Savory Chinese Chicken and Mushroom Soup

This comforting soup combines traditional Chinese flavors with a creative twist, featuring tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a hint of ginger. Infused with umami-rich broth and seasoned with aromatic herbs, it's a delightful blend of textures and tastes that warms the soul. Perfectly satisfying yet light, this dish meets a variety of dietary requirements, making it an ideal choice for any meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups shiitake mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups bok choy, chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon white pepper
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken pieces. Cook until browned on all sides.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer.
5. Add the sliced shiitake mushrooms and chopped bok choy to the pot. Stir well and let simmer for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
6. Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro.