How to make Ga Tan

Why cooks start here

Ga Tan is cooked the way herbal shops cooks it — salt judged by hand, fat used generously, and the table set for sharing. This is the home version, written down the way a vietnamese family cook actually puts it on the table.

Ga Tan, a deeply nourishing Vietnamese herbal chicken soup, finds its roots in the bustling herbal shops of Vietnam. Traditionally, it's a dish that brings warmth during cooler months or when one's body needs rejuvenation. Each family has its own version, passed down through generations, with adjustments made by feel rather than measurements. This home-cooked rendition captures the essence of that tradition, offering a comforting embrace in a bowl. Expect a harmonious blend of flavors, where the gentle bitterness of ginseng meets the subtle sweetness of red dates, all rounded by the warmth of ginger. The chicken is tender, infused with the rich, herbaceous broth, inviting you to savor each sip and bite. Generous use of fat and a dash of fine sea salt balance the dish, creating a soothing experience best shared with loved ones around the table.