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Filipino arroz caldo is a comforting and hearty rice porridge that is popular in the Philippines, especially during colder months or as a comfort food during rainy days. It is similar to congee or rice porridge found in other Asian cuisines but has its own distinct Filipino flavors.

Here are the key ingredients and characteristics of Filipino arroz caldo:

1. Rice: It is made with glutinous rice (also known as sticky rice) or regular rice cooked until soft and porridge-like in consistency.
2. Chicken: Typically, arroz caldo is made with chicken pieces (often bone-in for added flavor). The chicken is simmered in the broth until tender and then shredded or cut into smaller pieces.
3. Broth: The base of arroz caldo is a flavorful broth made with ginger, garlic, and sometimes onions. This broth is what gives the dish its aromatic and comforting qualities.
4. Seasonings: It is seasoned with fish sauce (patis) or salt for savory flavor, and sometimes with pepper or calamansi (Filipino lime) for a hint of tanginess.
5. Toppings and Garnishes: Common toppings include fried garlic, chopped green onions or scallions, hard-boiled eggs, and sometimes fried tofu or crispy fried shallots.

Arroz caldo is often served hot, especially during breakfast or as a midday snack. It is known not only for its comforting taste but also for its ability to warm you up, making it a beloved dish in Filipino cuisine.

Creating a keto-friendly version of Filipino Chicken Arroz Caldo involves adjusting the traditional recipe to reduce carbohydrates while maintaining its rich and comforting flavors.

Here’s a recipe for Keto Filipino Chicken Arroz Caldo that uses cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice:

Keto Filipino Arroz Caldo Soup (with cauliflower rice)

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into small florets
• 4 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
• 1/2 cup coconut cream (from a can of full-fat coconut milk)
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon coconut aminos (or soy sauce/tamari if not strictly keto)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnishes: sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, fried garlic (for non-keto), hard-boiled eggs (sliced), lime or calamansi wedges

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

• Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
• Cut the cauliflower into small florets, similar in size to rice grains.

Sauté Aromatics:

• Heat olive oil or coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add minced ginger and garlic, and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
• Add chopped onion and continue sautéing until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Cook Chicken:

• Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they start to brown slightly, about 5 minutes.

Simmer the Soup:

• Pour in the chicken broth and coconut cream. Stir well to combine.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Add Cauliflower Rice:

• Add the cauliflower florets to the pot. Stir to combine.
• Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender but still slightly firm (al dente), resembling the texture of rice.

Season the Soup:

• Stir in fish sauce and coconut aminos (or soy sauce/tamari). Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve:

• Ladle the Cauliflower Arroz Caldo into bowls.
• Garnish with sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and optionally, a squeeze of lime or calamansi juice.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Total Fat: 20g
• Total Carbohydrates: 9g (Net Carbs: 6g)
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 23g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

This Keto/Low-Carb Cauliflower Arroz Caldo soup is a flavorful and comforting dish that captures the essence of traditional Filipino cuisine while fitting into a keto or low-carb lifestyle. It’s perfect for a satisfying meal on a chilly evening or any time you crave a hearty, warm soup.