Stewed Chicken with Codonopsis Root

Stewed Chicken with Codonopsis Root

　　The cross-section of Codonopsis root from Lingchuan features a "five-petal" pattern, rich in oil, free of residue, and contains 1–1.5 times more sugar and medicinal value than ordinary Codonopsis. There’s an old saying among locals: “One five-petal core is stronger than ten pounds of ginseng.” Chefs use this unique local ingredient paired with free-range chicken to stew a nutritious, delicious, and nourishing local specialty — “Stewed Chicken with Codonopsis Root.”

　　 The chicken must be locally raised free-range chicken, also known as grass chicken. Grass chickens feed on green grass, insects, and mixed grains. While foraging, their muscles develop fully, significantly increasing their crude protein content while greatly reducing fat content, resulting in top-quality chicken meat.

　　 One freshly cleaned free-range chicken, four taels of Codonopsis root, and moderate amounts of scallions, ginger, garlic, Sichuan peppercorns, and star anise. Place the ingredients in a clay pot in sequence, add an appropriate amount of water, bring to a boil over high heat, then simmer over low heat. The flavors meld between the broth and ingredients, and between the Codonopsis and chicken. Codonopsis benefits the spleen, boosts qi, and promotes fluid production, while chicken soup is rich in high-quality protein. The combination of Codonopsis’ medicinal value and the tender texture of the free-range chicken elevates the nutritional value of this dish to a great extent. After about an hour, a fragrant aroma wafts through the air, revealing a soup that is rich and savory with tender meat.