Chicken soup

Chicken soup – a traditional recipe that brings warmth and comfort in every bowl. This dish is not just a simple meal; it is a culinary experience that connects us to our roots, childhood memories, and family gatherings. Chicken soup is an excellent choice for chilly days, offering not only a savory taste but also significant nutritional benefits. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicacy.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of chicken meat (back and wings), portioned and washed
- 1 onion, peeled and washed
- 1 carrot, peeled and washed
- 1 small celery, peeled and washed
- ½ bell pepper, peeled and washed
- 3-4 small tomatoes, washed (optional peeled)
- 2-3 potatoes, peeled, washed, and diced
- 200 ml of cooking cream
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons of vermicelli or noodles
- Fresh herbs (parsley and lovage), washed
- Salt, to taste
- Water, as needed

Step by step in preparing chicken soup:

Step 1: Preparing the base
Start by preparing the stove and choosing a large pot to put water in. Add the chicken meat and let it boil over medium heat. During boiling, it is essential to skim off the foam that forms on the surface with a skimmer; this will ensure a clear and appetizing soup.

Step 2: Cutting the vegetables
In the meantime, start preparing the vegetables. Finely chop the onion, cut the carrot into thin rounds, and the celery into small cubes. The bell pepper is cut into thin strips, and the tomatoes can be diced or grated. The herbs (parsley and lovage) are finely chopped to give the soup a fresh and aromatic taste.

Step 3: Adding the vegetables
When the meat is almost cooked (about 30 minutes), add the chopped onion. Continue with the carrot, celery, and bell pepper, stirring occasionally. If you notice that the liquid is decreasing, add warm water to maintain an adequate consistency.

Step 4: Seasonal vegetables
After about 10 minutes of boiling, add the seasonal vegetables: potatoes and tomatoes. Mix everything well and let it boil for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables become tender.

Step 5: Vermicelli and seasoning
Add the vermicelli to the pot and season with salt, stirring gently. Let it boil for another 5-7 minutes until the vermicelli is cooked al dente.

Step 6: Cream of sour cream
In a separate bowl, mix the egg yolk with the cooking cream. It is important to homogenize the mixture well. Check if the vegetables and meat are cooked, then turn off the heat. Pour a ladle of hot soup over the egg and cream mixture and stir to avoid curdling the egg. Then, pour this mixture into the pot.

Step 7: Finalizing and serving
Mix well, taste, and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Finally, sprinkle the chopped herbs on top of the soup. Serve hot, alongside hot chili peppers for an extra kick.

Practical tips:
- Chicken meat: Choose quality chicken, preferably from a local farmer, for a richer taste.
- Vegetables: You can also add other seasonal vegetables, such as peas, beans, or zucchini, to diversify the flavor.
- Cream: If you prefer a more sour soup, you can add a tablespoon of borscht or lemon juice at the end.
- Storage: Chicken soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be frozen for later consumption.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken soup is an excellent source of proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken meat is easily digestible and nutrient-rich, while the vegetables provide an important supply of fiber and antioxidants.

Serving ideas:
Chicken soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can also accompany this dish with a simple green salad to add a touch of freshness.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken instead of hen?
Yes, you can use chicken, but the cooking time will be shorter.
2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add fresh chili peppers or chili flakes during boiling.
3. Is chicken soup suitable for a diet?
Yes, it is a healthy and low-calorie option, full of nutrients.

With this chicken soup recipe, you will bring not only a tasty dish to your table but also a touch of tradition and warmth. Enjoy!