Hearty Bokchoy Chicken Soup
- 1/2 ounce (approximately 1/2 cup) dried shiitake or mixed dried mushrooms
- 3 cups hot water
- 1 tablespoon peanut or canola oil
- 2 cups chopped onion
- 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 6 slices fresh ginger, about 1/8 inch thick
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2– to 3-inch cinnamon stick
- 1 star anise
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 bulb fennel, core removed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 green onions, white parts cut into 2-inch segments and greens diced, kept separate
- 1 pound bok choy, preferably baby, white stems sliced lengthwise and green leaves chopped, separated
- 2 cups mung bean sprouts (about 4 ounces)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil, toasted
- Lime wedges for serving