Chicken soup with buckwheat

Chicken Buckwheat Soup: A Comforting Culinary Experience

In search of a dish that combines tradition with innovation, chicken buckwheat soup is the perfect choice. This classic recipe, reinterpreted with a surprising ingredient, will not only bring warmth on chilly days but also an explosion of flavors that will delight the taste buds of the whole family. Buckwheat, often underestimated, is an excellent source of nutrients and adds a slightly nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich aroma of chicken soup.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients:

- 500 g chicken meat (ideally back or wings, to obtain a rich broth)
- 4 medium carrots, peeled
- 1 parsley root, peeled
- 1 small celery, peeled
- 2 small onions, whole and peeled
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cloves
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 cup buckwheat seeds, well washed
- Salt and pepper, to taste

A Bit of History:

Chicken soup is a dish with deep roots in the culinary tradition of many cultures. Whether used as a remedy for colds or as a comforting meal, chicken soup has always been appreciated for its nutritional properties. Including buckwheat in the recipe is not just an innovation but also a healthy choice, considering that buckwheat is rich in protein, fiber, and antioxidants.

Preparing Chicken Buckwheat Soup:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by placing the chicken meat in a large pot and covering it with 7 liters of cold water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. It is essential to remove the foam that forms on the surface with a skimmer, so the soup remains clear and appetizing.

2. Adding the vegetables: Stick the cloves into the onion (this will be easy to remove later) and add it to the pot along with the carrots cut into large pieces, the parsley root, and the celery. Also, add the bay leaf. These vegetables will give the soup a deep and complex flavor.

3. Slow cooking: Let the soup simmer on very low heat, covered, for about 2 hours. This slow cooking method will allow the flavors to fully develop, and the meat will become tender and flavorful.

4. Straining: After the time has passed, strain the soup through a fine sieve to remove the vegetables and bone. Put the liquid back on the heat, adding the washed buckwheat. Let it boil for 15-20 minutes until the buckwheat becomes soft.

5. Finalizing the dish: While the buckwheat is cooking, slice two carrots into thin rounds and remove the meat from the bone. After the buckwheat is ready, add the carrots and meat back into the soup. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

6. Serving: Chicken buckwheat soup is served hot, sprinkled with finely chopped fresh parsley. You can also add some croutons for extra texture.

Practical Tips:

- About buckwheat: Make sure the buckwheat is well washed before adding it to the soup. This will help remove any natural bitterness it may have.
- Vegetarian option: You can replace the chicken with vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or potatoes for a delicious vegetarian version.
- More intense flavors: If you want a more flavorful soup, add a teaspoon of soy sauce or fish sauce during cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use another type of meat? Of course! You can use turkey or even beef to achieve different flavors.
2. Can buckwheat be substituted? Yes, you can use rice or noodles, but the result will be different, especially nutritionally.
3. How can I store the soup? The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can freeze it in small portions to enjoy later.

Delicious Combinations:

- Homemade bread: A slice of fresh homemade bread will perfectly complement this comforting soup.
- Green salad: A fresh salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette will add a pleasant contrast.

Enjoy every spoonful of this chicken buckwheat soup, savoring not only the flavors but also the moments spent with loved ones. This recipe is not just a simple dish but a culinary experience that brings together tradition and innovation, perfect for enjoying with family.