Chicken soup for the soul at Modu samgyetang

Samgyetang first made its appearance in 1917, in a cookbook under the name gyesamtang which means chicken ginseng soup. somehow along the way, the name changed to samgyetang with emphasis on ginseng (sam) instead, in the 60s.

The soup a part of traditional Korean cuisine that highlights health, vitality, and restorative properties, and was once only available for the rich and royalty, given how ginseng was such a special ingredient.

To celebrate Alice’s birthday, we made the trip to the Modu Samgyetang TRX which started in Singapore, touted as the Hermes of Samgyetang.

When it first opened in November, the queue extended almost to the lifts. Thankfully, we only waited 10mins to be seated this time. Inspired by the traditional hanok, the decor is heavy on timber frames and furniture. The action is around the central kitchen where diners can see the food being prepared. But we were grateful to be seated at a cozy corner that was cooler and quieter.

We ordered two sets – Hanbang traditional herbal samgyetang and Perilla Seed Samgyetang. Each set came with fresh Kimchi and minari salad, and some glutinous rice. We also had tofu with seaweed, and minari pancakes for sides. 

The Hanbang traditional was samgyetang in its purest form, clear, subtle and nourishing. The broth was boiled down for 12 hours down to its bones and collagen, then another 2 more as it got infused with various herbs and flavours. The chicken was also stuffed with some rice and more ginseng. We enjoyed this, but in comparison to the Perilla Seed version, the taste was so subtle, it seemed almost bland. For palates used to robust strong flavours, the Perilla Seed broth was a more popular option, creamy, rich and thicker, more like gravy than soup. Loved this! 

Other options include Signature Collagen, Black Chicken and Spicy Herbal.

Priced from RM52 onwards for a bowl, 2 or 3 pax can easily share. Plus the side dishes, it’s already a full meal. But if you follow Korean-style, then it’s one bowl per person which to me, was really too much chicken to eat in one sitting, even though it’s smaller than our usual chooks! Otherwise you can opt for the meal set which comes with 2 bowls, plus side dish, dessert and tea. 

Next round, I’m eyeing the collagen samgyetang as I’m told that’s another winner! Make your way downtown, it’s worth the train ride! There are a few other branches opening in Petaling Jaya – one in 1 Utama Shopping Mall and another in KLCG Mall, Mont Kiara so those on this side of town have nearer options.

Add: Lot L2T.04.0, Level 2, The Exchange TRX, Persiaran TRX, Imbi, Kuala Lumpur. hp: 011-7575 8000