26
Aug

Comfort in a Bowl: Gut-Friendly Lugaw (Arroz Caldo) Recipe

When your stomach feels unsettled or you simply crave a warm, soothing meal, nothing beats a comforting bowl of lugaw, also known as arroz caldo. This rice porridge is more than just a comfort food — it’s also gentle on the gut, easy to digest, and packed with healing benefits.

At Alternative Health Care Concepts, we often remind our clients that nutrition plays an important role in gut balance. Pairing comforting meals like lugaw with holistic care such as acupuncture in Studio City or acupuncture in Burbank can provide deep support for digestion and overall wellness.

Whether served plain as a simple rice porridge or enriched with chicken for extra nourishment, arroz caldo is a staple in Filipino households — especially when someone needs a little TLC.

Why Lugaw is Good for Your Gut

  1. Soft and Easy to Digest – Slow-cooked rice becomes creamy, making it gentle on the stomach.
  2. Ginger Power – Fresh ginger not only adds flavor but also helps reduce bloating, nausea, and indigestion.
  3. Customizable – Keep it light (plain arroz caldo) or add chicken and toppings for a nutrient-rich, comforting bowl.

Ingredients (4 servings)

  1. 1 cup uncooked rice (traditionally jasmine rice or sticky rice)
  2. 6 cups water or chicken broth
  3. 2 tbsp ginger, peeled and sliced thin
  4. 3 cloves garlic, minced
  5. 1 medium onion, chopped
  6. 2 tbsp cooking oil
  7. 1–2 pieces chicken leg or thigh (optional, for arroz caldo version)
  8. 2 tbsp fish sauce or salt (adjust to taste)
  9. Ground black pepper, to taste
  10. Optional toppings: sliced boiled egg, scallions, fried garlic, calamansi, or a drizzle of sesame oil.

Directions

  1. Prepare the Base
     Heat oil in a pot. Sauté garlic, onion, and ginger until fragrant.
  2. Cook the Chicken (optional)
     Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
  3. Simmer the Rice
     Add uncooked rice, stir to coat with aromatics.
    Pour in water or broth, then bring to a boil.
  4. Slow-Cook Until Creamy
     Reduce to low heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally so rice doesn’t stick.
    Cook until rice is soft and porridge-like (about 30–40 minutes). Add more water/broth if too thick.
  5. Season and Serve
     Add fish sauce or salt, adjust pepper to taste.
    Serve hot with your choice of toppings.

Serving Ideas

  • Keep it plain for an easy-to-digest, gut-friendly version.
  • Add boiled egg and chicken for protein and comfort.
  • A squeeze of calamansi or lemon brightens the flavor.

Arroz caldo isn’t just food — it’s healing in a bowl. Whether you’re nursing a cold, calming an upset stomach, or simply looking for comfort, this classic recipe delivers both nourishment and warmth.

At Alternative Health Care Concepts, we believe gut health thrives when diet and holistic therapies work together. If you’re experiencing bloating, gas, or recurring stomach issues, acupuncture may help regulate digestion and reduce discomfort.

Whether you’re exploring acupuncture in Toluca Lake, acupuncture in Hollywood, or acupuncture in Sherman Oaks, our team is here to support your journey to better gut and overall health.

✨ Next time your gut needs a little love, cook up some arroz caldo — and consider pairing it with acupuncture for a truly holistic approach.