Chicken soup made from the rooster of Ina.

Hen soup "crippled" by Ina's rooster - A rustic delight

If you are looking for a soup recipe that will entice your senses and remind you of hearty meals at home, you have come to the right place. Hen soup is a classic dish, full of flavors, with simple ingredients that, when combined correctly, become a true feast. Moreover, the story behind this recipe is just as savory as the soup itself.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 piece of free-range hen (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 2 medium onions
- 2 bell peppers (preferably one red and one green for a palette of colors)
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsnip
- 4-5 ripe tomatoes
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- 1-2 liters of borscht (preferably homemade)
- 150 g noodles (you can opt for homemade noodles, but store-bought ones are just as good)
- Salt and pepper to taste

The story of the soup
This hen soup recipe was inspired by popular culinary traditions, where each ingredient has its own value and significance. Hen soup is often associated with festive moments or family gatherings at the table, having the gift of bringing people together. In this case, the love story between a hen and a rooster is a playful element that reminds us to enjoy the little pleasures of life.

Step by step: Preparing the hen soup

1. Preparing the hen: Start by cleaning the hen. If you are lucky enough to have a free-range hen, it will certainly have a more intense flavor. Make a stock of water and place the cut hen in a large pot. Cover with cold water, add a little salt, and bring to a boil over medium heat.

2. Skimming: As the hen begins to boil, foam will form on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove it. This step is essential for obtaining a clear and appetizing soup.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the meat is partially cooked, it’s time to add the vegetables. Wash and chop the onions into cubes, the carrots and parsnip into rounds, and the bell peppers into strips. Add all these vegetables to the pot and let them boil together with the meat to release their flavors.

4. Tomatoes and borscht: When the vegetables are cooked, add the grated tomatoes. They will provide a pleasant acidity to the soup. Then add the borscht, which will add a distinctive, tangy taste to the soup. Let everything boil for 10-15 minutes.

5. Noodles: Finally, add the noodles. They will cook quickly, so don’t leave them for too long. Bring to a boil a few times and then remove the pot from the heat.

6. Seasoning: The last step is to add the freshly chopped lovage. This will give a fresh aroma to your soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving suggestions
Serve the soup hot, with a slice of homemade bread on the side and, if you like, a splash of sour cream for added creaminess. A fresh green salad will perfectly complement the meal.

Tips and variations
If you want to give the recipe a twist, you can try adding a hot pepper for a spicy taste or a little garlic for extra flavor. If you prefer heartier soups, you can also add cubed potatoes.

Nutritional benefits
Hen soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Free-range hens are usually lower in fat and richer in nutrients than industrially farmed hens. The vegetables add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use store-bought chicken?
Yes, you can use store-bought chicken, but the taste will be different. Free-range hen has a more intense and flavorful taste.

2. How can I keep the soup longer?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can also freeze it for later consumption.

3. What other recipes can I make with leftover chicken?
You can make a chicken salad, a chicken sandwich, or even a chicken pie.

4. What drinks go well with hen soup?
A craft beer or a dry white wine are excellent choices to accompany hen soup.

This "crippled" hen soup recipe by Ina's rooster is not just a delicious dish but also a story that invites you to enjoy every bite. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy a warm, savory soup that will bring a smile to the faces of all your loved ones. Bon appétit!