Ah, Sotanghon Soup-a warm, comforting, and downright irresistible noodle soup that has a special place in Filipino kitchens! Imagine a clear, flavorful broth that’s gently infused with garlic, onion, and tender vegetables, with silky glass noodles weaving through tender pieces of chicken or shrimp. It’s the kind of dish that hugs your soul while teasing your taste buds, perfect for rainy days, family gatherings, or simply when you want something light yet deeply satisfying.
What makes Sotanghon Soup truly magical isn’t just the noodles; it’s the combination of textures and flavors-the delicate chew of sotanghon noodles, the subtle sweetness of the broth, and the fresh pop of vegetables that create a symphony of comfort in every spoonful.
Sotanghon Soup Easy Recipe
This is your go-to, hassle-free version of Sotanghon Soup that doesn’t compromise flavor. It’s straightforward enough for weeknight cooking but flavorful enough to impress guests.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you need to create a pot of warmth and joy:
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Protein
- 250g chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Optional: 100g shrimp, peeled and deveined
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Noodles
- 100g sotanghon (glass noodles), soaked in warm water for 10 minutes
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Vegetables
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cabbage, thinly sliced
- Optional: spring onions for garnish
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Broth & Flavorings
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce (patis)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
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Optional Additions
- Fried garlic for topping
- Boiled quail eggs or chicken eggs
Cooking Instructions
Let’s get cooking, step by step, so your kitchen fills with that amazing aroma:
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Prep The Noodles
- Soak sotanghon noodles in warm water for 10 minutes until soft. Drain and set aside.
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Cook The Aromatics
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant and slightly golden.
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Cook The Protein
- Add chicken pieces to the pot. Sauté until lightly browned on the edges.
- If using shrimp, add them toward the end of cooking so they don’t overcook.
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Build The Soup
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Season with fish sauce, salt, and black pepper.
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Add Vegetables
- Toss in carrots and cabbage. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until just tender.
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Incorporate The Noodles
- Add soaked sotanghon noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently so they don’t clump.
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Final Touches
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Garnish with spring onions or fried garlic. Serve hot.
Ingredient Insights
Here’s a deeper dive into what makes this soup so comforting:
- Sotanghon (glass noodles): These noodles are made from mung bean starch. They’re naturally translucent and take on the flavor of the soup beautifully. They’re light, silky, and have a fun, slightly chewy texture.
- Chicken: Using thighs adds richness, while breast keeps it lean. Both work beautifully.
- Fish sauce: Just a tablespoon elevates the broth with umami depth without overpowering it.
- Vegetables: Carrots add sweetness, cabbage adds crunch, and optional spring onions give a fresh aroma.
Expert Tips
To elevate your Sotanghon Soup from good to unforgettable:
- Don’t overcook the noodles: Sotanghon softens quickly and can become mushy if left too long. Add them last.
- Layer flavors: Sauté aromatics first, then add protein, then broth-this builds a deeper flavor profile.
- Customize saltiness: Fish sauce is potent, so start small and adjust to taste.
- Use homemade broth if possible: It makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Recipe Variations
There’s so much room for creativity with Sotanghon Soup:
- Seafood version: Swap chicken for a mix of shrimp, squid, and fish fillets.
- Vegetarian version: Use vegetable broth and add tofu instead of meat.
- Spicy twist: Add a few slices of chili or a dash of chili oil.
- Heartier version: Include mushrooms, corn, or even small dumplings for a filling soup.
Final Words
Making Sotanghon Soup is more than cooking; it’s an act of care. The aroma of garlic and onion sizzling in the pot, the gentle simmer of chicken broth, and the soft embrace of glass noodles create a sensory experience that warms both heart and belly. It’s a simple soup, yet it carries a complexity of flavors that’s both nostalgic and nourishing.
FAQs
What Is Sotanghon Soup?
Sotanghon soup is a Filipino noodle soup made with sotanghon (glass noodles or cellophane noodles), vegetables, seasonings, and often chicken or other proteins. It is known for its light yet savory broth and comforting qualities.
What Are The Main Ingredients For An Easy Sotanghon Soup Recipe?
The essential ingredients usually include sotanghon noodles, garlic, onion, chicken (or other protein), chicken broth, fish sauce, annatto powder (optional for color), and vegetables such as carrots, cabbage, or celery.
How Do I Prepare The Sotanghon Noodles Before Cooking?
Sotanghon noodles are soaked in warm water for about 10-15 minutes until softened. Once rehydrated, they are drained and added to the soup near the end of cooking.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Sotanghon Soup?
An easy sotanghon soup recipe typically takes around 30-40 minutes from preparation to serving, depending on the cooking method and ingredients used.
Can I Make Sotanghon Soup Without Chicken?
Yes. Sotanghon soup can be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth and omitting the meat. You can also substitute with other proteins such as pork, shrimp, or tofu.
What Seasonings Give Sotanghon Soup Its Flavor?
Fish sauce, garlic, onion, ground black pepper, and sometimes annatto powder or oil are common flavor enhancers. Some recipes also include soy sauce for a deeper taste.
Can I Make Sotanghon Soup In Advance?
Yes, but it is best to store the broth and noodles separately. The noodles tend to absorb liquid and may become mushy if left in the broth for too long.
How Do I Prevent Sotanghon Noodles From Becoming Soggy?
Add the softened noodles towards the end of cooking and let them simmer only for a few minutes. Avoid overcooking to maintain their springy texture.
What Toppings Or Garnishes Can Be Added To Sotanghon Soup?
Common toppings include boiled eggs, fried garlic bits, chopped green onions, toasted shallots, and calamansi juice for added freshness.
Is Sotanghon Soup Healthy?
Yes, sotanghon soup can be nutritious, especially when made with lean proteins, vegetables, and low-sodium broth. However, the healthiness depends on the choice of ingredients and portion sizes.