Tinola – Simple Filipino Chicken Soup for Home Cooks

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What is Tinola?

Tinola is a classic Filipino chicken soup made with tender chicken simmered in a ginger-rich broth together with green papaya or sayote and fresh malunggay leaves. This dish offers a clean, comforting flavor profile that highlights the natural taste of the chicken. Similar comforting Filipino soups like Nilaga and Chicken Sopas also remain favorites in many homes.

Why Masarap?

Its aroma is warm and gingery, habang ang sabaw ay malinis pero malasa — perfect for cold days or kapag may gusto lang ng something soothing. The chicken becomes tender and juicy, the vegetables absorb the broth beautifully, and the fresh greens add a light, earthy character. Tinola brings that homey lamig-lamig comfort na hinahanap ng maraming Pilipino.

Best Eaten For

Tinola is best enjoyed for lunch or dinner, ideally served piping hot with fresh white rice.

Ingredients

• 1 kg chicken (cut into serving pieces)
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized ginger, sliced
• 1 green papaya or sayote, sliced
• 1–2 long green chilies (siling pansigang)
• 1 cup malunggay leaves or sili leaves
• 6 cups water
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking oil

How to Cook Tinola

1. Sauté ginger, garlic, and onion until fragrant.
2. Add chicken pieces and cook until slightly browned.
3. Pour in water and bring to a boil.
4. Add fish sauce, then simmer until chicken becomes tender.
5. Add papaya or sayote and cook until vegetables soften.
6. Add green chilies and season with salt and pepper.
7. Stir in malunggay leaves, allow them to wilt, then turn off the heat.
8. Serve hot with rice.

Serving Suggestions

Tinola pairs perfectly with warm rice and simple side dishes.
Those who enjoy lighter noodle soups can also try Chicken Sotanghon Soup for another comforting, gingery option.
For readers exploring budget-friendly everyday meals, the Budget Meals Under ₱100 category offers easy and practical cooking ideas.

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 2–3 days.
• Reheat gently to preserve broth clarity and vegetable texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

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