Chicken soup

Chicken soup with vegetables – a recipe full of flavors and tradition

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Chicken soup is an emblematic dish in many culinary cultures, often associated with comfort and nostalgia. This chicken soup recipe with vegetables will bring not only a tasty meal to your table but also a sense of well-being, thanks to its rich flavors and healthy ingredients. Here’s how to prepare it step by step!

Ingredients:

- 3 medium carrots
- 3 bell peppers (you can choose between red, yellow, or green for a colorful look)
- 3 onions
- 4 ripe tomatoes
- 2 large potatoes
- 1 celery root (preferably a young celery for a milder taste)
- 1 parsnip
- 1 fresh lovage (for a fragrant taste, but you can also use dried lovage)
- 1 sour borscht (from Tecuci, but you can also use store-bought borscht)
- 1 packet of Delicat (or other flavored salt, to taste)
- Chicken meat (preferably backs, but you can also use breast or thighs)
- 1 egg (for added creaminess)

Preparation:

1. Boiling the meat: Start by placing the chicken backs in a large pot with water. Let them boil over medium heat for 15 minutes. This step will help extract the flavors from the meat and create a tasty base for the soup.

2. Removing the foam: After boiling, you will notice a foam forming on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove it, ensuring you get a clear and tasty broth.

3. Adding root vegetables: Peel and dice the carrots, celery, and parsnip. Add these vegetables to the pot and let them boil together with the meat for another 5 minutes. These root vegetables will add sweetness and a pleasant texture to the soup.

4. Aromatic vegetables: While the root vegetables are boiling, you can prepare the other vegetables. Chop the onion and bell pepper, then add them to the pot. Peel and chop the potatoes into medium cubes, and add them as well. Let everything boil for 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

5. Preparing the tomato juice: Grate the tomatoes to obtain fresh juice. Add this juice to the pot along with the packet of Delicat. Let it boil for another 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

6. Finishing the soup: With 2 minutes left before turning off the heat, add the borscht. This will add a tangy note to the soup. After it has boiled, turn off the heat and add a beaten egg and chopped fresh lovage. These ingredients will give the soup a creamy appearance and a fresh aroma.

7. Serving: Chicken soup is best served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or croutons. You can sprinkle some fresh lovage on top for an attractive look.

Practical tips:

- Vegetables: You can also add other favorite vegetables, such as zucchini or squash, to customize the recipe.
- Borscht: If you don’t have Tecuci borscht, you can use lemon juice or vinegar to achieve the same tangy note.
- Meat: If you prefer, you can use turkey meat or even a vegetarian version by replacing the meat with mushrooms or tofu.
- Quick version: If you’re in a hurry, you can use cooked meat or chicken broth to reduce cooking time.

Nutritional benefits: Chicken soup is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the vegetables and meat. It is an excellent choice for a healthy meal, helping to strengthen the immune system and providing energy.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can use turkey, beef, or even make a vegetarian version.
- How can I store the soup? The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze it for later consumption.
- What drinks pair well with the soup? A fresh lemonade or a light white wine are excellent choices to complement the meal.

Chicken soup with vegetables is not just a simple dish; it is a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Enjoy every bite and savor the authentic flavors! Bon appétit!