I bet you might have tried another version of spicy chicken soup before, but Kan Eang’s style of spicy chicken soup will still surprise you with its unique flavor and aroma. It is also Kan Eang’s signature and most recommended meal on the menu. It features a harmonious blend of concentrated herbs and chicken. It is one of the dishes you should try if you are visiting Southern Thailand.
Story behind Legendary
This dish came about by chance at Kan Eang. In the past, the restaurant was a small shack selling groceries to fishermen and locals. When people stopped by before heading to the islands, they would chat in a friendly manner. The restaurant needed a quick dish to prepare for these visits. So, local chicken, which every household raised, was the perfect choice. The chicken was deboned and some of the meat was fried. The remaining meat, bones, and offal were boiled with crushed green chili and red onion, tamarind juice, and various herbs, resulting in an incredibly flavorful spicy chicken soup.
How Spicy Chicken Soup is prepared?
The specialty of this spicy chicken comes from the selection of local chicken which has a more intense natural taste. Bone-in chicken is chopped with innards and it is boiled with galangal, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and shallots. The aroma of the soup is tempting and will make you hungry. This enticing aroma comes from the combination of Khao, lime, and red onion, with flavors enhanced by fresh green chili that dissolves during cooking. This dish also adds spiciness with fresh green chilies, smashed enough to release their flavor.
Each of the ingredients contributes significantly to the soup’s distinct flavor. Galangal imparts a citrusy and spicy flavor, while lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves provide a fresh, zesty scent. The shallots add a slight sweetness that balances the heat from the chilis. The tamarind juice provides a powerful taste and a tart touch, improving the entire taste and making each spoonful a delightful treat.
Taste of Uniqueness
The natural rich taste of the chicken is distinct in the spicy chicken soup. The soup’s deliciousness lies in its aromatic broth, infused with galangal, lemongrass, red onion, and fresh, slightly crushed green chili. It is perfect for those who love spicy and Southern Thai cuisine. What separates this soup is its richness of taste.
The longer the soup simmers, the more the flavors combine, resulting in a delicate and delicious taste. The combination of spicy, sour, and savory flavors makes it a memorable meal. It is also delicious when eaten with steamed rice. This variety combines the sweet essence of chicken meat and organs, presenting a traditional recipe that has been savored for over 50 years.
Health Benefits
Spicy Chicken Soup has many medical benefits. The herbs used in this recipe contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The chicken itself is also good for health as it is naturally raised without artificial additives, which is high in protein but low in fat which is beneficial to the body. Tamarind juice also helps digestion.
Galangal and lemongrass have anti-inflammatory qualities and can improve the immune system. Kaffir lime leaves are high in antioxidants, which protect the body from free radicals. Fresh chilies contain capsaicin, which has been proven to increase metabolism and help in weight reduction. The combination of these components makes the soup both tasty and nutritious. Locals believe that it has properties that help get rid of colds. It might be true; if you try it, the spiciness will chase your flu away.
A Must-try Dish
You can choose to have your spicy chicken soup served in a bowl or a pot with a small stand-by fire stove. We recommend the pot if you want to keep it warm while trying other dishes. This serving style is ideal for sharing with friends and families, making it a perfect collaborative dish for gatherings. The recipe passed down through generations, connects the past with the present, offering a taste of history in every bite.
Kan Eang’s spicy chicken soup is a culinary masterpiece that showcases the traditional taste of Southern Thailand. With its rich history, unique preparation, and numerous health benefits, it’s no wonder this dish has become a favorite dish for many customers. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this is one of the dishes you shouldn’t miss at Kan Eang.
