Chicken soup with imperial dumplings

Chicken Soup with Imperial Dumplings

When it comes to comfort food, chicken soup is definitely a dish that brings back warm family moments. This recipe for chicken soup with imperial dumplings is not only comforting but also full of flavor, thanks to fresh ingredients and a traditional cooking method. Whether you're making it for a gloomy day or simply to indulge yourself, this soup is the perfect choice.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

For the soup:
- 1 country chicken (about 1.5 kg)
- 4-5 medium carrots
- 2-3 parsley roots
- 1 parsnip
- 1 small celery
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 large onion
- 1 bunch of greens (lovage, parsley)
- Salt and pepper to taste

For the dumplings:
- 3 eggs
- 50 g grated cheese
- 50 g flour
- 50 g semolina
- Salt and ground pepper to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by cleaning, washing, and cutting the chicken. This type of country chicken will add an authentic taste to your soup. Place the chicken pieces in a large pot, add 4 liters of water, and place it over medium heat.

2. Adding the vegetables: Clean and chop the carrots, parsley roots, parsnip, celery, and bell pepper. Add all these vegetables to the pot with the chicken, along with the whole onion (which you can just peel to remove the skin more easily later). These ingredients will contribute to the flavor of the soup.

3. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and a few peppercorns into the pot. Let the soup simmer on medium heat for about an hour. During this time, you can skim off the foam that forms on the surface to achieve a clearer soup.

4. Preparing the dumplings: While the soup is simmering, you can prepare the dumplings. In a bowl, beat the 3 eggs well, add the grated cheese, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, mix the flour with the semolina and add the egg mixture. Mix well until the composition becomes a smooth paste.

5. Baking the dumplings: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Line a baking tray (preferably one with a diameter of 26 cm) with baking paper and pour the dumpling mixture into the tray. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until they become fluffy and golden. Once cooled, cut them into squares or shape them as desired.

6. Finishing the soup: Once the soup has boiled, strain it to remove the vegetables and chicken pieces. Place the clear soup back on the heat, add the dumplings, and let them simmer for about 5 minutes. You can adjust the taste with salt or pepper, as preferred.

7. Serving: Serve the soup hot, sprinkled with freshly chopped greens. This will not only add a colorful appearance but will also enhance the flavor of the soup.

Useful tips:
- You can add a tablespoon of olive oil to the soup for extra flavor.
- If you want a richer version, you can also use turkey or duck meat.
- Instead of cheese, you can experiment with feta or parmesan, depending on your preferences.

Nutritional information:
This chicken soup with dumplings is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken is rich in lean protein, while the vegetables provide a significant amount of fiber and antioxidants. The flour and semolina in the dumplings offer carbohydrates, essential for energy.

Vegetarian option:
If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with a mix of vegetables to create a delicious broth. Use mushrooms, zucchini, cauliflower, and many other seasonal vegetables to create a flavorful soup that is just as comforting.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking.

2. How can I store the soup for longer?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or can be frozen for later consumption.

3. What can I do with leftover chicken?
You can use the leftover meat for salads, sandwiches, or other dishes. A delicious idea would be a chicken salad with mayonnaise and crunchy vegetables.

4. What other recipes can the soup be paired with?
Chicken soup with dumplings pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a slice of homemade bread. A warm drink, such as herbal tea or mulled wine, can perfectly complement the meal.

I hope this recipe inspires you to try making chicken soup with imperial dumplings, full of flavors and goodness. Cooking is an art, and every dish brings with it a story. So embrace every step of the process and enjoy every bite!