Why Eat Chicken with Lemon Leaves?
According to Master Herbalist Bùi Đắc Sáng (from the Institute of Science and Technology, Hanoi Oriental Medicine Association), the combination of chicken and lemon leaves not only enhances the flavor of the dish but also has medicinal properties.
In Oriental medicine, chicken meat is known as ‘kê nhục’ and is considered a warming and sweet ingredient. Lemon leaves, on the other hand, have a sweet and pungent taste with warming properties. They are believed to help resolve and eliminate phlegm, treat coughs, and possess antibacterial qualities.
“Chicken skin can cause allergies and harbors bacteria. Some people even suffer from food poisoning when consuming chicken that is not properly prepared,” shared Master Herbalist Bùi Đắc Sáng. “Sprinkling lemon leaves on chicken not only adds a delightful aroma and reduces the greasiness of the skin but also has a high antibacterial effect, detoxifying the chicken skin and preventing allergies.”
Additionally, in Oriental medicine, there is a very effective remedy for those who suffer from food poisoning or allergies after consuming chicken or chicken skin. By boiling lemon leaves and drinking the water, symptoms can be alleviated.
“As we can see, the combination of lemon leaves and chicken is not merely about enhancing the flavor and appearance but also has medicinal value. However, only a small amount of lemon leaves should be used, as too much can make the dish bitter,” advised Mr. Sáng.
Sprinkling a few delicate lemon leaves on the chicken dish not only makes it more appealing but also adds a unique flavor. When enjoying chicken pho, the bones are removed, and the meat is cut into bite-sized pieces. To make the broth, chicken bones are simmered with a few sá sùng (a type of sea worm) to enhance the sweetness, along with ginger, grilled onions, and roasted cumin seeds. When preparing the broth, the pot should be uncovered, and the heat should be kept low to ensure a clear, non-cloudy soup. Just before serving the chicken pho, a few finely chopped lemon leaves are sprinkled on top.
What Are the Benefits of Combining Lemon Leaves with Chicken?
In Oriental medicine, chicken (kê nhục) is considered non-toxic, sweet, and warming. It is believed to strengthen the body, benefit the marrow, and provide nourishment when combined with other ingredients appropriately.
Lemon leaves, on the other hand, are rich in essential oils, imparting a pleasant aroma and strong antibacterial properties. With their warming nature and ability to resolve phlegm, they are often used along with other leaves for steam inhalation, which is beneficial for the body.
Consuming chicken with lemon leaves can also help prevent and reduce toothaches effectively. However, it is important not to overuse lemon leaves, as their bitterness can diminish the sweetness of the chicken, affecting the overall taste of the dish.
In conclusion, chicken and lemon leaves are a match made in culinary heaven. They not only enhance the flavor and appeal of dishes but also offer a host of health benefits, including preventing tooth decay, strengthening the marrow, and providing relief from colds, coughs, and aches.