Chicken soup

Chicken soup is a classic, comforting recipe that evokes the authentic taste of childhood and provides a sense of well-being from every bowl. This soup is often prepared on cool days when a warm and nourishing meal brings joy and warmth to our souls. In the following, I will detail the steps to achieve a perfect chicken soup, rich in flavors and colors, that will delight family and friends.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 8 chicken wings
- 2 medium onions
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or green, for added color)
- 2 large carrots
- 1/2 small celery
- 1 bunch of parsley
- 1 bunch of dill
- 1 bunch of lovage
- 200 g noodles (homemade or store-bought)
- 200 ml tomato juice
- 1 liter of water
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 250 ml sour borscht or magic borscht (depending on preferences)
- Sour cream, for serving
- Hot pepper, optional, for an extra kick

Brief history:

Chicken soup is a traditional dish found in many culinary cultures, with variations based on ingredients and cooking techniques. This recipe has become a symbol of hospitality and family warmth, often served at holiday meals or on ordinary days when we want to indulge in a familiar taste.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the chicken wings: Start by washing the chicken wings well, ensuring that you remove any feather or down remnants. You can do this by quickly dipping them in hot water, followed by rinsing under cold running water.

2. Boiling the wings: Place the wings in a large pot with 1 liter of cold water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. It is important to add cold water to extract as many flavors from the meat as possible.

3. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, peel and chop the vegetables. The onion should be finely chopped, the carrot grated, the bell pepper diced, and the celery finely chopped. These vegetables will add depth and sweetness to the soup.

4. Adding the vegetables: Once the chicken wings start to boil, add the prepared vegetables. Let everything simmer over medium heat for about 30 minutes. You will notice the delicious aroma spreading throughout the kitchen.

5. Adding the tomato juice and noodles: 10 minutes before the soup is ready, add the tomato juice and noodles. The latter will absorb the flavors and become an essential part of the soup's texture.

6. Sour the soup: Once the noodles are cooked, it is time to sour the soup. Add the sour borscht or magic borscht, depending on your preference. You can adjust the amount based on how sour you like it. This step is crucial for achieving the authentic taste of the soup.

7. Seasoning: Don’t forget to add salt and pepper, to taste. Mix well and let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to integrate the flavors.

8. Finishing: When the soup is ready, remove it from the heat and add the finely chopped herbs: parsley, dill, and lovage. These will provide a fresh and vibrant flavor.

9. Serving: Serve the soup hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on each serving and, if you like, add hot pepper for an extra kick. You can accompany this dish with a slice of fresh bread, which will be perfect for soaking up all the soup's flavor.

Practical tips:

- For more tender chicken wings: If you want more tender meat, you can let the wings boil longer until the meat easily separates from the bone.
- For a special note: Add a few slices of fresh ginger during boiling. This will provide a slightly spicy aroma and add additional health benefits.
- Vegetarian option: You can replace the meat with mushrooms or seasonal vegetables for a delicious vegetarian soup.

Frequently asked questions:

- How long can I keep the soup in the fridge? Chicken soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.
- Can I freeze the soup? Yes, chicken soup can be frozen, but it is recommended to add the noodles only when reheating to prevent them from becoming too soft upon thawing.
- What other recipes pair well with chicken soup? A fresh vegetable salad or mashed potatoes can perfectly accompany a serving of soup. Also, a refreshing drink, such as fruit compote or iced tea, will complement the meal.

Nutritional benefits:

Chicken soup is not only tasty but also nutritious. Chicken wings are an excellent source of protein, and the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, borscht has digestive properties, helping to maintain intestinal health. The soup is a filling dish that can easily be included in balanced diets.

In conclusion, chicken soup is more than just a simple dish; it is a culinary experience that brings people together. So, dare to make it at home, enjoy every bite, and share this recipe with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!