Chicken borscht with tocmaji

Chicken borscht with homemade noodles - A warm recipe from the heart of tradition

When it comes to dishes that remind us of childhood and family meals, chicken borscht with homemade noodles is among everyone's favorites. This rich and flavorful soup is not just a simple recipe, but also a story that has been passed down through generations. The fat country chicken, fresh vegetables, and homemade noodles make this borscht a perfect choice for cool days or for moments when we want to indulge in a healthy and comforting dish.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 fat country chicken (approximately 1.5 - 2 kg)
- 1 onion
- 1-2 carrots
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 bunch of dill or parsley
- 300 ml borscht from fermentation
- 1 egg
- 300 g white flour
- salt, to taste
- hot pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
- sour cream (optional, for serving)

Step by step for a perfect chicken borscht

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the chicken into suitable portions. It is essential to use a country chicken, as its meat is much tastier and provides an unmistakable flavor to your borscht. Place the pieces of meat in a large pot with cold water and bring to a boil.

2. Skimming: Once the water starts to boil, make sure to remove the foam that forms on the surface. This step is very important, as the foam can affect the final appearance of the borscht. Let the meat boil for 30-40 minutes over medium heat, covering the pot with a lid.

3. Preparing the vegetables: In the meantime, wash and chop the vegetables. Finely chop the onion, dice the carrots and red bell pepper, and you can cut the tomatoes into quarters or cubes, depending on your preference. When the meat is almost cooked, add the vegetables to the pot and let them boil together with the meat for 20 minutes, still covered.

4. Preparing the noodles: Now it's time to prepare the noodles. In a bowl, mix the flour with an egg and a pinch of salt, then gradually add water until you obtain a firm dough. Knead the dough well and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Then roll out a thin sheet of dough and cut it into thin strips, resembling noodles. This is the secret to getting perfect homemade noodles!

5. Final boiling: When the vegetables are almost cooked, add the noodles to the pot and let them boil together with the other ingredients for about 10 minutes. At this point, add salt to taste and the borscht to give it that specific acidity.

6. Finishing the dish: After everything is cooked, turn off the heat and sprinkle the chopped dill or parsley on top. This step not only gives a nice appearance to the borscht but also adds a fresh aroma.

7. Serving: Chicken borscht with homemade noodles is served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top, and for those who prefer a bit of spice, add a hot pepper on the side. It is a dish that is appreciated by all and brings a touch of warmth to every plate.

Useful tips

- Choosing the chicken: Prefer country chickens, as they have firmer meat and richer flavor. Free-range chickens, fed naturally, are the best choice.
- The borscht: If you don't have fermented borscht, you can use tomato juice or apple cider vinegar as an alternative, although the taste will be different.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, to vary the flavor of the borscht.
- Health: This borscht is rich in proteins, vitamins, and antioxidants, with a moderate calorie content, ideal for a healthy meal.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use chicken meat?: Yes, but the taste will be different. Chicken provides a deeper flavor.
- What other spices can I add?: You can experiment with herbs like thyme or basil.
- How can I preserve the borscht?: You can keep the borscht in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 2-3 days.

By trying this recipe, you will discover not only a delicious dish but also the joy of cooking something traditional that brings the family together around the table. Chicken borscht with homemade noodles is more than just a simple soup - it is a culinary experience that combines flavors and memories, making each spoonful full of warmth and comfort. Enjoy it with love, alongside your loved ones!