Chicken soup with dumplings

Chicken soup with dumplings – a traditional recipe, perfect for family Sunday meals, bringing a touch of warmth and comfort in every bowl. This soup is not only a delicious dish but also a remedy for the soul, with a rich history in our cuisine, cherished by generations.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Main ingredients:

- 1 kg chicken (thighs and wings)
- 4 medium carrots
- 2-3 parsley roots
- 1 piece of celery root
- 1 large onion
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley leaves

For dumplings:

- 1 large egg
- 3.5 tablespoons semolina
- A dash of oil
- A pinch of salt

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by placing a large pot with about 3.5 liters of water on the heat. When the water reaches boiling point, add the well-washed chicken. Let it boil for a few minutes to form a foam on top. Remove this foam with a skimmer, ensuring the soup will be clear and clean.

2. The vegetables: While the meat is boiling, wash the vegetables well. Finely chop the onion and red bell pepper, and slice the carrots, parsley, and celery into rounds. After removing the foam, add the chopped vegetables to the soup. They will add a special taste and delicious aroma.

3. Seasoning: Add salt and pepper to taste. Let everything boil over medium heat, making sure to remove the foam if necessary. The soup will need about 40 minutes to boil well, and the meat will become tender.

4. Preparing the dumplings: In a bowl, whisk the egg well. Gradually add the semolina while constantly stirring to avoid lumps. Add salt and oil and mix again until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.

5. The dumplings: When the soup is almost ready, take a teaspoon of the dumpling mixture and carefully place it in the boiling soup. Sprinkling the dumplings with cold water will make them puff up and become fluffy. After 5 minutes, turn them over with a spoon and repeat the process with cold water. The dumplings will be ready in about 10 minutes.

6. Finalizing the soup: Once the dumplings are cooked, remove the soup from the heat and add the chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness and flavor.

Serving: Chicken soup with dumplings is served hot, with a slice of fresh bread on the side. This recipe can be personalized by adding crunchy croutons or a teaspoon of sour cream for an even richer taste.

Nutritional benefits: Chicken soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, while the vegetables bring essential vitamins and minerals. The semolina dumplings, although rich in carbohydrates, provide an energy boost and are easy to digest.

Tips and variations: You can experiment with different types of meat, such as chicken breast or even turkey. Additionally, adding spices like rosemary or basil can provide a unique flavor. If you want a lighter version, you can skip the dumplings and serve the soup with thin noodles.

Frequently asked questions:

- How can I make the soup more flavorful?
You can add spices like bay leaves, thyme, or even a dash of soy sauce for a more intense flavor.

- What other garnishes can I use?
Bread croutons, grated cheese, or even a drizzle of olive oil are excellent options!

- Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, chicken soup can be frozen, but it is recommended not to freeze the dumplings as they may become mushy upon thawing.

This chicken soup with dumplings recipe is perfect for creating beautiful memories with family and friends. Whether you make it every Sunday or for special occasions, it will never go unnoticed. Enjoy your meal!