Tinolang Manok or Chicken Tinola is a classic Filipino chicken soup dish that is perfect for the rainy season or for any day when you need comfort food. Created with chunks of chicken meat, papaya or chayote slices, malunggay leaves, and ginger, this soup is not only nourishing and flavorful but also very comforting to eat.
Here’s how to cook Tinolang Manok:
Ingredients:
– 1 kg of Chicken (cut into serving pieces)
– 1 piece of Green Papaya (cut into wedges)
– 2-3 pieces of Chayote (cut into wedges)
– 1/2 cup of Malunggay leaves
– 1 piece of Onion (diced)
– 3 cloves of Garlic (minced)
– 2 thumbs of Ginger (julienned)
– 2 tbsp of Fish sauce
– 8 cups of Water
– Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a cooking pot over medium heat. Pour in oil, add garlic, ginger, and onion in that order. Saute for about 2 minutes or until the onion is translucent.
2. Add chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until it turns light brown.
3. Pour fish sauce and mix well.
4. Add 8 cups of water, cover and bring to a boil.
5. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is tender.
6. Add green papaya or chayote depending on your preference. Cook for about 3-5 minutes.
7. Add malunggay leaves and turn off the heat.
8. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
9. Serve hot on top of rice.
FAQs:
What if I can’t find malunggay leaves?
Malunggay leaves can be substituted with spinach or any leafy greens that you prefer. You can also omit if it’s not available.
Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken pieces?
Yes, you can certainly use chicken breast, but it may not be as flavorful compared to using the chicken pieces with bones.
What if I don’t have fish sauce?
You can use soy sauce as a substitute if you don’t have fish sauce, but the flavor might be different.
Can I use other vegetables instead of papaya or chayote?
Yes, you can use any vegetables of your choice like potato, carrot, or squash.
Can I use a slow cooker to cook Tinolang Manok?
Yes, you can use a slow cooker. Just add all the ingredients and set it to high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-8 hours.
In conclusion, Tinolang Manok is a healthy and satisfying dish that can be cooked easily and quickly. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this dish is perfect for anyone who wants to try cooking Filipino cuisine for the first time. So why not give it a try and enjoy the delicious taste of Tinolang Manok!
