andrejthechef
PhilippinesSoupDinnerGluten-freeDairy-free

Tinolang Manok

A light chicken soup with ginger, green papaya and leafy greens, simmered until gentle and warming.

prep
15 min
cook
35 min
total
50 min
serves
4
level
easy
Tinolang Manok, a dish from Across the Philippines

Tinolang manok is gentle, restorative food in the Philippines, a light chicken soup built on ginger, green papaya and leafy greens, often the dish made for someone who isn't feeling their best.

Browning the ginger and chicken briefly before the broth goes in gives real depth to what stays, overall, a light and simple soup.

Part of our 20 best Filipino recipes list.

method

  1. Heat the oil in a pot, and cook the ginger until fragrant and lightly browned, about 2 to 3 minutes.

  2. Add the onion and garlic, and cook for 5 minutes.

  3. Add the chicken pieces, and cook, turning, until lightly seared on the outside, about 5 to 6 minutes.

  4. Pour in the water or stock and fish sauce, bring to a boil, then lower to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.

  5. Add the green papaya and simmer for another 8 to 10 minutes, until tender.

  6. Add the leafy greens in the last 2 minutes, just long enough to wilt.

  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

chef's tips

  • Browning the ginger and chicken briefly before adding liquid builds real flavor into what is otherwise a simple, light broth.
  • Green papaya softens quickly and takes on the broth's flavor well; a ripe papaya is far too sweet and wrong for this dish.
  • Chili leaves have a mild, slightly peppery flavor that's traditional here, though spinach or another tender leafy green works as a substitute.
  • Tinolang manok is considered gentle, restorative food in the Philippines, often made for someone who is not feeling well.