Classic Tinolang Manok Recipe

Tinolang Manok Recipe (Chicken Tinola) is a popular Filipino dish that has been enjoyed by many for generations. Tinola, a well-loved Filipino soup, has become a favorite among families and friends during special gatherings. The dish, which is comprised of tender chicken, green papaya or chayote, and leafy vegetables, is simmered in a flavorful broth made with ginger and onion.

Including Chicken Tinola/Tinolang Manok in your culinary repertoire is highly recommended not only because of its delicious taste but also due to its numerous health benefits. In fact, it is said to be one of Jose Rizal’s favorite foods, a notable Filipino hero and scholar. To learn more about the ingredients commonly used in cooking Chicken Tinola and its health benefits, read on.

What is Tinolang Manok?

Tinolang Manok (Chicken Tinola) is a well-known Filipino soup dish, comprises chicken, green papaya or chayote, and leafy vegetables like malunggay (moringa) leaves or spinach, cooked in a flavorful broth made with ginger and onion.The soup is usually served hot and is best enjoyed with steamed rice. Chicken Tinola/Tinolang Manok is a simple and easy-to-make dish that has become a household favorite in the Philippines and other parts of the world.

The ingredients commonly used in cooking Tinolang Manok Recipe are:

• Chicken: In making Chicken Tinola/Tinolang Manok, you can use a whole chicken or chicken pieces like wings, thighs, and drumsticks. Cook the chicken with its bones and skin to enhance the broth’s taste.
• Green papaya or chayote: Green papaya or chayote is a common ingredient in Chicken Tinola/Tinolang Manok. These vegetables add a subtle sweetness and texture to the soup.
• Ginger and onion: The base of the soup is made with ginger and onion, which are sautéed in oil until fragrant. This adds depth and flavor to the broth.
• Leafy vegetables: Malunggay (moringa) leaves or spinach are the most commonly used leafy vegetables in Chicken Tinola/Tinolang Manok. These add a nutritious boost to the soup and complement the flavors of the other ingredients.

The health benefits of Chicken Tinola/Tinolang Manok are numerous. The soup is high in protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to any diet. Additionally, the ginger and onion in the broth offer anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Moreover, Chicken Tinola/Tinolang Manok is a fantastic comfort food that can provide solace and aid in treating common illnesses like colds and flu.

Cooking Chicken Tinola/Tinolang Manok Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken, cut into serving pieces
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 thumbs ginger, peeled and sliced
• 1 green papaya or chayote, peeled and cut into small wedges
• 1-2 cups malunggay (moringa) leaves or spinach
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce or salt, or to taste
• 6-8 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil (optional)

Cooking Chicken Tinola/Tinolang Manok Recipe is simple and easy to do. Here are the basic steps:

1. Prepare the chicken. Cut the chicken into serving pieces and remove any excess fat. Rinse the chicken thoroughly and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Sauté the aromatics. In a large pot or dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and ginger until fragrant and onions become translucent.
3. Add chicken to the pot. Sauté the chicken in the pot for a few minutes until it starts to brown. This will add more flavor to the soup.
4. Add water and bring to a boil. Pour enough water into the pot to cover the chicken pieces. Bring the water to a boil and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Add vegetables. Add the green papaya or chayote to the pot and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
6. Add leafy vegetables. Add the malunggay (moringa) leaves or spinach to the pot and let it cook for a minute or two.
7. Season with salt and pepper. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Seasoning and Marinating Chicken

Seasoning and marinating the chicken before cooking can add more flavor to the dish. Here are some tips on how to do it:

1. Season with salt and pepper. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper before cooking. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
2. Use spices. Mix your favorite spices such as cumin, coriander, or turmeric with salt and pepper and rub it onto the chicken. This will add more depth to the flavor.
3. Marinate the chicken. Marinating the chicken in a mixture of acid (vinegar or lemon juice), oil, and spices can tenderize the meat and add more flavor. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
4. Don’t over-marinate. Marinating the chicken for too long can break down the proteins and make the meat mushy. 30 minutes to 24 hours is the ideal marinating time.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which is better in Tinola, papaya, or sayote? Both green papaya and chayote are great options for Tinola. They both add a subtle sweetness and texture to the soup. It really depends on your personal preference.
2. What is Tinola in English? Tinola in English means chicken soup with papaya or chayote.
3. What is the best partner for Tinolang Manok? Tinolang Manok is best served with steamed rice.
4. Is Tinola a healthy food? Yes, Tinola is a healthy food. It is high in protein, vitamins, and minerals, and the ginger and onion in the broth provide anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
5. What country is Tinola from? Tinola is a traditional Filipino dish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chicken Tinola/Tinolang Manok is a delicious and healthy Filipino dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. By including this dish in your culinary repertoire, you can experience the wonderful flavors and health benefits that it has to offer. With the basic steps of cooking and seasoning tips provided in this article, you can now prepare a delicious and flavorful Tinola dish for your family and friends.