Chicken soup

Chicken soup – a comforting delight that reminds us of family meals, cool days, and the warmth of home. This classic recipe, full of flavors and nutrients, is not only an excellent choice for a family dinner but also a dish rich in culinary history, enjoyed by generations. Whether you are a beginner cook or a culinary guru, this chicken soup recipe will help you create a delicious and comforting meal, full of flavors and love.

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

Ingredients

- 1 chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 1 medium carrot
- 2 medium potatoes
- 1/2 celery
- 1 large onion
- 1 liter tomato juice
- 1 liter borscht
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon vegeta (or to taste)
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water (enough to cover all ingredients)

Necessary utensils

- A large pot
- A sharp knife
- A grater (optional)
- A wooden spoon
- A skimmer

Step by step: How to make the perfect chicken soup

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. It is important to remove any residues and impurities. Cut the chicken into smaller pieces so that it cooks evenly.

2. Initial boiling: Place the chicken pieces in a large pot and cover them with water. Add a little vegeta and the two bay leaves, which will provide a delicate flavor. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and remove the foam that forms on the surface with a skimmer. This step is essential for obtaining a clear and appetizing soup.

3. Changing the water: Once the water has boiled and the foam has been removed, discard the first water and add clean water to continue boiling. This simple trick will help improve the taste of the soup.

4. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, peel the carrot, potatoes, and celery. Cut the carrot into rounds or cubes, and the potatoes and celery into cubes. This uniform cutting will ensure even cooking and a nice appearance of the soup.

5. Adding the vegetables: When the water has started boiling again, add the chopped vegetables. Let them boil together with the chicken for about 20 minutes, until they become tender.

6. Tomato sauce and noodles: After the vegetables have softened, add the tomato juice. This will bring a note of acidity and a rich taste to your soup. If you want to include noodles, now is the right time. Let the soup boil for 10-15 minutes, until the noodles are cooked.

7. Adding the borscht: Finally, add the borscht, which will give a note of freshness and acidity to the soup. Allow the soup to boil one last time and adjust the taste with salt and pepper.

8. Finishing the soup: When the soup is ready, turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh parsley, which will add extra freshness and color.

Serving suggestions

Serve the chicken soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or with crunchy croutons. You can add a spoonful of sour cream on top for extra creaminess. A bottle of white wine or a refreshing drink will perfectly complement the meal.

Tips and variations

- For a more flavorful soup: You can add a few peppercorns or slices of hot pepper.
- Vegetarian variation: You can replace the chicken with mushrooms or various vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Using leftovers: If you have leftover chicken from another meal, you can add it to the soup for extra flavor.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the combination of meat, vegetables, and borscht. It is a hearty yet light dish, ideal for a family meal. Each serving has approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the amount of vegetables used and the portion of chicken.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

- How long can I keep the soup? Chicken soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and for a longer duration, you can freeze it.

- What vegetables can I add? You can add zucchini, peas, or even cabbage, depending on your preferences.

This chicken soup recipe is not just a meal, but an experience that will invite you to enjoy every bite. So, put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and let yourself be carried away by the enticing aromas of this warm and comforting soup!