Chicken soup

Chicken soup is a classic recipe, loved by many, that brings a touch of comfort and warmth to our souls. This soup is perfect for cool days or for gathering the family around the table. With a mix of simple and healthy ingredients, this recipe takes us back to the roots of home cooking, where each ingredient tells a story.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 60-90 minutes
Total time: 75-105 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg)
- 2 large onions
- 2 carrots
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 parsley root
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley leaves
- 100 ml lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 200 ml tomato juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by cutting the chicken into portions. I recommend cutting it into smaller pieces for even cooking. You can use a sharp knife and a cutting board. Then, place the chicken pieces in a large pot, cover them with cold water, and add a teaspoon of salt. This will help flavor the meat during boiling.

2. Boiling the chicken: Place the pot on medium heat and let it boil. During this time, you will notice foam forming on the surface. Don’t forget to remove it with a skimmer, as it contains impurities that can affect the appearance and taste of the soup.

3. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, finely chop the onion, carrots, bell pepper, and parsley root. These vegetables are essential for adding flavor to your soup. The onion will provide sweetness, the carrot will add a note of freshness, and the bell pepper will add a slightly sweet taste.

4. Sautéing the vegetables: In a separate pan, add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the chopped vegetables over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, until they become soft and fragrant. This technique will enhance the flavors and add extra richness to the soup.

5. Combining the ingredients: Once the chicken is boiled and tender, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the chicken broth. Then, shred the chicken into smaller pieces (or you can leave the pieces whole, according to your preference) and add them to the pot, along with the tomato juice.

6. Melding the flavors: Let the soup simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, so all the flavors blend perfectly. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, to your liking. The lemon will add a tangy note, balancing the sweetness of the vegetables.

7. Finishing and serving: When the soup is ready, add the chopped fresh parsley leaves for an extra touch of freshness. Serve the soup hot, with a slice of lemon on the side, for those who want to add a splash of extra acidity.

Tips & Tricks:
- If you want a heartier soup, you can also add some diced potatoes.
- I recommend using a free-range chicken, as the meat has a more intense flavor and better texture.
- Instead of tomato juice, you can use fresh blended tomatoes for an even more authentic taste.
- Chicken soup pairs excellently with sour cream and a slice of fresh bread.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken soup is not only delicious but also very nutritious. It is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. The chicken provides lean protein, while the vegetables add fiber and antioxidants. The lemon adds vitamin C, essential for the immune system.

Variations:
If you want to experiment, you can add spices like turmeric or paprika to give the soup a different twist. Additionally, you can replace the tomato juice with tomato paste for a more concentrated flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
1. How long can I keep the soup in the fridge?
Chicken soup can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in airtight containers.
2. Can I freeze chicken soup?
Yes, chicken soup freezes very well. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in containers for freezing.
3. How can I make chicken soup spicier?
If you prefer a spicier soup, you can add fresh chili peppers or chili flakes during the sautéing of the vegetables.

This chicken soup recipe is more than just a meal; it is a tradition, a treasure of home cooking that brings joy and comfort in every spoonful. Enjoy!