Pineapple Bitter Gourd Chicken Soup is a delightful and unique blend of sweet, savory, and bitter flavors. This nourishing soup combines the tropical sweetness of fresh pineapple with the slight bitterness of bitter gourd, balanced by tender, bone-in chicken pieces. The pineapple adds a natural sweetness that mellows the bitterness of the gourd, while the chicken provides a rich, savory depth to the broth.
Infused with ginger for warmth and goji berries for a subtle sweetness, this soup is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. It’s a refreshing dish that’s both comforting and light, making it perfect for a family dinner or when you’re craving something soothing yet different.
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WHAT IS BITTER GOURD?
Bitter gourd, also known as bitter melon, is a tropical fruit commonly used in Asian cuisine. It has a distinctive bitter taste and is prized for its health benefits, including aiding digestion, improving blood sugar levels, and boosting immunity. Its unique flavor is often balanced with other ingredients in soups and stir-fries.
Characteristics:
- Appearance: It has an elongated, oblong shape with tapering ends. The surface of bitter gourd is covered in ridges and has a warty, bumpy texture. When unripe, it is a bright green, which darkens as it matures. Some varieties may turn yellow or orange as they ripen.
- Taste: As the name suggests, bitter gourd is famously bitter. Its sharp, tangy bitterness is strongest when raw but mellows slightly during cooking, especially when paired with other ingredients like pineapple or sweeteners.
- Varieties: There are several varieties of bitter gourd, ranging from small and slender to large and wider types. The Indian variety tends to be darker and more bitter, while the Chinese variety is lighter green and milder.
- Nutritional Value: It is a low-calorie vegetable, rich in vitamins A, C, and folate. Bitter gourd also contains high levels of antioxidants and bioactive compounds, contributing to its health-promoting properties.
- Culinary Use: Bitter gourd can be used in a variety of dishes, often sliced, stuffed, or used in soups and stir-fries. Cooking techniques such as salting or blanching are sometimes employed to reduce its bitterness.
WHAT IS THE BENEFITS OF PINEAPPLE BITTER GOURD CHICKEN SOUP?
This soup combines nutritious ingredients like chicken, pineapple, and bitter gourd, offering a delicious and health-boosting meal. Here are its key benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Bitter gourd is a powerful antioxidant, helping to neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation.
- Supports Digestive Health: Bitter gourd is known for aiding digestion and reducing bloating. Pineapple adds enzymes that promote healthy digestion as well.
- Improves Immunity: Both bitter gourd and pineapple are rich in vitamin C, boosting immune function and protecting against illnesses.
- Hydration and Detox: The soup’s high water content helps keep the body hydrated and supports kidney function by promoting detoxification.
- Helps with Blood Sugar Regulation: Bitter gourd is known for its ability to lower blood sugar levels, making it a good addition to a balanced diet.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPES?
- Unique Flavor Blend: The combination of sweet pineapple and slightly bitter gourd creates a harmonious balance, while chicken adds savory depth.
- Nutritional Boost: This soup is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that benefit the body in various ways, from boosting immunity to supporting digestion.
- Comforting and Nourishing: Perfect for a light dinner, this soup is both satisfying and hydrating, especially during warmer months.
- Easy to Prepare: The steps are simple and straightforward, making it accessible for all levels of home cooks.
- Versatile: You can enjoy it as a light meal on its own or pair it with rice or steamed vegetables for a more complete dinner.
INGREDIENTS AND SUBSTITUTES
Ingredient quantities please refer to the recipes card (Click here)!
- Chicken (Bone-in Pieces): Provides protein and a savory base for the soup. If unavailable, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks.
- Bitter Gourd: Adds a subtle bitterness that pairs well with pineapple’s sweetness. If too bitter for your taste, you can soak it in salted water before cooking.
- Fresh Pineapple: Adds sweetness and a burst of tropical flavor. If unavailable, canned pineapple chunks can be used, but be mindful of the sweetness level.
- Soy Sauce & Fish Sauce: These sauces add depth and umami. You can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option, and omit fish sauce for a vegetarian version.
- Ginger: Adds warmth and helps balance the bitterness. Fresh turmeric can be used as a substitute.
- Goji Berries: Adds a sweet, slightly tart flavor and extra antioxidants. Red dates or raisins can be used as alternatives.
These substitutes ensure you can adapt the recipe to what you have on hand while maintaining a flavorful and satisfying soup.
RECIPES TIPS
- Bitter Gourd Preparation: To reduce its bitterness, soak the bitter gourd slices in salted water for 10-15 minutes before cooking, then rinse.
- Enhance Sweetness: If your pineapple is not sweet enough, you can add a small amount of honey or sugar to balance the flavors.
- Stock Cube: Adjust the seasoning with stock cubes, but be mindful of the salt level, as soy sauce and fish sauce already contribute saltiness.
- Pineapple Ripeness: For the best flavor, use a ripe, juicy pineapple, which will complement the bitterness of the gourd perfectly.
- Cooking Time: Simmer the soup slowly to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender.
STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Full recipes and Thermomix® instructions please refer to the recipes card (Click here)!
- Prepare the Ingredients: Cut the bitter gourd in half lengthwise, remove the seeds, and slice into chunks. Set aside.Peel and cut the pineapple into chunks.Prepare the chicken pieces and other ingredients.
- Sauté Ginger and Chicken: Heat 10 g of cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat.Add 2 slices of ginger and sauté until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).Add the chicken pieces to the pot and lightly brown them on all sides.Season the chicken with 1 tsp soy sauce and 1 tsp fish sauce.
- Add Pineapple and Water: Once the chicken is slightly browned, add 150 g pineapple chunks and stir for a minute or two to release the sweetness.Pour in 1500 g of water and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add Bitter Gourd: After simmering, add the bitter gourd chunks to the soup.Continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the bitter gourd is tender but not overly soft.
- Season the Soup: Add ½ stock cube, 1 pinch of white pepper, and adjust the seasoning to taste with salt or additional soy sauce if needed.
- Add Goji Berries: In the final 2 minutes of cooking, add 15 g of goji berries to the soup.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. The pineapple adds a natural sweetness that balances the bitterness of the gourd, and the chicken provides a comforting savory flavor. Enjoy!
This step-by-step guide will help you create a flavorful, nutritious soup with tender lotus root, smooth arrowroot, and crunchy peanuts.
WHAT ELSE TO SERVE WITH ?
Here are a few dishes that pair well with this soup:
- Steamed Rice: A simple bowl of jasmine or brown rice to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Stir-fried Vegetables: Lightly stir-fried bok choy or spinach complements the flavors of the soup.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea like chrysanthemum tea to round out the meal.
MADE AHEAD INSTRUCTIONS
Made-Ahead Instructions for Lotus Root and Arrowroot Soup with Peanuts:
- Prepare and Cook: Follow the recipe instructions to make the soup. Allow it to cool to room temperature once cooking is complete.
- Storage:
- Refrigeration: Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Use a freezer-safe container, leaving space at the top for expansion. Label and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating:
- From the Refrigerator: Reheat gently in a pot over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a bit of water or broth if needed.
- From the Freezer: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Final Adjustments: After reheating, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Fresh garnishes can be added just before serving.
These instructions help maintain the soup’s flavor and texture, making it a convenient option for busy days.
STORAGE & REHEATING
Storage and Reheating Instructions:
Refrigeration: Cool soup to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: Cool soup to room temperature. Store in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion. Label and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating:
- From the Refrigerator: Reheat in a pot over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add water or broth if the soup has thickened.
- From the Freezer: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add water or broth if needed.
- Additional Tips: Avoid boiling when reheating to prevent overcooking. Adjust the soup’s consistency by adding more liquid if it has thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning after reheating.
RECIPES FAQS
Can I use other meats?
Yes, chicken thighs, pork ribs, or even firm tofu can be substituted for the chicken pieces.
How do I reduce the bitterness of bitter gourd?
Soak the slices in salted water before cooking, or blanch them for a minute to reduce the bitterness.
Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, but adjust the sweetness by choosing pineapple packed in juice rather than syrup.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker or pressure cooker?
Yes, for a slow cooker, cook on low for 4-6 hours. For a pressure cooker, cook for about 10-15 minutes on high pressure.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Certainly! Carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added. Adjust cooking time based on their size and density.
How long can I store leftovers, and how should I store them?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat gently to maintain texture and flavor.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Reheat gently before serving.
What garnishes work well with this soup?
Chopped spring onions, cilantro, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds add fresh flavor and color. You can also serve it with steamed rice or noodles.
Can I use other types of broth besides chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth or water can be used as a base, but they will alter the flavor.
Can I adjust the portion size of the recipes?
You can adjust the recipe by clicking the serving size in the recipe in recipes card to your liking!
If you can find the exact portion that you like, you can, also, adjust this in manual mode. Make sure that the cooking times and temperatures have been adjusted for different quantities of ingredients. Even preparation time (such as for cutting) may be different than in the original recipe. Please do not pass the max line indicated inside of the mixing bowl. The capacity of the mixing bowl is 2.2 liters.
This recipes is compatible with which model of Thermomix®?
This recipes suitable for TM31 / TM5 / TM6
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Thermomix® TM6RM7,488.00
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RECIPES CARD
Pineapple Bitter Gourd Chicken Soup
Pineapple Bitter Gourd Chicken Soup is a delightful and unique blend of sweet, savory, and bitter flavors. This nourishing soup combines the tropical sweetness of fresh pineapple with the slight bitterness of bitter gourd, balanced by tender, bone-in chicken pieces. The pineapple adds a natural sweetness that mellows the bitterness of the gourd, while the chicken provides a rich, savory depth to the broth.
Add 10 g of cooking oil and 2 slices of ginger into the Thermomix mixing bowl. Sauté for 3 minutes | Varoma | Speed 1 until fragrant.
Add 500 g chicken pieces to the bowl. Cook for 5 minutes | 100°C | ⤺ Speed 1. Add 1 tsp soy sauce and 1 tsp fish sauce (optional) during the last minute.
Add 150 g pineapple chunks and 1500 g water to the bowl. Add ½ stock cube and a pinch of white pepper. Cook for 25 minutes | 100°C | ⤺ Speed Soft.
Add the bitter gourd chunks to the soup. Continue cooking for 10 minutes | 100°C | ⤺ Speed Spoon until the bitter gourd is tender.
Add 15 g goji berries and let them sit in the hot soup for a few minutes before serving. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Ingredients
Directions
Add 10 g of cooking oil and 2 slices of ginger into the Thermomix mixing bowl. Sauté for 3 minutes | Varoma | Speed 1 until fragrant.
Add 500 g chicken pieces to the bowl. Cook for 5 minutes | 100°C | ⤺ Speed 1. Add 1 tsp soy sauce and 1 tsp fish sauce (optional) during the last minute.
Add 150 g pineapple chunks and 1500 g water to the bowl. Add ½ stock cube and a pinch of white pepper. Cook for 25 minutes | 100°C | ⤺ Speed Soft.
Add the bitter gourd chunks to the soup. Continue cooking for 10 minutes | 100°C | ⤺ Speed Spoon until the bitter gourd is tender.
Add 15 g goji berries and let them sit in the hot soup for a few minutes before serving. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
