Chicken soup

Chicken Soup with Vegetables and Noodles – A Traditional Recipe Rich in Flavors

Chicken soup is more than just a simple broth; it’s a symbol of comfort, a dish that warms your soul and reminds you of family moments. This traditional recipe, filled with fresh vegetables and noodles, is perfect for chilly days and brings smiles to the faces of your loved ones, no matter the season. Plus, it’s a simple and healthy recipe, packed with nutrients.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Here’s how to prepare this delicacy step by step!

Ingredients

- 1 free-range chicken (about 3.3 lbs)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 large carrot
- 2 medium potatoes
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for a pop of color)
- 6-7 ripe tomatoes (or 400 g canned tomatoes if fresh ones are unavailable)
- 100 g noodles (you can use homemade or store-bought noodles, depending on your preference)
- 2 eggs
- Fresh herbs (lovage, parsley, dill – to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Ingredients

1. The chicken: Choose a free-range chicken, which will add a unique flavor to your soup. Free-range chicken is juicier and tastier than store-bought. Cut the chicken into pieces for even cooking.

2. The vegetables: Finely chop the onions, slice the carrot into rounds, and dice the potatoes and bell pepper. The tomatoes can be peeled and chopped or pureed, depending on your preferred soup texture.

3. The herbs: Wash them thoroughly and chop them finely. Fresh herbs are essential for giving the soup a vibrant flavor and appealing appearance.

Cooking the Soup

1. Boiling the chicken: In a large pot, add the cut chicken and fill it with water. Add a tablespoon of salt. Place the pot over medium-high heat and wait for it to reach a boil. When the water starts to boil, foam will form on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove the foam, ensuring the soup remains clear and appetizing.

2. Add the vegetables: Once the foam has been removed, add the onion, carrot, and bell pepper, and let them boil together with the chicken for about 20-30 minutes, until the vegetables become tender.

3. Potatoes and zucchini: Add the diced potatoes and zucchini (optional) to the pot. Let them boil together for 15 minutes or until the potatoes are fully cooked.

4. Tomatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, add the chopped tomatoes. They will bring a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the meat. Let them boil for 5-10 minutes.

5. Noodles: Add the noodles to the pot and allow them to boil according to the package instructions, usually between 5 and 10 minutes. The noodles will absorb the flavors of the soup and become incredibly delicious.

6. Beaten eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with a fork. Using a ladle, take some of the hot soup broth and slowly add it to the bowl with the eggs, stirring constantly. This will prevent the eggs from curdling suddenly. Once the eggs are blended with the hot broth, pour the mixture into the pot.

7. Finishing the soup: Turn off the heat and add the chopped herbs, stirring well. This step is essential for preserving the fresh aroma of the herbs. Cover the pot and let the soup rest for 5-10 minutes.

Chef's Tip

For an even more flavorful chicken soup, you can add a tablespoon of vinegar or the juice of a lemon before adding the herbs. This will enhance the flavors and provide a pleasant contrast.

Serving

Chicken soup with vegetables and noodles is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread, or even with a spicy pepper if you enjoy a bit of heat. You can also add sour cream for extra creaminess.

Nutritional Benefits

This soup is low in calories, with approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the amount of meat and noodles used. It is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the combination of meat and vegetables.

Possible Variations

- Chicken soup with homemade noodles: Instead of store-bought noodles, you can make homemade noodles, which will add a unique texture to your soup.
- Spicy chicken soup: Add a few slices of hot pepper or a sprinkle of paprika for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian soup: You can replace the chicken with mushrooms and add more vegetables, such as pumpkin or cauliflower.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long should I boil the meat?
Free-range chicken generally requires about 35-40 minutes to cook thoroughly, but the time may vary depending on the size of the pieces.

2. Can I use gluten-free noodles?
Yes, you can use rice noodles or other gluten-free grains to adapt the recipe to your dietary needs.

3. How can I store the soup for the next day?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it over low heat, adding a little water if it becomes too thick.

Conclusion

Chicken soup with vegetables and noodles is a dish that combines tradition with comfort, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. This simple and versatile recipe can be adapted to your tastes, allowing you to experiment with new ingredients each time. So, put on an apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a bowl of happiness on your plate!