We all know the health-promoting benefits of green tea. And we all know how deliciously yummy chicken soup can be. Here we have an awesome recipe incorporating the best of both worlds!

Firstly, for those who may have missed it, let us explain a little about the benefits of green tea. Because let’s face it, why the heck would you add green tea to your chicken soup?

Green tea benefits 101

Neatly packaged in a brown paper bag, our Bondi Beach Tea Co. Organic Matcha Green Tea is a little treat of goodness.

Following are some of the interesting, traditional benefits of matcha green tea.

1. Matcha green tea is an abundant source of antioxidants. Antioxidants seek out and neutralise free radicals in the body. Among a long list, free radicals have been linked with the deterioration of eye health, arthritis, accelerated signs of ageing, and nerve cell damage.
2. Matcha green tea contains catechins which boast antibiotic properties that may boost the immune system.
3. Matcha contains L-theanine, which is an amino acid thought to help enhance mood, focus, and relaxation. Studies on L-theanine demonstrate a potential for neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties too.
4. Matcha leaves undergo a shading process at the end of their growing cycle to boost the levels of chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is a powerful detoxifier which may help to rid the body of metals and toxins.

Check out more information about green tea and matcha on our online blog.

Green tea chicken soup recipe

Chicken soup is an easy dish to throw together. This recipe is both gluten-free and is suitable for a paleo diet.

Ingredients

• 5 litres of chicken broth
• 4 teaspoons of matcha green tea
• 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
• 1 small red onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 sticks of celery, chopped
• 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 chicken breasts, diced into medium-sized chunks
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 teaspoons of Himalayan salt
• 2 teaspoons of freshly ground black pepper

Method

1. Bring the chicken broth to the boil in a large pot then remove from the heat
2. Add the matcha green tea and stir to combine
3. Return the pot to the heat and add the chicken
4. Bring the mixture back to the boil then reduce the heat and simmer slowly for 20 minutes
5. Add the vegetables and remaining ingredients
6. Continue to simmer for a further 20 minutes
7. The chicken should cook and fall apart when done
8. Serve the soup hot with some low carb bread

The green tea chicken soup can be stored in the fridge for four to five days. You can also freeze it in portions for use at a later date.

For more cooking inspiration - here is a recipe for low carb bread that you might like to try.

For a matcha green tea perfect to use with this recipe, grab some Bondi Beach Tea Co. Organic Matcha Green Tea online here.