This Black Sesame Chicken Soup Recipe is a delightful harmony of earthy, nutty black sesame flavor layered with bright citrusy lime and fragrant aromatics like galangal, lemongrass, and garlic. It’s a cozy yet invigorating soup that melds simple, fresh ingredients into a nourishing bowl of comfort. Perfectly tender chicken thigh pieces swim in a golden broth that is both soothing and memorable. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight treat or something special to warm up a chilly day, this recipe delivers an irresistible combination that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a vital role in building the unique flavors and textures of this soup. From the nutty black sesame seeds to the zesty lime juice, every component enhances the soup’s depth and character.
- Black sesame seeds: Toast them lightly to unleash their rich, nutty aroma and deepen the soup’s flavor.
- Fresh galangal (or root ginger): Provides a citrusy, warm pungency that brightens the broth beautifully.
- Garlic cloves, peeled: Adds savory depth and a subtle sweetness when infused together with the broth.
- Lemongrass stalk: Imparts a fresh, lemony fragrance that pairs perfectly with the black sesame’s earthiness.
- Shallots, peeled: Contribute a gentle onion flavor that rounds out the soup’s aromatics.
- Skinless chicken thigh fillets, trimmed: Tender and juicy, they cook quickly and absorb all the wonderful broth flavors.
- Fish sauce: A splash of umami that deepens the soup’s savory notes without overpowering.
- Lime juice: Freshly squeezed for bright acidity that lifts the entire dish.
- Coriander leaves: For a fresh herbal garnish that adds color and complexity.
- Sliced spring onions: Offer a mild onion crunch as a vibrant topping.
- Lime slices or wedges: To squeeze over just before eating for an extra zing.
How to Make Black Sesame Chicken Soup Recipe
Step 1: Toast and Grind the Black Sesame Seeds
Start by dry toasting the black sesame seeds in a hot frying pan for about one minute until you hear them start to crackle and the aroma fills your kitchen. This step intensifies their natural nuttiness. Then, use a pestle and mortar to grind them into a fine powder—this will seamlessly blend into the broth while adding beautiful color and texture.
Step 2: Infuse the Broth with Aromatics
Peel and slice fresh galangal, lightly bash the garlic cloves and lemongrass to release their oils, and halve the shallots. Place all these fragrant ingredients into a pot with 900 ml of cold water and a pinch of salt. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then simmer for 10 minutes to build a flavorful base. Turn off the heat and let the broth steep for at least 30 minutes to soak up all those incredible aromas.
Step 3: Strain and Cook the Chicken
Carefully strain the infused broth through a sieve into a clean pot, pressing the aromatics gently to extract maximum flavor. Bring the strained broth back to a rolling boil and add the chicken thighs. Let the soup simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the chicken pieces are tender and cooked through, infusing the soup with their juicy goodness.
Step 4: Add the Roasted Black Sesame Powder
Now comes the magic moment: gradually sprinkle the ground black sesame seeds into the simmering broth. The soup will start to thicken slightly and develop a rich, velvety texture that feels both luxurious and comforting with every spoonful.
Step 5: Flavor with Fish Sauce and Lime Juice
Stir in fish sauce to deepen the savory umami layer, then add freshly squeezed lime juice to brighten and balance all those deep flavors. Taste and adjust these seasonings until the soup hits that perfect harmony of tangy, salty, and nutty deliciousness.
Step 6: Ladle, Garnish, and Serve
Finally, ladle your Black Sesame Chicken Soup into bowls and garnish generously with fresh coriander leaves, sliced spring onions, and lime wedges. These finishing touches add bursts of freshness, vibrant color, and an inviting aroma that makes this dish look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Black Sesame Chicken Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness is key when it comes to garnishing. Coriander leaves bring a bright herbal note, while thinly sliced spring onions offer a crisp bite. The lime wedges are essential for squeezing over your soup tableside, giving each spoonful a lively zing that complements the rich black sesame.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with light, simple sides such as steamed jasmine rice or crusty bread that soaks up every last drop of the flavorful broth. A crisp cucumber salad or lightly dressed greens add refreshing contrast and help round out your meal without overpowering the soup’s delicate balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve your soup in rustic bowls with a sprinkle of toasted black sesame seeds on top for extra crunch and visual appeal. You can also add a swirl of coconut cream for a subtle richness or a drizzle of chili oil if you enjoy a hint of heat. These little tweaks turn your Black Sesame Chicken Soup Recipe into a memorable centerpiece at any dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Black Sesame Chicken Soup to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for easy, comforting lunches or dinners during a busy week.
Freezing
This soup freezes very well. Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid boiling vigorously as this can toughen the chicken and dull the fresh flavors. Adding a splash of water or broth helps if the soup has thickened too much in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thigh fillets?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but thighs tend to stay juicier and more tender after simmering. If using breasts, just be careful not to overcook them to keep the soup silky and flavorful.
Where can I find galangal if I don’t have it on hand?
Galangal is common in Asian markets and some specialty grocery stores. If it’s not available, fresh root ginger is a good substitute though it will change the flavor slightly, adding more of a spicy kick than the citrusy warmth of galangal.
Is black sesame paste the same as ground black sesame seeds?
They’re not exactly the same. Ground black sesame seeds are toasted and crushed into a powder, perfect for this soup. Black sesame paste is more oily and concentrated, so it can alter the texture and richness quite a bit if substituted.
How important is the lemongrass in this recipe?
Lemongrass adds a fresh, lemon-like fragrance that brightens the soup beautifully and balances the earthiness of the black sesame. It’s a key ingredient for an authentic taste, but if you’re in a pinch, a touch of lemon zest can work as a shortcut.
Can this soup be made vegetarian or vegan?
For a vegetarian or vegan version, substitute chicken with firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Replace fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari to keep the umami flavor intact. The black sesame base remains just as wonderful and comforting.
Final Thoughts
This Black Sesame Chicken Soup Recipe is truly a treasure to keep in your culinary repertoire. Its unique blend of fragrant herbs, tangy lime, and the deep roasted notes of black sesame create a soup that feels both exotic and familiar at once. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself, this soup promises a soothing, flavorful experience that warms the soul and delights the senses—you absolutely have to give it a try.
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Black Sesame Chicken Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southeast Asian
Description
This fragrant Black Sesame Chicken Soup combines aromatic Southeast Asian flavors with the nutty depth of toasted black sesame seeds. Tender chicken thighs simmer in a galangal, lemongrass, and garlic-infused broth, enhanced with fresh lime juice and fish sauce for a balanced, savory finish. Garnished with coriander, spring onions, and lime wedges, this comforting soup is both nourishing and vibrant, perfect for a light yet flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tbsp black sesame seeds
- 100g fresh galangal (or root ginger)
- 1 head of garlic, cloves peeled
- 1 stalk lemongrass
- 100g shallots, peeled
- 900ml cold water
- Pinch of salt
Protein and Seasoning
- 500g skinless chicken thigh fillets, trimmed
- 2 tbsp fish sauce
- 3 tbsp lime juice
Garnish
- Coriander leaves
- Sliced spring onions
- Lime slices or wedges
Instructions
- Toast and Grind Black Sesame Seeds: Dry toast the black sesame seeds in a frying pan over medium heat for about 1 minute until they begin to crackle and release their aroma. Use a pestle and mortar to grind the seeds finely for maximum flavor integration.
- Prepare Aromatic Broth: Peel and slice the galangal, lightly bash the garlic cloves and lemongrass stalk to release essential oils, and halve the shallots. Place these aromatics in a large pan with 900ml cold water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil then reduce the heat and let simmer gently for 10 minutes to extract layers of flavor. Turn off the heat and allow the infusion to steep for at least 30 minutes.
- Strain and Cook Chicken: Strain the broth through a sieve into a clean pan, pressing down on the aromatics to extract all the essence. Return the broth to a rolling boil and add the chicken thigh fillets. Simmer for 8-10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Add Ground Black Sesame: Gradually sprinkle the roasted ground black sesame seeds into the broth while stirring to evenly incorporate the nutty flavor throughout the soup.
- Season the Soup: Stir in the fish sauce and lime juice. Adjust the seasoning to taste, balancing the salty and tangy notes to your preference.
- Serve with Garnishes: Ladle the soup into individual bowls and garnish with fresh coriander leaves, sliced spring onions, and lime slices or wedges for an extra burst of freshness and visual appeal.
Notes
- Use fresh galangal for an authentic flavor, but root ginger can be substituted if unavailable.
- Toasted black sesame seeds add a deep, nutty flavor—do not skip the toasting step.
- The soup can be served with steamed rice or rice noodles to make it more filling.
- Adjust fish sauce and lime juice amounts to suit your taste preferences for saltiness and acidity.
- Leftover soup can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
