Here’s a nourishing and simple recipe for a Korean style Ginseng Chicken Soup (Samgyetang)—a traditional dish enjoyed especially during the hot "San Fu" days in Korea to restore energy, boost immunity, and balance the body from the inside out.
Using food like this is part of Yang Sheng - Nourishing traditions for diet and lifestyle that Traditional Chinese Medicine values for optimal health.
Simple Ginseng Chicken Soup (based on Samgyetang)
A warming, restorative soup for seasonal support
Ingredients (Serves 2–4)
2–4 chicken drumsticks or thighs (bone-in for best flavour)
3–4 slices fresh ginger
2–3 pieces dried ginseng root (or 1 small fresh ginseng)
4–5 garlic cloves, lightly crushed
2–3 dried red dates (jujubes)
1 small handful goji berries (optional, added near the end)
1–2 spring onions, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
6–8 cups of liquid bone broth (I use this in my cooking - Best of the Bone)
Sea salt, to taste
Optional: Add a few slices of Dang Gui Root or Dang Shen root if using Raw Chinese herbs
Instructions
Simmer the broth
Place chicken, ginseng, ginger, garlic, dates, and spring onion into a pot with water or broth. Bring to a boil.Reduce and simmer gently
Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 60–90 minutes, uncovered. Skim any foam or excess fat as needed.Add goji berries (optional)
If using goji berries, add them in the last 10–15 minutes of cooking.Season and serve
Add sea salt to taste. Garnish with fresh spring onion before serving.
Why It's Special for Seasonal Transition
This soup:
Nourishes Qi and Yang
Supports immunity and digestion
Combines Chinese Medicine Dietary Therapy with tonifying, raw herbs
Gently warms the body without overheating
It pairs beautifully with Moxa therapy during seasonal transitions or when you're feeling depleted, run-down, or recovering from illness. To read more about Moxa Season, click here.
