Ginseng is similar in appearance to a root vegetable, but it is actually an herb. Although ginseng is an edible herb, both the American and Asian varieties can have side effects, so it is not right for everyone. Before using ginseng as an ingredient in soup, talk to your doctor and follow her advice, especially if you have a medical condition such as high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes, or if you are pregnant or a nursing mother. After getting medical clearance, prepare ginseng soup to serve warm or cold in the traditional Asian style.
Step 1
Wash the ginger root and ginseng roots under cold running water. Cut a slice from the ginger root, peel the slice using a vegetable peeler and then use a sharp utility knife to dice an amount equal to about 2 tbsp. Use the same knife to cut both ginseng roots into thin slices.
Step 2
Slice the chicken breast into strips about 1 inch in length.
Step 3
Turn a stove burner to "Medium-High" heat and heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or soup pot.
Step 4
Add the chopped onions, diced ginger and minced garlic and stir-fry them for about two minutes, until the ingredients start to brown. Add the chicken-breast strips and continue stir-frying the soup for another four minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink.
Step 5
Pour water and chicken broth into the pot, keeping the heat at medium high. When the liquid starts to boil, add the corn and ginseng slices.
Step 6
Turn the burner heat to "Medium," simmer the soup for about 20 minutes, and then season it with white or black pepper. Serve the soup warm, or cool it and serve it cold.
Tips and Warnings
- Ginseng has a strong flavor. If it is too strong for your taste, remove the ginseng slices with a slotted spoon before serving the soup. If you cannot get fresh ginseng, add four bags of ginseng tea to the liquid when you add the corn.
- Ginseng can cause allergic reactions including difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of your lips, tongue or face, or hives. If you experience any of these symptoms after eating ginseng soup, call your doctor or get emergency medical attention immediately.
Things You'll Need
- Utility knife
- Vegetable peeler
- 1 fresh ginger root
- 2 tbsp. fresh ginger, diced
- 2 ginseng roots
- Dutch oven or soup pot
- 2 tbsp. olive oil
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups onion, chopped
- 4 to 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb. boneless chicken breast
- 3 cups water
- 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 3 cups corn, fresh or frozen
- 1/8 tsp. white or black pepper
Member Comments