Name: Hearty Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup for Ultimate Comfort
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces Chicken Legs (Use fresh legs for the best flavor.); 2 tablespoons Black Sesame Oil (Substitute with light sesame oil for a milder taste.); 1 tablespoon Ginger (Fresh ginger enhances potency.); 1/2 cup Taiwanese Rice Wine (Michiu) (Dry sherry works as a substitute if needed.); 2 tablespoons Rock Sugar (Feel free to use granulated sugar if needed.); 4 cups Water (Adjust for preferred thickness.); to taste Salt (Season to taste.); 2 pieces Scallions (Julienned for a delightful crunch and color.)

As the chill of winter settles in, I find myself reaching for comforting recipes that warm both the body and soul. One of my all-time favorites is Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup, a dish that envelops you in a gentle embrace with its rich, savory flavors. The combination of black sesame oil and fresh ginger not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a healing warmth that soothes the spirit, making it a nourishing choice for those brisk evenings. This hearty soup is not only quick to prepare but also a fantastic way to keep your loved ones cozy during the colder months. Ready to learn how to make this delightful soup and bring a bowl of warmth to your kitchen? Let’s dive into an experience that might just become your new winter staple!

Why will you adore this soup?

Heartwarming and Nourishing: This Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl during winter.

Incredible Flavor: The rich combination of black sesame oil and fresh ginger creates a savory depth that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Quick to Prepare: With just over an hour of your time, you can whip up a comforting dish that’s ready to serve, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Versatile Options: Adjust the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping chicken legs for thighs, ensuring that you can customize it to your liking. And if you’re interested in alternative comforting dishes, be sure to check out Alternative Thanksgiving Meals.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s for a family dinner or a meal with friends, this hearty soup is an excellent way to impress your guests while providing them with the nourishment they need.

Ingredients for Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup

For the Soup Base
• Chicken Legs – a tender protein source; use fresh legs for the best flavor.
• Black Sesame Oil – adds a rich, nutty depth; substitute with light sesame oil for a milder taste.
• Ginger – imparts warmth and medicinal properties; fresh ginger enhances potency.
• Taiwanese Rice Wine (Michiu) – boosts umami flavor; dry sherry works as a substitute if needed.
• Rock Sugar – contributes a subtle sweetness; feel free to use granulated sugar if it’s what you have on hand.
• Water – serves as the soup base; adjust for preferred thickness.
• Salt – enhances overall flavor; season to taste.

For Garnish
• Scallions – fresh and vibrant; julienned for a delightful crunch and color.

Enjoy crafting this nourishing Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup, a perfect dish that warms your family and friends on chilly days!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by rinsing the chicken legs thoroughly under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Ensuring the chicken is dry will help achieve a nice sear later. Set the chicken aside while you preheat your thick-bottomed pot over high heat until it starts to smoke slightly—this will help prevent sticking during cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Ginger
Once your pot is properly heated, lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of black sesame oil along with thinly sliced ginger. Sauté the ginger for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes fragrant and golden. The warmth of the sesame oil will infuse the pot, setting a flavor foundation for your Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Now it’s time to elevate your flavors! Increase the heat back to high and add the chicken legs, searing them until they are golden brown on all sides, which should take roughly 4–5 minutes per side. You want a nice crisp exterior that locks in the juices, giving your soup a hearty richness.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients
Reduce the heat to medium once the chicken is browned. Pour in 1/2 cup of Taiwanese rice wine, 2 tablespoons of rock sugar, and enough water to cover the chicken by about an inch. Stir gently to combine the ingredients while scraping any flavorful bits stuck to the pot, making sure your Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup has all the right foundations for deep flavor.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Cover the pot and let the soup come to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 30 minutes, keeping an eye on it. Check occasionally to ensure a steady simmer without boiling over. The chicken will become tender and infuse the broth with savory flavors, creating a fragrant soup that’s perfect for winter.

Step 6: Check and Season
After 30 minutes, carefully lift the lid and test the chicken for tenderness. If it’s fall-off-the-bone tender, season the soup with salt to taste, adjusting as needed. The flavors should blend beautifully, enhancing the essence of your Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, julienne some scallions for a fresh garnish. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, making sure to include a chicken leg in each serving. Sprinkle the julienned scallions on top for a colorful, crunchy finish that brightens the rich broth and elevates your comforting Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup to perfection.

How to Store and Freeze Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup

Fridge: Store your Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
Freezer: The soup can be frozen for up to 1 month. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stovetop.
Reheating: For best results, reheat soup on low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Avoid boiling to maintain texture and flavor quality.

Variations & Substitutions for Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup

Feel free to make this comforting soup your own by exploring these delightful variations!

Thighs Instead of Legs: Swap chicken legs for thighs for even juicier meat that falls off the bone. Trust me; the richness is divine!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk in place of any creamy additions for a luscious, dairy-free alternative with a subtle sweetness.
Veggie Boost: Add sliced shiitake mushrooms or bok choy during the last 10 minutes for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some sliced red chili or a dash of chili oil if you crave a bit of heat to warm you even more.
Noodle Addition: Incorporate glass noodles for a hearty twist; they soak up the broth perfectly and create an inviting texture.
Herb Fusion: Sprinkle in freshly chopped cilantro or basil before serving for an aromatic finish that lifts the overall flavor profile.
Low-Sodium: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce or tamari instead of salt for those watching their sodium intake, ensuring you don’t sacrifice flavor.
Alternative Sweeteners: Use honey or maple syrup instead of rock sugar for a different sweetness that enhances the broth’s depth.

As you embark on your cooking journey, don’t hesitate to experiment and create a version of the Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup that reflects your unique taste. For other comforting meal ideas, check out our popular Pretzel Chicken Mustard recipe!

Make Ahead Options

These Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup preparations are a game-changer for busy home cooks! You can marinate the chicken legs in black sesame oil, ginger, and rice wine up to 24 hours ahead, allowing the flavors to infuse beautifully. Additionally, you can sauté the ginger and prepare the soup base (excluding the water and garnishes) 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, add the water, simmer the soup gently, and finish with a sprinkle of julienned scallions for a fresh touch. This way, you’ll have a nourishing, delicious meal ready with minimal effort, just as comforting and vibrant as if you made it from scratch that day!

What to Serve with Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup

As you prepare this nourishing bowl of soup, let’s explore some delightful accompaniments that will round out your meal beautifully.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Its fragrant aroma and fluffy texture make it the perfect partner to soak up the rich broth.
Crusty Bread: A warm loaf gives a satisfying crunch, wonderfully complementing the soothing essence of the soup. Pair it for a comforting, hearty bite.
Sautéed Bok Choy: These tender greens add a vibrant splash of color and a fresh crunch, balancing the dish’s warm flavors.
Pickled Vegetables: Offer a tangy contrast to the savory soup, adding an exciting layer of flavor to your meal. The crunch and acidity elevate the overall experience.
Sesame Oil Dipping Sauce: A mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili can provide a flavor burst for those who enjoy an extra kick to their dishes.
Chrysanthemum Tea: Sip this soothing herbal tea alongside your meal, which enhances digestion and adds tranquility to your dining experience.
Crispy Tofu: With a delightful crunch and chewy inside, adding tofu brings a protein-rich element full of flavor while offering another texture for your palate.

Elevate your comforting Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup with these thoughtful pairings, transforming each bite into a melody of warmth and satisfaction!

Expert Tips for Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup

Preheat Properly: Ensure your pot is fully heated before adding the chicken to avoid sticking and to achieve a perfect sear.
Gentle Simmering: Keep the soup at a gentle simmer to deepen flavors without excessive evaporation or toughness in the chicken.
Check for Tenderness: After 30 minutes of simmering, gently test the chicken for tenderness; it should be fall-off-the-bone soft for the best texture in your Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to incorporate vegetables like napa cabbage or tofu towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and variety.
Taste as You Go: Season the soup gradually; start with salt and adjust to taste to ensure a well-balanced final dish.

Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken legs for this soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, always opt for fresh chicken legs. Look for legs that are plump and have a nice pink hue, without any dark spots or discoloration. If you prefer, organic or free-range options can offer a richer taste and higher quality.

How long can I store the Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup?
This comforting soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if the soup has thickened during storage.

Can I freeze Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup?
Certainly! You can freeze your Taiwanese Sesame Oil Chicken Soup for up to 1 month. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, but remember to leave some space at the top to allow for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge, and reheat on low heat on the stovetop until warmed through.

What should I do if the chicken turns out tough?
If your chicken isn’t as tender as you’d like, it might need a longer cooking time. Make sure to simmer gently rather than boiling vigorously, which helps keep the chicken moist. If you find that the chicken is still tough, simply cover the pot and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until it becomes fall-off-the-bone tender.

Can I include vegetables in this soup?
Very! You can definitely enhance the soup’s nutritional value by adding vegetables like napa cabbage, bok choy, or even glass noodles towards the end of the cooking process. Just add them in during the last 10-15 minutes of simmering, so they retain their color and nutrients.

Is this soup suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re concerned about gluten or specific allergens, be sure to use gluten-free rice wine. For vegetarian options, substitute the chicken with firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of water. This way, you can still enjoy a similarly comforting bowl of soup tailored to your dietary needs!