Chicken soup

Chicken soup is a classic dish, known and appreciated for its comforting taste and inviting aroma. It is a meal that reminds us of family Sunday dinners, of moments spent together, and of culinary traditions that bind us. This chicken soup recipe is not only delicious but also nourishing, offering numerous nutritional benefits due to the fresh ingredients we will use.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 carrot
- 1 medium onion
- 1 parsley root
- 1 tomato
- 1 handful of fresh parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- A pinch of sweet paprika
- 1 liter of borscht (or another souring agent like lemon juice or vinegar)
- 1 handful of noodles (optional)

Step by step for a perfect chicken soup

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cleaning the chicken thighs. A trick I use is to lightly singe them over the flame of the stove. This step not only removes the feathers but also gives the meat a more intense flavor. After singeing, wash them well under cold running water and let them drain.

2. Boiling the meat: Fill a large pot (about 8 liters) with water, filling it up to 3/4. Add the chicken thighs and place the pot on the heat. When the water starts to boil, you will notice foam forming on the surface. It is important to remove this foam with a spatula, as it contains impurities that can affect the soup's flavor.

3. Preparing the vegetables: While the meat is boiling, we can take care of the vegetables. Peel and finely chop the onion. Peel the carrot, then grate it with large holes to release its aromatic juices. Cut the parsley root into small cubes, and dice the bell peppers. Peel the tomato (you can dip it in boiling water for a few seconds to make this process easier) and chop it finely.

4. Adding the vegetables to the soup: After skimming the meat, add all the chopped vegetables to the pot. Allow everything to simmer over medium heat so that the flavors intertwine and develop.

5. Tasting the meat: After about 30 minutes, check if the meat is cooked through. It should be tender and easily pulled from the bone. If it’s ready, we can add the borscht to sour the soup. Let it boil again.

6. Seasoning the soup: Now is the perfect time to add salt, pepper, and the pinch of sweet paprika, which will give the soup a special taste. Here, it is important to taste the soup and adjust the seasonings according to your preference.

7. Adding the noodles: If we want to make the soup even heartier, we can add a handful of noodles. Let it boil for about 5 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked.

8. Finalizing the soup: When the soup is ready, turn off the heat and finely chop the fresh parsley. Sprinkle the parsley on top for a touch of freshness.

9. Serving: Chicken soup is served hot and can be accompanied by fresh bread or polenta. A slice of lemon on the side can add a refreshing note, and a hot pepper for those who prefer a spicier taste.

A brief history of soups

Soups are a staple in many culinary cultures, often considered the "soul of the meal." These dishes have evolved over time, with each region having its own variant influenced by local ingredients and gastronomic traditions. Chicken soup is a simple yet versatile recipe that can be adapted to individual preferences.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken soup is rich in protein due to the chicken, and contains plenty of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. Carrots, for example, are an excellent source of beta-carotene, and parsley adds a vitality note with vitamin C. This soup is ideal for strengthening the immune system, especially in the cold season.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use turkey or even beef, but the cooking time will be different.

- How can I make the soup spicier?
You can add a chopped hot pepper or a pinch of hot pepper, depending on your taste.

- Are there variations to make the soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the meat with mushrooms and add more vegetables to get a delicious and hearty soup.

Serving suggestions

Chicken soup can be served alongside a fresh summer salad or with a warm bun spread with butter. A suitable drink would be a light white wine that complements the flavors of the soup.

Now that you have all this information at hand, you are ready to prepare a delicious chicken soup that will delight all your loved ones. Remember, cooking is an art, and every recipe is an opportunity to express your creativity! Enjoy your meal!