Delicious Gaeng Jued: A Clear Soup Recipe
Gaeng Jued is a delightful and refreshing Thai clear soup that has a special place in Thai cuisine. Known for its light and soothing qualities, this soup is often enjoyed when someone is feeling under the weather or simply wants a warm, comforting meal. The origins of Gaeng Jued can be traced back to traditional Thai home-cooking, where families gather around the table to share love and warmth, making it a staple in many households. Its popularity comes from its simplicity, adaptability, and the ability to highlight fresh ingredients without overwhelming flavors.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken or Tofu (cubed) | 1 cup |
| Carrots (sliced) | 1 medium |
| Mushrooms (sliced, like button or shiitake) | 1 cup |
| Celery (chopped) | 1 stalk |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Chicken or Vegetable Broth | 4 cups |
| Fish Sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Soy Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| White Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Chopped Green Onions | 2 tablespoons (for garnish) |
| Fresh Cilantro | 2 tablespoons (for garnish) |
If you prefer vegetarian options, you can replace chicken with tofu or simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and chop all your vegetables (carrots, mushrooms, celery) and cube the chicken or tofu.
- Heat the Broth: In a large pot, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add Garlic: Once the broth is boiling, add the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Chicken or Tofu: Stir in the cubed chicken or tofu. Allow it to cook for around 5 minutes or until fully cooked through.
- Incorporate Vegetables: Add the sliced carrots, mushrooms, and chopped celery to the pot. Let everything simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Season the Soup: Stir in the fish sauce, soy sauce, and white pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Turn off the heat, and serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 150 | 7% |
| Protein | 12g | 24% |
| Carbohydrates | 15g | 5% |
| Fats | 4g | 6% |
| Sodium | 600mg | 26% |
| Vitamin A | 500 IU | 10% |
| Vitamin C | 8mg | 10% |
Tips and Tricks
- Customize Your Soup: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, bok choy, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Make it Spicy: If you love heat, consider adding sliced chili peppers or a dash of chili paste for a spicy twist.
- Perfect Timing: Don’t overcook the vegetables; they should be tender but still vibrant and slightly crunchy.
- Avoid Clumpy Tofu: If using tofu, try pressing it first to remove excess moisture before cubing for better texture.
FAQs
What is Gaeng Jued?
Gaeng Jued is a traditional Thai clear soup that is light and simple, often made with vegetables and protein like chicken or tofu.
Can I make Gaeng Jued vegetarian?
Yes! Just use vegetable broth and tofu instead of chicken, and enjoy a delicious vegetarian version.
How long does it take to prepare Gaeng Jued?
The preparation and cooking time for Gaeng Jued is about 30 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can work just as well; however, remember to adjust cooking time since they might cook faster.
Is this soup healthy?
Yes! Gaeng Jued is packed with vitamins and is low in calories, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.
What can I serve with Gaeng Jued?
This clear soup pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or can be enjoyed as a light appetizer.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Gaeng Jued in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.
Can I use other proteins?
Yes! You can experiment with different proteins like shrimp or fish, depending on your preference.
What if I don’t have fish sauce?
If you don’t have fish sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce for a similar umami flavor.
Is Gaeng Jued spicy?
Traditionally, Gaeng Jued is not spicy, but you can add chili if you prefer it to have some heat.
Can I use homemade broth?
Definitely! Using homemade broth can enhance the flavor of your Gaeng Jued even more.
What vegetables are best in Gaeng Jued?
Popular options include carrots, mushrooms, celery, or even leafy greens like spinach for added nutrition.
How do I make it more filling?
To make your soup heartier, you can add rice noodles or serve it over steamed rice.
Now that you know how to make this delicious and comforting Gaeng Jued soup, gather your ingredients and enjoy a taste of Thai cuisine right from your kitchen! Happy cooking!
