Lemongrass Noodle Soup with Chicken: Vietnamese Pho Ga Xa

When it comes to comfort food, nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming bowl of soup. And when that soup is bursting with flavorful herbs, spices, and tender pieces of chicken, it’s hard to resist going back for seconds. Enter the Lemongrass Noodle Soup with Chicken, also known as Vietnamese Pho Ga Xa. This traditional Vietnamese dish is a true standout in the world of soups, with its fragrant lemongrass-infused broth and chewy rice noodles.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 3 stalks lemongrass, smashed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 onion, peeled and quartered
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 8 ounces dried rice noodles
• Fresh herbs (Thai basil, cilantro, mint)
• Bean sprouts
• Lime wedges
• Chili peppers, sliced

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a simmer over medium heat. Add the lemongrass, onion, garlic, and ginger to the pot. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. While the broth is simmering, prepare the chicken. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. In a separate pan, heat some oil over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through.
3. Once the broth has simmered for 20 minutes, strain out the lemongrass, onion, ginger, and garlic. Return the broth to the pot and add the fish sauce, sugar, and salt. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
4. Prepare the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Divide the noodles among serving bowls. Top with the cooked chicken.
5. Ladle the hot broth over the noodles and chicken. Serve the Lemongrass Noodle Soup with Chicken hot, garnished with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime wedges, and sliced chili peppers.

Health Benefits:

Not only is Lemongrass Noodle Soup with Chicken a delicious and comforting meal, but it also offers a range of health benefits. Lemongrass is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, while chicken provides a good source of lean protein. The fresh herbs and vegetables add vitamins and minerals to the dish, making it a well-rounded and nutritious option for any meal.

Conclusion:

With its fragrant broth, chewy noodles, and tender chicken, Lemongrass Noodle Soup with Chicken is a delightful dish that never fails to satisfy. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly day or simply craving a taste of Vietnamese cuisine, this Pho Ga Xa recipe is sure to hit the spot. Give it a try and experience the warmth and flavor of this traditional dish!