Tinola with a Twist

Recipe

Tinola with a Twist

Ginger-infused Chicken Soup: A Filipino Delight

Tinola is a classic Filipino dish known for its comforting flavors and nourishing qualities. This recipe puts a twist on the traditional version by infusing the soup with the warm and aromatic flavors of ginger, creating a delightful and satisfying meal.

Jan Dec

20 minutes

40 minutes

60 minutes

4 servings

Easy

Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Low-carb, High-protein, Paleo

N/A

Vegan, Vegetarian

Ingredients

Nutrition

  • Calories: 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
  • Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat: 3g)
  • Carbohydrates: 15g (Sugar: 7g)
  • Protein: 40g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Salt: 2g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    Heat the cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant.
  2. 2.
    Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
  3. 3.
    Pour in the chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
  4. 4.
    Add the green papaya wedges and simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until the papaya is cooked but still firm.
  5. 5.
    Season with fish sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
  6. 6.
    Add the spinach leaves and green chili peppers (if using) and cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts.
  7. 7.
    Remove from heat and serve hot with steamed rice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Chicken — Make sure to choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor and texture. You can use bone-in or boneless chicken pieces according to your preference.
  • Ginger — Use fresh ginger for the best flavor. Peel the ginger before slicing it to release its aromatic oils.
  • Green papaya — Look for green papayas that are firm and unripe. They should be slightly sweet and have a crisp texture when cooked.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a spicier version, add more green chili peppers or include a few slices of red chili peppers.
  • If green papaya is not available, you can substitute it with chayote or zucchini.
  • To enhance the flavor, you can add a stalk of lemongrass while simmering the soup.
  • Serve the Tinola with a side of calamansi or lime wedges for a tangy kick.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to develop and intensify over time.

Serving advice

Serve the Tinola with a bowl of steamed rice on the side. Garnish with fresh cilantro or spring onions for added freshness and color.

Presentation advice

Present the Tinola in a large soup bowl, making sure to include a generous amount of chicken, papaya, and spinach in each serving. Drizzle some of the flavorful broth over the ingredients for an appetizing presentation.