Chicken Sotanghon Guisado is a popular Filipino dish that is made with chicken, sotanghon noodles, and a variety of vegetables. It is a hearty and flavorful meal that is perfect for special occasions or everyday dining. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cook Chicken Sotanghon Guisado.
What is Sotanghon Guisado?
Sotanghon Guisado is a Filipino dish that originated from the Chinese. The word “sotanghon” refers to a type of noodle made from mung bean starch, while “guisado” means “stewed” in Filipino. The dish is a variation of the Chinese noodle soup, but with a Filipino twist. It is typically made with a combination of vegetables, meat or seafood, and noodles, cooked in a savory broth.
History of Sotanghon Guisado
Sotanghon Guisado has a long history in the Philippines. It is believed to have been introduced by Chinese immigrants who came to the country during the Spanish colonial period. Over time, the dish evolved and was adapted to local tastes and ingredients. Today, Sotanghon Guisado is a popular dish in the Philippines and is often served at special occasions such as weddings and fiestas.
Ingredients Needed
To cook Chicken Sotanghon Guisado, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup sotanghon noodles
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, and green onions)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons patis (fish sauce) or salt
- 2 tablespoons calamansi (Filipino lime) juice
Optional Ingredients
You can also add other ingredients to make your Chicken Sotanghon Guisado more flavorful. Some options include:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions
- 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
Instructions
Cooking Chicken Sotanghon Guisado is relatively easy. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preparing the ingredients. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. Chop the onion and garlic, and slice the mixed vegetables.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or wok over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender-crisp.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Add the sotanghon noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions. Typically, sotanghon noodles are cooked by soaking them in hot water for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are soft and pliable.
Step 5: Assemble the Dish
Add the cooked chicken, vegetables, and noodles to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and add the patis or salt, and calamansi juice. Stir well to combine.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to make your Chicken Sotanghon Guisado more delicious:
Use a Variety of Vegetables
You can use a variety of vegetables in your Chicken Sotanghon Guisado, such as cabbage, carrots, green onions, and mushrooms. You can also add other ingredients like diced bell peppers or sliced zucchini.
Add More Flavor with Spices
You can add more flavor to your Chicken Sotanghon Guisado by using spices like ground cumin, coriander, or paprika. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give it a spicy kick.
Use Different Types of Noodles
While sotanghon noodles are traditional in Chicken Sotanghon Guisado, you can also use other types of noodles like rice noodles or egg noodles.
Make it a One-Pot Meal
You can make Chicken Sotanghon Guisado a one-pot meal by cooking the chicken, vegetables, and noodles in one pot. This is a great option for busy weeknights or when you don’t have a lot of time to cook.
Nutritional Information
Chicken Sotanghon Guisado is a nutritious and balanced meal. Here is the nutritional information for one serving of the dish:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
Conclusion
Chicken Sotanghon Guisado is a delicious and nutritious Filipino dish that is perfect for special occasions or everyday dining. With its rich and savory broth, tender chicken, and variety of vegetables, it’s a meal that is sure to satisfy your cravings. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can make a delicious and authentic Chicken Sotanghon Guisado that is sure to impress your family and friends.
What is Chicken Sotanghon Guisado?
Chicken Sotanghon Guisado is a popular Filipino dish made with chicken, sotanghon noodles (also known as cellophane or glass noodles), and various vegetables. The dish is cooked in a savory broth and is often served as a main course or a snack. It is a variation of the traditional Filipino dish, Sotanghon Guisado, which is typically made with pork or beef.
The addition of chicken to the dish gives it a unique flavor and texture that is distinct from the traditional version. The sotanghon noodles are made from mung bean starch and are known for their transparent and gelatinous texture. They are a popular ingredient in many Filipino dishes and are often used in soups and stir-fries.
What are the ingredients needed to cook Chicken Sotanghon Guisado?
The ingredients needed to cook Chicken Sotanghon Guisado include chicken breast or thighs, sotanghon noodles, onions, garlic, ginger, patis (fish sauce), salt, black pepper, and various vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and green onions. You will also need some oil or butter for sautéing the ingredients. Some recipes may also include other ingredients such as soy sauce, vinegar, and chili peppers.
It’s worth noting that the ingredients may vary depending on the recipe and personal preferences. Some people may also add other ingredients such as shrimp or pork to make the dish more flavorful. Additionally, some recipes may use different types of noodles or vegetables, so feel free to experiment and find the combination that works best for you.
How do I cook Chicken Sotanghon Guisado?
To cook Chicken Sotanghon Guisado, start by sautéing the onions, garlic, and ginger in oil or butter until they are softened. Then, add the chicken and cook until it is browned and cooked through. Next, add the sotanghon noodles, patis, salt, and black pepper, and stir-fry for a few minutes. After that, add the vegetables and stir-fry until they are tender.
Finally, add some broth or water to the pan and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few minutes until the noodles are cooked and the sauce has thickened. Serve the dish hot, garnished with green onions and a sprinkle of patis. You can also serve it with a squeeze of calamansi (Filipino lime) for added flavor.
Can I use other types of noodles instead of sotanghon?
While sotanghon noodles are traditional in Chicken Sotanghon Guisado, you can use other types of noodles as a substitute. Some options include rice noodles, egg noodles, or even spaghetti. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the dish may be slightly different.
If you choose to use a different type of noodle, make sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly. For example, rice noodles may cook more quickly than sotanghon noodles, while egg noodles may require more liquid to cook properly. Experiment with different types of noodles to find the one that works best for you.
Can I make Chicken Sotanghon Guisado ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Chicken Sotanghon Guisado ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the noodles and vegetables just before serving. You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time, then refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to serve.
When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and sauce, then add the noodles and vegetables and stir-fry until they’re tender. This will help preserve the texture and flavor of the noodles and vegetables. You can also cook the entire dish ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it, but the noodles may become slightly soggy.
How do I store leftover Chicken Sotanghon Guisado?
To store leftover Chicken Sotanghon Guisado, let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate or freeze it. If refrigerating, make sure to store it in a covered container and consume it within a day or two. If freezing, place the dish in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it in the freezer for up to a month.
When reheating leftover Chicken Sotanghon Guisado, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat it in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven. If the noodles have become soggy, you can try stir-frying them with a little oil or butter to restore their texture.
Is Chicken Sotanghon Guisado a healthy dish?
Chicken Sotanghon Guisado can be a healthy dish, depending on the ingredients and cooking methods used. The sotanghon noodles are low in calories and fat, and the vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the dish. The chicken is also a good source of protein.
However, the dish can be high in sodium due to the use of patis and other seasonings. Additionally, if you use a lot of oil or butter in the cooking process, the dish can be high in fat. To make the dish healthier, use less oil or butter, and choose low-sodium seasonings. You can also add more vegetables and use leaner protein sources to increase the nutritional value of the dish.