Chicken Soup

Chicken soup is a traditional dish, full of flavor, that perfectly combines the aromas of fresh ingredients and offers a comforting experience, ideal for cooler days or when we feel the need for a little extra comfort. Every housewife has her own recipe, but today I will present you with a detailed recipe, with useful tips and customization options, so you can achieve a delicious and vitamin-packed chicken soup.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients

- 1 kg chicken meat (giblets, bony parts, wings)
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 1-2 slices of celery
- 1 bell pepper
- 1-2 slices of beetroot (optional, for a more vibrant color)
- 1 onion
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (or parsley)
- 1-2 tablespoons of fresh tarragon (if available)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 100 g noodles, pasta or rice (according to preference)
- 1 egg yolk
- Bors (to taste; you can use homemade or store-bought bors)

Preparation

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. Place it in a large pot, add cold water, and start boiling. It is important to use cold water as it helps extract the flavors from the meat. Once the water begins to boil, skim off the foam that forms on the surface with a skimmer to obtain a clear soup.

2. Adding the vegetables: After removing the foam, add the chopped vegetables: carrot, parsnip, celery, bell pepper, and beetroot (if you choose to use it). These vegetables not only add flavor but also provide important nutritional value. Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes.

3. Adding the noodles: When the meat is almost cooked, add the noodles, pasta, or rice, depending on your preferences. Boil everything together for another 10-15 minutes until the noodles are cooked.

4. Seasoning: It’s time to adjust the taste of the soup. Add salt, pepper, and thyme to taste. These spices will enhance the flavor of the meat and vegetables.

5. Bors and egg tempering: Before serving, add the boiled bors (for 10 minutes) to the soup. This will add a pleasant acidity and a specific taste to the soup. Finally, beat an egg yolk and add it to the soup, stirring well to achieve a creamy texture. Don’t forget to add the finely chopped herbs for an extra touch of freshness.

6. Serving: Chicken soup is served hot, with a slice of fresh bread on the side. You can also add chili peppers or sour cream to the table, depending on personal preferences.

Useful tips

- Bors: If you prefer a lighter version, you can omit the bors and use lemon juice to add a sour taste.
- Variants: If you want a heartier soup, you can add more root vegetables, such as potatoes or parsley.
- Homemade noodles: If you want to try a more homemade version, prepare your noodles at home. Mix 1 egg with a pinch of salt and enough flour to form a compact dough. Roll it out and cut it into thin strips.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken soup is not only delicious but also very nutritious. Chicken meat is an excellent source of protein, while the added vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, consuming soup can help hydrate the body, especially in colder seasons.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Absolutely! Turkey soup will have a similar taste, but it may be slightly less flavorful.

- How can I make the soup spicier? You can add fresh chili peppers or cayenne pepper during preparation.

- How long can the soup be stored in the fridge? Chicken soup can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Make sure it is well covered.

Conclusion

Chicken soup is a classic dish that brings the family together around the table and warms the soul. With every sip, you will remember Sunday meals spent with loved ones. Prepare this simple recipe and enjoy it with a glass of white wine or a cold lemonade. It is a dish that nourishes not only the body but also the soul. So, don’t wait any longer, get to work, and enjoy this delicacy!