Chicken soup

Chicken soup is one of those recipes that reminds us of the pleasant moments spent with loved ones, especially on chilly days. It is a comforting dish, full of flavors and nutrition, perfect for warming our hearts and improving our mood. Additionally, chicken soup is versatile, allowing for adaptation based on individual preferences. Let's discover together how to prepare a delicious chicken soup, step by step!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 chicken thighs (preferably with bone, for richer flavor)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 carrots
- 3 potatoes (for added consistency)
- 1 parsnip (optional, but adds a sweet note)
- Salt, pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill)
- Noodles (or homemade noodles, for superior taste)
- 1 chicken broth cube (Knorr or similar)

Preparation:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the vegetables. Wash the onion, carrots, potatoes, and parsnip well. Cut the onion into halves or quarters, the carrots into rounds, and the potatoes into cubes. If you choose to use parsnip, cut it into rounds as well.

2. Preparing the meat: Cut the chicken thighs into four pieces. Wash them well under cold running water. This step is essential to remove impurities and ensure a clear and tasty soup.

3. Boiling the meat: Place the chicken thighs in a large pot, add enough water to cover them, and a tablespoon of salt. Put the pot on low heat and let it boil. During boiling, foam will appear on the surface. Use a spoon to remove this foam so your soup remains clear.

4. Adding the vegetables: After about 20 minutes, add the onion, carrots, and parsnip to the pot. Let them boil together with the chicken to infuse the soup with their flavors.

5. Final boiling: Once the vegetables have begun to soften (about another 10-15 minutes), add the cubed potatoes and let the soup boil for another 10 minutes. Check if the chicken is cooked (the meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bone).

6. Straining the soup: Once all the ingredients are cooked, strain the soup through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove bones and vegetables. You can keep the vegetables to use later in the soup or serve them separately.

7. Cooking the noodles: Put the strained soup back on the heat and add a chicken broth cube to enhance the flavor. When the soup starts to boil, add the noodles and let them cook according to the package instructions. If using homemade noodles, the cooking time will be shorter, so check them constantly.

8. Finalizing the soup: After the noodles are cooked, add the chopped fresh herbs and let the soup sit covered for 5 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Serving:
Serve the soup hot in deep bowls. You can add the cut carrots and potatoes from the soup for a more appealing look. A slice of fresh bread alongside will perfectly complete the meal. This soup pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a warm herbal tea, adding a touch of comfort.

Useful tips:
- For a richer soup: Use chicken with bone, such as thighs or bone-in breast. This will add more flavor and a more pleasant texture.
- Varied vegetables: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, depending on your preferences.
- Homemade noodle chicken soup: If you have time, try making homemade noodles. They are quick to prepare from flour, eggs, and water and are much tastier than store-bought ones.
- Storage: The soup keeps in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Before freezing, make sure to let the soup cool completely.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, and the vegetables add essential vitamins and fiber. Additionally, warm soup is ideal for helping the immune system, especially in cold season.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use turkey meat instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey meat is a healthy and delicious alternative.

2. How can I enhance the flavor of the soup?
Add spices like garlic, ginger, or even a splash of lemon for a more vibrant taste.

3. What can I do with leftover soup?
You can transform leftovers into a sauce for pasta or use them as a base for other soups or stews.

4. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a bit of hot pepper or chili flakes during cooking for an extra kick.

Chicken soup is more than just a dish; it is a warm embrace on a plate. Whether you prepare it for a family meal or to treat yourself, this chicken soup recipe will surely become a favorite. Enjoy!