Chicken soup with dumplings

Chicken Soup with Dumplings: A Warm Embrace from Home

In a hectic world where time seems to fly, nothing is more comforting than a steaming bowl of chicken soup with dumplings. This classic recipe is not just a delicious dish but also a reminder of family meals, stories shared around the table, and chilly days spent with loved ones. Let's explore together how we can bring this delicacy to your table, step by step.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

To make a delicious soup, you will need the following ingredients:

- 500 g boneless chicken breast (preferably fresh)
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 parsnip
- 3 green onions
- 1 celery root
- 2 white onions
- 2 carrots
- 3 potatoes
- 1 tomato
- 2 tablespoons of oil (olive or sunflower)
- salt (or Delikat, to taste)
- a pinch of salt
- 2 eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 100 g semolina
- tarragon (fresh or dried, according to preference)
- fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

A Bit of History

Chicken soup with dumplings is a traditional dish that has found its place in many kitchens over time. It is known not only for its comforting taste but also for its nutritional properties. Chicken, rich in protein, combined with fresh vegetables, transforms this soup into a balanced meal, perfect for any time of the day. The semolina dumplings are like fluffy clouds that add a soft and pleasant texture, making this soup a favorite for everyone.

Step by Step: Making Chicken Soup with Dumplings

1. Boil the Chicken Breast
- In a large pot, bring 2 liters of water to a boil. Add the chicken breast cut into small pieces to cook evenly and quickly. Let it boil for about 10-15 minutes until it turns white and starts to come off the bone.

2. Prepare the Vegetables
- While the chicken is boiling, wash and peel the vegetables. Cut the bell peppers, carrots, celery, and parsnip into small cubes. You can chop the white onion finely, and the green onions will be cut into pieces about 2 cm long. These vegetables will add a savory taste and vibrant color to the soup.

3. Add the Vegetables to the Soup
- Once the chicken is halfway cooked, add the chopped vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, celery, parsnip, and white onion) to the pot. Let them boil together with the meat for 15 minutes so that the flavors combine perfectly.

4. Prepare the Dumplings
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs at room temperature (this detail is essential to prevent the dumplings from breaking while boiling). Add a pinch of salt and gradually incorporate the semolina, mixing with a fork until you achieve a homogeneous composition, but not too thick. The ideal consistency should be slightly more fluid than a paste.

5. Boil the Dumplings
- Using a teaspoon, take portions of the semolina mixture and drop them into the hot soup. Make sure to leave enough space between the dumplings, as they will swell. Let them boil for 10-15 minutes until they become fluffy and cooked.

6. Finish the Soup
- Once the dumplings are ready, add the oil and season with salt and tarragon to taste. Add the diced tomato for extra flavor and let the soup boil for a few more minutes.

7. Serve
- Turn off the heat and add the freshly chopped parsley on top. Serve the steaming soup in deep bowls, perhaps alongside a slice of fresh bread. This soup is perfect to enjoy with loved ones on a chilly evening.

Practical Tips

- Egg Temperature: Make sure the eggs are at room temperature to prevent the dumplings from breaking in the water. If you have them from the fridge, let them sit for 15 minutes before using.
- Dumpling Consistency: If the mixture is too thick, the dumplings will be hard. If it is too fluid, they will disappear in the soup. Experiment a little to find the perfect consistency.
- Vegan Option: You can replace the chicken with mushrooms and add more vegetables (zucchini, peas) for a delicious vegan soup.
- Delicious Combinations: This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or crispy bread. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine can perfectly complement the meal.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving (approximately 300 ml) of chicken soup with dumplings contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil and vegetables used. This soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the fresh ingredients. It is also easily digestible, making it ideal for evening meals or during recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
- Absolutely! Turkey will add a different but delicious flavor.

2. How can I store the soup?
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. However, the dumplings may become tougher. It is recommended to prepare them fresh when serving.

3. Can I add other vegetables?
- Of course! Zucchini, peas, or even green beans can be added for extra texture and flavor.

I hope you enjoy this chicken soup with dumplings recipe as much as I do. It is more than just a meal – it is a warm embrace in every spoonful. Bon appétit!