Bangladeshi cuisine is known for its rich, layered flavors that incorporate an array of spices and ingredients. One dish that embodies this warmth and comfort is Bangladeshi hotel-style chicken soup. Perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, this soup is cherished for its unique blend of spices and tender chicken pieces. It’s a hearty, soul-soothing dish that’s perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 500g chicken pieces (bone-in for extra flavor)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced
- 2 green chilies, slit (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tomato, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 4-5 cups water (or as needed)
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended):
Marinate the chicken pieces with a pinch of turmeric, salt, and black pepper for 30 minutes. This helps infuse flavor into the chicken.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add the sliced onions and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they turn golden brown.
3. Add Garlic, Ginger, and Green Chilies:
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pot, followed by the green chilies. Sauté for another 2 minutes until the raw smell fades.
4. Incorporate the Spices:
Sprinkle the turmeric, ground coriander, and black pepper into the pot. Stir well and cook for a minute to toast the spices.
5. Cook the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and stir to coat them with the aromatic mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes until the chicken starts to brown slightly.
6. Add Tomatoes and Water:
Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Pour in the water and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded.
7. Finish with Garam Masala:
Stir in the garam masala and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to enhance the flavors.
8. Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve with lemon wedges on the side to add a zesty twist before eating.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Soup:
- Use bone-in chicken for richer flavor and a more authentic taste.
- Adjust spices based on your heat tolerance; reduce or increase the green chilies to your preference.
- For a thicker soup, you can add a tablespoon of cornflour mixed with water to the broth during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Enjoy this Bangladeshi-inspired chicken soup with a side of warm bread or naan for a complete, comforting meal.