Dive into a bowl of warmth and flavor with our delightful Lemongrass Noodle Soup with Cucumber Chicken! This Vietnamese-inspired dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a quick and easy recipe that you can whip up in just 45 minutes. Imagine the aromatic essence of lemongrass mingling with tender chicken and fresh cucumber, creating a symphony of tastes that will transport you straight to the bustling streets of Vietnam. Whether you're looking for a comforting meal on a chilly evening or a refreshing dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Ready to embark on a delicious journey? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 stalk lemongrass, chopped
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 200g rice noodles
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the lemongrass by trimming the tough outer layers and finely chopping the tender white bottom portion of the stalk.
- In a medium saucepan, combine chicken broth and chopped lemongrass. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing the lemongrass to infuse its aromatic flavor into the broth for about 10 minutes.
- While the broth is simmering, cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent further cooking, then set aside.
- If not already prepared, cook the chicken breast by poaching or grilling, then shred into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
- Strain the lemongrass from the broth using a fine-mesh strainer, returning the infused broth to the pan.
- Season the broth with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as needed.
- Thinly slice the cucumber into half-moons or matchstick-style cuts.
- Divide the cooked rice noodles among four serving bowls.
- Ladle the hot lemongrass-infused broth over the noodles.
- Top each bowl with shredded chicken, cucumber slices, and chopped green onions.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves just before serving.
- Serve immediately while the broth is hot, allowing diners to mix the ingredients and enjoy the vibrant flavors.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Lemongrass: For the best flavor, select fresh lemongrass with a vibrant green color and firm stalks. Avoid any that appear wilted or dried out.
- Infusion is Key: Allow the lemongrass to simmer in the broth long enough to release its aromatic oils, enhancing the overall flavor of your soup. Aim for at least 10 minutes of simmering.
- Customize Your Noodles: While rice noodles are traditional, feel free to experiment with other types of noodles, like udon or soba, for a different texture.
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can shred the chicken and chop the vegetables in advance. This way, you can have everything ready to go when you're ready to cook.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skimp on the fresh cilantro and green onions! They add a burst of freshness that elevates the dish.
- Serve Hot: This soup is best enjoyed hot. Ladle the broth over the noodles and toppings just before serving to keep everything warm and inviting.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or even a splash of lime juice for an extra zing!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 75mg
