Authentic Tinola Recipe: A Filipino Comfort Dish

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cut into serving pieces
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-inch piece of ginger, sliced thinly
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 green papayas, peeled and cut into wedges
• 2 cups water spinach (kangkong) or bok choy, washed
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce (patis)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1-2 green chili peppers (optional, for spice)

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat, then sauté the sliced onion, minced garlic, and ginger until fragrant and the onions become translucent.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are lightly browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 30 minutes.
4. Add the green papaya wedges to the pot and continue simmering until they are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Stir in the fish sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add the green chili peppers for a hint of heat.
6. Finally, add the water spinach or bok choy to the pot and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted.