Chicken soup

Chicken soup with aromatic vegetables

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Chicken soup is a classic dish loved by generations, bringing not only a unique flavor but also a sense of comfort and warmth. This simple and healthy recipe, with accessible ingredients, transforms chicken and vegetables into a delicious soup, perfect for chilly days or moments when you need a soul-soothing experience.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 medium-sized chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 2 large, fresh carrots
- 1 small celery root
- 1 package of noodles (approximately 200 g)
- 2-3 tablespoons of dried parsley
- 1-2 tablespoons of dried lovage
- Salt, pepper to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons of Delikat (or a soup cube, optional)

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by cleaning and washing the chicken well. It is important to use a quality chicken; ideally, choose one that is naturally raised, as it will provide a richer taste to the soup. After washing the chicken, cut it into large pieces to speed up the boiling process.

Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables. Cut the carrots into rounds and the celery root into small cubes. These vegetables not only add flavor to the soup but also contribute to its nutritional value.

Step 2: Boiling the chicken

In a large pot, place the cut chicken along with the carrots and celery. Add enough water to cover all the ingredients, usually about 2-3 liters. Put the pot over medium heat, and when the water starts to boil, reduce the temperature and let the soup simmer on low heat.

It is essential to skim the soup from time to time, removing impurities that form on the surface. This will ensure a clear and appetizing soup.

Step 3: Seasoning

Once the chicken is cooked (about 30-40 minutes), remove it from the pot. Here you can do a useful trick: if you have a blender, you can puree some of the vegetables with a little soup to achieve a creamier texture, but this step is optional. Strain the soup to remove chicken and vegetable remnants, then put the vegetables back into the soup.

Season with salt, pepper, and Delikat to taste. Add the dried parsley and lovage, which will add a fragrant and fresh note. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes.

Step 4: Noodles

Before serving the soup, add the noodles to the pot. They will cook quickly in the soup, giving it a richer and heartier consistency. Boil the noodles according to the package instructions, but usually, it is enough to let them sit for about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5: Serving

Once the noodles are ready, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can serve the soup hot, sprinkled with a little chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness. This chicken soup with vegetables is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons.

Nutritional benefits

This chicken soup recipe is not only tasty but also healthy. The chicken provides essential proteins, while the vegetables bring a wealth of vitamins and minerals. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, and celery contributes to hydration. Additionally, chicken soup is known for its beneficial effects in combating colds and flu.

Stories and variations

Chicken soup is often associated with pleasant childhood memories when grandmothers spoiled us with the most delicious dishes. You can personalize your soup according to your preferences. For example, you can add potatoes, peas, or even corn. Another delicious variation is to add Asian spices like ginger or soy sauce to create a soup with an exotic twist.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to completely thaw it before boiling to achieve an even soup.

How can I store the soup?
Chicken soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze it in smaller portions to enjoy later.

What other recipes can I make with leftover chicken?
The leftover meat from the soup can be successfully used for salad, sandwiches, or even tacos.

Ideal combinations

To complete the meal, you can serve chicken soup alongside a fresh vegetable salad or homemade bread. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade could do wonders to enhance the culinary experience.

So, gather these simple ingredients and prepare to indulge in a tasty chicken soup that will not only satisfy your hunger but also bring a piece of the comfort of your home to your plate. Enjoy your meal!