Chicken soup

Chicken soup – a classic, comforting dish full of flavors that takes us back to childhood days when every spoonful brought comfort and warmth. This chicken soup recipe is not only simple but also quick, ideal for those moments when we want to indulge in a healthy and delicious meal. Let's embark on an adventure together in preparing this savory soup!

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

Ingredients:
- 2 chicken thighs
- 1 medium onion
- 2 carrots
- 3 potatoes (you can also use 1-2 extra potatoes if you like)
- 1 parsnip
- Salt (1 tablespoon)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Greens (parsley or lovage, as preferred)
- Noodles (about 100g)
- 1 chicken stock cube (Knorr or similar)

The history of chicken soup is long, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. It is known for its comforting properties, often made during times of cold or discomfort. It is said that chicken soup has the power to bring relief, not only through its delicious taste but also through its nutrient-rich ingredients.

Step by step in preparing chicken soup

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by cleaning the vegetables. Rinse the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Cut the onion in half, the carrots and parsnip into rounds, and the potatoes into medium-sized cubes. These cuts will allow the ingredients to cook evenly and will add texture to the soup.

2. Boiling the meat:
In a large pot, add the chicken thighs and pour in cold water to cover them completely. Add a tablespoon of salt and place the pot over medium heat. As the water begins to boil, you will notice foam forming on the surface. It is important to skim this foam with a ladle to achieve a clear and tasty soup.

3. Adding the vegetables:
Once you have skimmed the foam, add the onion, carrots, and parsnip to the pot. These vegetables will give the soup a wonderful flavor. Let everything simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes, until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked.

4. Straining the soup:
After the ingredients are cooked, strain the soup into another container, keeping only the liquid. The chicken thighs can be shredded into smaller pieces and added back to the soup if desired.

5. Finalizing the soup:
Put the strained soup back on the heat, add the chicken stock cube and let it boil. When the soup reaches boiling point, add the noodles. Cook according to the instructions on the package, usually between 5-7 minutes. After the noodles are cooked, add the cubed potatoes and let it boil for another 5-10 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.

6. Seasoning and serving:
Finally, add salt and pepper to taste, as well as the chosen greens. Turn off the heat and let the soup sit for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the chicken soup hot, in deep bowls, with the carrots and potatoes visibly cut. You can add a slice of lemon for a touch of freshness or some bread croutons for texture.

Possible variations:
For a heartier soup, you can add peas or corn. If you want a more intense flavor, try adding some spices like turmeric or sweet paprika. Also, if you prefer a vegetarian dish, replace the meat with tofu or mushrooms and use a vegetable stock cube.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, but the cooking time will be shorter, so check the meat earlier.
- What other vegetables can I add to the soup? Let your imagination run wild! Celery, zucchini, or even spinach are excellent additions.
- How can I store the soup? It keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days, but it can be frozen for later consumption.

Nutritional benefits:
This chicken soup is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The vegetables add fiber, and chicken meat is rich in essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for healthy meals. It is also low in calories, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

Now that you've discovered all the secrets of this delicious soup, don't hesitate to customize your recipe! Perhaps you like spicy seasonings or want to experiment with other vegetables. Whatever your choice, this chicken soup will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!