Chicken soup

Chicken soup is a traditional dish, full of flavors and nutrients, that brings with it family memories and warm moments. From the first sip, this comforting soup revives a sense of comfort and well-being. It is a dish that is cooked with love and patience, and today I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect chicken soup, full of flavor.

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 onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 small celery
- 1 parsnip
- 3-4 peeled tomatoes (or a can of tomatoes)
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 eggs
- 1 liter of borscht (or to taste)
- Fresh green lovage (for serving)
- Salt (to taste)
- 3-4 liters of water (or as needed)

The story behind chicken soup

Chicken soup is a dish that has been enjoyed for generations, with deep roots in traditional cuisine. It is known for its nutritious and comforting properties, often prepared on cool days or when someone is feeling under the weather. Chicken soup is not just a simple broth; it is a perfect blend of ingredients that complement each other and ensure a rich taste.

Step 1: Preparing the chicken

The first step is to prepare the chicken. Wash it well under a stream of cold water. Then, cut it into suitable pieces. This step is essential to ensure even boiling. The cut chicken will release its flavor into the water and turn the soup into a delicacy.

Step 2: Boiling the chicken

In a large pot, add the cut chicken and pour in 3-4 liters of water. Place the pot over medium heat and let it start boiling. When the water begins to boil, foam will form on the surface. It is important to skim the soup well with a ladle to obtain a clear and tasty liquid. This is a simple yet essential technique in soup cooking.

Step 3: Preparing the vegetables

Meanwhile, finely chop the onion, carrot, celery, and parsnip. These vegetables will add an unmistakable flavor to your soup. If you want a finer texture, you can grate them. You can chop the tomatoes finely or mash them, depending on your preferences.

Step 4: Adding the vegetables

Once the chicken has boiled for about 30 minutes, add the chopped vegetables to the pot. Let them boil together with the meat for another 20-30 minutes. This will allow the vegetables to release all their flavors and nutrients.

Step 5: Finishing the soup

After the chicken and vegetables are cooked, add the tomato paste and stir gently. Then, add salt to taste. Depending on your preferences, you can add borscht to achieve that specific sour note typical of soups. Let it boil for another 5-10 minutes.

Step 6: Preparing the eggs

In a separate bowl, beat the two eggs. When the soup is ready, turn off the heat and add the beaten eggs, stirring vigorously to avoid lumps. This step will enrich the soup's texture and add a creamy note.

Step 7: Serving

Finally, add finely chopped fresh lovage for an extra touch of freshness. The soup is served hot, alongside fresh bread or polenta. You can also accompany it with a splash of sour cream for an even richer taste.

Practical tips

- For a more intense flavor: Let the soup boil longer, allowing the flavors to develop better.
- Interesting variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to diversify the recipe.
- Serving options: Serve the soup with hot peppers or a fresh cabbage salad for a pleasant contrast of textures.

Nutritional information

Chicken soup is rich in proteins and vitamins, with a low calorie content. A 250 ml serving of chicken soup contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is an excellent choice for a light, nutritious, and satisfying meal.

Frequently asked questions

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

2. How can I keep the soup for longer?
- You can keep the soup in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing.

3. What other side dishes can I use?
- Chicken soup goes wonderfully with croutons, toasted bread, or polenta.

In conclusion, chicken soup is not just a comforting dish, but also a way to bring the family together. With every spoonful, you will taste the tradition and love behind this simple yet flavorful recipe. Experiment with the ingredients and adapt the recipe to your taste, to create a chicken soup that truly becomes a family favorite!