Chicken soup

Country Chicken Soup with Noodles - A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavor

Chicken soup is a dish that reminds us of family Sunday meals, of the moments when we gather around the table to enjoy delicious, aromatic, and warm dishes. This recipe for country chicken soup with noodles is perfect for delighting your taste buds and creating pleasant memories with loved ones. Together, we prepare a nourishing soup, rich in vegetables and with a unique flavor, which will surely become one of your favorite recipes.

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

Ingredients:
- 1 chicken
- 1 large carrot
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 small celery
- 1 parsley root
- 1 parsnip
- 1 large onion
- 150 g noodles
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon of dried lovage
- 200 ml fermented borscht (or a sachet)
- salt to taste
- water (about 2 liters)

Some practical tips about the ingredients:
- Choose a country chicken, as the meat is more flavorful and provides a richer soup. If you don't have access to country chicken, a regular chicken will also work.
- Fresh vegetables are essential to add flavor and nutrients. Make sure the carrot and celery are firm and blemish-free.
- Fermented borscht adds a tangy note, but you can adjust the amount according to your preferences. You can also use lemon juice or vinegar to achieve the same acidity.

Preparation technique:
1. Start by filling a large pot with cold water, using about 2 liters. Add the chicken cut into pieces and place the pot over medium heat. Let it boil, skimming off the foam that forms on the surface with a skimmer. This step is important to obtain a clear and tasty soup.

2. If you have a pressure cooker, transfer the chicken and broth into it and cook for 40 minutes. This is an excellent method to tenderize the meat, especially when using country chicken, which requires more time to cook properly.

3. Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a larger pot, straining the broth to remove impurities. Add the chicken meat, then the finely chopped carrot, bell pepper, and onion.

4. Add the whole celery, parsley root, and parsnip to the pot with the meat and vegetables. If you prefer, you can cut these vegetables into small cubes and leave them in the soup for a richer texture.

5. Fill with water until all the ingredients are covered, then turn the heat to low. Let the soup simmer until the vegetables are cooked, about 30-40 minutes.

6. After the vegetables are cooked, add the noodles and let them boil for another 5-8 minutes, until they are cooked.

7. Finally, add the fermented borscht (or from the sachet) and salt to taste. Let it boil for a few minutes, then turn off the heat.

8. Add the freshly chopped parsley and dried lovage to intensify the flavors. Serve the soup hot, with a spoonful of sour cream and fresh herbs on top.

Serving suggestions:
Country chicken soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or warm polenta. If you want to add extra flavor, you can sprinkle some chili flakes or paprika for a spicy kick.

Variations:
- You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or potatoes, depending on your preferences.
- If you want a lighter version, you can use boneless chicken breast, but make sure to adjust the cooking time.
- For a more intense flavor, you can add a few crushed garlic cloves or a bay leaf during cooking.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken soup is not only delicious but also healthy. It is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals from the vegetables, having a low-calorie content, which makes it an ideal choice for a light meal. Each serving of soup has about 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use turkey, but the cooking time may vary depending on the type of meat used.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add red pepper or chili flakes during preparation for an extra kick.

3. Can chicken soup be frozen?
Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended not to add the noodles before freezing. Add them only at the time of serving.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to put on your apron and start cooking! You will find that preparing this country chicken soup is a rewarding experience, and the final result will delight even the most discerning tastes. Happy cooking!