How to Make Chicken Thukpa – A Warm and Hearty Tibetan Noodle Soup


How to Make Chicken Thukpa – A Warm and Hearty Tibetan Noodle Soup

Chicken Thukpa is a traditional noodle soup that originated in Tibet and is widely popular in Nepal, Bhutan, and the northeastern states of India. It’s a hearty, spicy, and nourishing dish made with noodles, chicken, and lots of vegetables. Perfect for chilly evenings, Chicken Thukpa is a complete meal in a bowl!

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make Chicken Thukpa at home.

Ingredients

For the soup base:

  • 1 cup boneless chicken (shredded or cut into small pieces)
  • 4 cups chicken stock or water
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon ginger (minced)
  • 2 green chilies (slit or chopped)
  • 1 medium tomato (finely chopped)
  • 1 carrot (julienned)
  • ½ cup cabbage (shredded)
  • ½ cup capsicum (thinly sliced)
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
  • Juice of ½ lemon (optional)

For the noodles:

  • 150 grams noodles (egg noodles or wheat noodles)
  • Water for boiling
  • Salt
  • A few drops of oil

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the noodles

  1. Boil water in a large pan. Add a little salt and a few drops of oil.
  2. Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions.
  3. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the chicken

  1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium flame.
  2. Add the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until onions are golden and fragrant.
  3. Add the green chilies and cook for a minute.
  4. Add the chopped tomato and cook until it softens.
  5. Add the chicken pieces and sauté until they turn white.
  6. Add turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.

Step 3: Prepare the soup

  1. Pour in the chicken stock or water.
  2. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10-12 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
  3. Add carrots, cabbage, and capsicum. Simmer for another 4-5 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender but still crunchy.
  4. Stir in soy sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Thukpa

  1. In serving bowls, place a portion of the boiled noodles.
  2. Ladle the hot chicken soup over the noodles.
  3. Garnish with chopped coriander and a dash of lemon juice if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Thukpa hot with chili sauce or pickled radish on the side. It pairs perfectly with momos or just on its own as a comforting one-pot meal.

Tips

  • For extra depth of flavor, add a dash of fish sauce or a pinch of Sichuan pepper.
  • You can use leftover boiled or grilled chicken for a quicker version.
  • Adjust spice levels to your taste by adding more or fewer chilies.

Chicken Thukpa is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. Packed with protein, fresh vegetables, and comforting broth, it's an ideal dish for rainy days or when you're feeling under the weather. Try making it at home and enjoy the flavors of the Himalayas right in your kitchen!

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