If you’re craving a bowl of warm, comforting goodness that feels like a hug in food form, this Filipino Arroz Caldo Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a fragrant and hearty chicken rice porridge, simmered to silky perfection with ginger and garlic, creating layers of flavor that soothe the soul and satisfy your appetite. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want a cozy meal by the bowlful, this classic Filipino chicken porridge is sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Filipino Arroz Caldo Recipe lies in its simplicity, with a handful of fresh, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s the aromatic ginger adding warmth, the tender chicken imparting richness, or the garlic and fish sauce deepening the savory notes.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: This is the base for sautéing, giving the aromatics a smooth start without overpowering flavors.
- 1 small onion (chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth that balances the spices perfectly.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Crucial for that unmistakable savory kick that lifts the whole dish.
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger (peeled and sliced into strips): Brings a fresh zing and comforting warmth to every spoonful.
- 1 pound chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin removed): Chicken bones infuse the broth with rich flavor, making the porridge truly satisfying.
- 1 cup jasmine or glutinous rice (rinsed): The heart of the dish, it transforms into a creamy, luscious base as it cooks.
- 6 cups chicken broth: The liquid that melds all flavors together while keeping the porridge smooth.
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce: Adds an authentic Filipino salty, umami punch that sets this recipe apart.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning to enhance and balance the natural flavors.
- 2 hard-boiled eggs (halved): Classic garnish that adds texture and extra protein to your bowl.
- Chopped green onions for garnish: Offers a fresh, vibrant touch in both color and taste.
- Toasted garlic for garnish: Crispy and fragrant, it adds a delightful crunch and extra garlic goodness.
- Calamansi or lemon wedges for serving: A squeeze brightens the porridge with a hint of citrusy zing.
How to Make Filipino Arroz Caldo Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and ginger strips. Sauté them until they’re wonderfully fragrant and softened, filling your kitchen with an amazing aroma that signals comfort is on its way.
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Add the chicken thighs or drumsticks to the pot. Cook them until they’re lightly browned on all sides. This not only locks in juices but also builds the base flavor that will make your arroz caldo taste like it’s been simmering all day.
Step 3: Add the Rice
Stir in the rinsed rice, coating each grain with the aromatic mixture. This little step ensures that every bite is bursting with that signature garlicky, gingery goodness Filipino Arroz Caldo Recipe is loved for.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth and fish sauce, then bring it all to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently. Cook for about 30 to 40 minutes while stirring occasionally, giving the rice time to become tender and the mixture to thicken into a creamy porridge. If it gets too thick, feel free to add more broth or water.
Step 5: Season and Finish
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remember, a well-seasoned broth is key to that perfect, comforting bowl. Once ready, ladle the porridge into warm bowls, preparing for the garnishing stage.
How to Serve Filipino Arroz Caldo Recipe
Garnishes
The garnishes really bring your Filipino Arroz Caldo Recipe to life. Place halved hard-boiled eggs on top for creaminess and protein. Sprinkle chopped green onions for freshness, add toasted garlic for crunch, and complete the experience with a small wedge of calamansi or lemon. A squeeze of citrus cuts through the richness and brightens every bite.
Side Dishes
Filipino Arroz Caldo Recipe pairs perfectly with simple, complementary sides like fried or grilled fish, steamed vegetables, or even a side of lumpia for some crunch. This makes your meal well-rounded, balancing textures and flavors effortlessly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small clay pots or traditional Filipino earthenware. You can also top the porridge with other toppings like fried shallots, chopped cilantro, or a drizzle of sesame oil for an elevated aroma. Presentation can turn a humble bowl into a special occasion centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Filipino Arroz Caldo Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because of the rice’s creamy texture, it tends to thicken when chilled, which makes reheating an important step.
Freezing
You can freeze this chicken rice porridge for up to a month. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and allow for some extra liquid, as the rice expands and thickens upon thawing. Keep in mind that freezing might slightly change the texture, but the flavors will still be delicious.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the porridge and stir often until hot and creamy again. This will bring back the comforting, silky texture that makes Filipino Arroz Caldo Recipe so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs or breasts will cook faster and are easier to eat, but using bone-in chicken adds a deeper, richer flavor to the broth, making your arroz caldo even more flavorful.
Is it necessary to use fish sauce?
Fish sauce is traditional and adds a unique umami kick, but if you’re not a fan, you can substitute it with soy sauce or simply increase the salt slightly. Just remember, it’s part of what gives this Filipino Arroz Caldo Recipe its authentic taste.
What type of rice works best?
Jasmine or glutinous rice are preferred choices. Jasmine rice results in a fragrant, slightly fluffy porridge, while glutinous rice makes it thicker and stickier. Both will give you that comforting texture essential to arroz caldo.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the chicken. You can add mushrooms or tofu for protein and richness, but keep the ginger, garlic, and fish sauce (or vegetarian alternatives) to maintain some of the traditional flavors.
How spicy is this dish?
Filipino Arroz Caldo Recipe is gentle and warming without heat. However, adding a side of chili garlic sauce or fresh sliced chili peppers can give it a spicy kick if you prefer some heat.
Final Thoughts
This Filipino Arroz Caldo Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a bowlful of heartwarming tradition and cozy flavors that speak straight to your soul. Don’t hesitate to dive in and customize it with your favorite garnishes or sides. Once you make it, you’ll understand why this humble chicken rice porridge is a beloved comfort food across Filipino households. So grab your pot and get cooking — your new favorite comfort dish awaits.
Print
Filipino Arroz Caldo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Filipino
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Filipino Arroz Caldo is a comforting chicken and rice porridge infused with aromatic garlic, ginger, and onions, simmered to a creamy texture. This hearty, gluten-free main course is traditionally garnished with hard-boiled eggs, toasted garlic, green onions, and served with tangy calamansi or lemon wedges, making it a perfect meal for chilly days or when you need a warm, soothing dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled and sliced into strips
- 1 pound chicken thighs or drumsticks, bone-in, skin removed
- 1 cup jasmine or glutinous rice, rinsed
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnishes
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, halved
- Chopped green onions
- Toasted garlic
- Calamansi or lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Heat the Aromatics: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced ginger until fragrant and softened, which brings out their flavors.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs or drumsticks to the pot and cook until they are lightly browned on all sides. This step helps to seal in flavor and adds depth to the broth.
- Add the Rice: Stir in the rinsed rice, coating it well in the aromatic mixture of garlic, ginger, and onions to infuse flavor throughout.
- Simmer the Porridge: Pour in the chicken broth and fish sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 30 to 40 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and the mixture thickens to a porridge-like consistency. Add extra broth or water as needed to reach your desired thickness.
- Season the Porridge: Taste and season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Serve: Ladle the arroz caldo into bowls. Top each serving with halved hard-boiled eggs, chopped green onions, and toasted garlic. Serve with calamansi or lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the porridge for a bright, tangy contrast.
Notes
- Boneless chicken can be used for quicker preparation, though bone-in pieces add more depth of flavor to the broth.
- For a richer and nuttier aroma, add a dash of sesame oil before serving.
