chicken soup

Chicken soup with homemade noodles – a comforting and flavorful recipe

Chicken soup is one of those dishes that reminds us of Sunday family meals, where the aroma of fresh meat and vegetables intertwines with cherished memories. This recipe is not only simple but also very satisfying, offering a rich and comforting taste. Moreover, the homemade noodles add a special charm, turning this dish into a true delicacy.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 700 g chicken meat (preferably thighs or breast, but you can also use leftover chicken)
- 2 large carrots
- 1/2 celery
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 large onion
- 1 l borscht (or to taste)
- 1 egg
- 200 g flour
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt, pepper, and Delikat to taste
- Thyme (optional)

A brief history of chicken soup

Chicken soup has deep roots in traditional cuisine, being a dish consumed for centuries. It has evolved into various versions, depending on the regions and culinary customs of each community. Soup is not just a dish but also a way to gather the family at the table, symbolizing the warmth and comfort of home.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the meat:
- Start by washing the chicken meat under a stream of cold water. Place it in a bowl with water and add a tablespoon of salt. Let it soak for 30 minutes. This will help remove impurities and make the meat tender.

2. Boiling the meat:
- After soaking, place the meat in a large pot with cold water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, skimming off the foam that forms on the surface.

3. Preparing the vegetables:
- While the meat is boiling, peel and wash the vegetables. Grate the carrots on a large grater, and dice the celery. Chop the onion finely, and cut the bell peppers into small cubes. I recommend using fresh vegetables as they will give the soup a more intense flavor.

4. Adding the vegetables:
- When the meat is nearly done, add the chopped onion to the pot, followed by the carrots, celery, and bell peppers. Let everything simmer together for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables become tender.

5. Preparing the homemade noodles:
- In a bowl, beat the egg with a pinch of salt and gradually add the flour, mixing until you obtain a smooth dough. Let it rest for 5 minutes. Then, roll out the dough on a floured surface, cutting it into thin strips. Let the noodles dry for a few minutes.

6. Boiling the borscht:
- In another pot, bring the borscht to a boil with a bit of thyme. When the vegetables are ready, pour the boiled borscht into the pot with the soup and let it come to a boil.

7. Adding the noodles:
- After the borscht has boiled, add the noodles to the soup. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes until the noodles are soft.

8. Finalizing the soup:
- Finally, add the chopped parsley and dill, along with salt and pepper to taste. Turn off the heat and let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving suggestions

Chicken soup is served hot, with a slice of lemon on the side to give it a fresh taste. You can accompany it with fresh sour cream, which will add a creamy and delicious note. Additionally, a slice of homemade bread or crunchy croutons will perfectly complete the meal.

Possible variations

If you want to bring a different note to your soup, you can replace the chicken with turkey or beef. You can also experiment with different vegetables, such as zucchini or peas, to diversify the flavor.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
- Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but it is best to add them to the pot a few minutes before adding the borscht to thaw properly.

2. How long can the soup be stored?
- Chicken soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

3. Is it possible to make the soup spicier?
- Of course, you can add a few slices of hot pepper or spices like paprika or red pepper.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken meat provides a significant amount of lean protein, while the vegetables used are rich in fiber and antioxidants, contributing to healthy digestion. Additionally, the borscht adds a touch of acidity, which helps stimulate the appetite.

Calories

A serving of this soup contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the amount of sour cream added at serving.

Chicken soup with homemade noodles is a perfect choice for a family meal or a comforting dinner on cold winter evenings. Prepared with love, it will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones, turning each spoonful into an unforgettable memory. Bon appétit!