mouth.
Step 5
This recipe serves 2. For an even more impressive presentation, divide the chicken and broth into individual pots before serving. Enjoying one pot per person makes for a truly satisfying meal!
Step 6
The crucial final step! To prevent the abalone and octopus from becoming tough, add them to the simmering Samgyetang just before serving and cook for about 5 minutes. The abalone should turn a vibrant color, and the octopus should be just cooked through and slightly curled. This preserves their delightful texture and taste.
Step 7
Look at that steam rising from the Abalone Samgyetang – it’s truly appetizing! The chewy abalone, the tender octopus, and the succulent chicken create a symphony of flavors.
Step 8
Finally, season with salt and pepper to your taste. While the natural flavors are wonderful on their own, a touch of seasoning can elevate the taste even further.
Step 9
This summer, recharge your body and soul with a bowl of this hearty and nourishing Abalone Samgyetang! Wishing everyone a healthy and happy meal. ^^*
