Chicken soup with couscous

Chicken Soup with Couscous – A Hug for the Soul

When it comes to culinary comfort, nothing compares to a warm chicken soup that is not only nourishing but also filled with flavors and nostalgia. This chicken soup with couscous recipe is simple, quick, and will make you feel at home, no matter the weather outside. It is a dish that has crossed generations, bringing families and friends together around the table.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 1 chicken thigh (about 300 g)
- 100 g couscous (fine pasta)
- 3 medium carrots
- A small piece of celery (celery root)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon vegeta (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by placing the chicken thigh in a large pot, covering it with cold water. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Once the water starts boiling, reduce the temperature and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, until the meat is tender. Remove the meat from the water and let it cool slightly before shredding it from the bones.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Peel the carrots and celery, then grate them using a large grater. This technique will help quickly integrate the flavors into the soup. In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the grated vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This step is essential for developing flavors and adding a rich taste to your soup.

3. Combining the ingredients: Pour the chicken broth (the liquid in which you boiled the meat) over the sautéed vegetables, sprinkle the vegeta if using, and let everything simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables are cooked but still crunchy.

4. Preparing the couscous: In another pot, add salted water and bring to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the couscous. Cover with a lid and let it swell for 5 minutes. After that, drain the couscous and rinse it under cold water to prevent sticking.

5. Final assembly: Add the shredded chicken and couscous into the pot with the soup. Mix well and let it simmer together for 5 minutes. Add the chopped fresh parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving:

The chicken soup with couscous is served hot, ideal for a comforting dinner on chilly evenings. You can add a slice of fresh bread or croutons for extra texture. A wonderful idea is to serve the soup alongside a crispy green salad, which will add freshness to your meal.

Practical tips:

- If you have leftover vegetables on hand, feel free to add them to the soup. Potatoes, peas, or even bell peppers can enrich the dish.
- Instead of chicken thighs, you can use chicken breast for a leaner soup. However, the thighs will give a richer and deeper flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth.

Nutritional benefits:

Chicken soup with couscous is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken provides essential amino acids, while carrots and celery are excellent sources of fiber, vitamins A and C. Couscous adds complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of pasta instead of couscous?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as noodles or smaller pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the instructions on the package.

2. How can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze individual portions to have on hand for a quick lunch.

3. Is the soup suitable for a diet?
Yes, chicken soup with couscous is a healthy, filling option that can easily be integrated into a balanced diet.

In conclusion, this chicken soup with couscous is not just a delicious dish, but also a way to savor moments spent with family and experience the joy of cooking. I guarantee that each spoonful will bring a sense of warmth and comfort. So, embrace this recipe and let yourself be carried away by its aromas!