Chicken soup with imperial dumplings

Chicken soup with imperial dumplings – a comforting and traditional dish, perfect for chilly days or when you want to treat your family to a hearty and tasty meal. This recipe combines the delicate flavors of chicken with the fluffy texture of the dumplings, creating an unforgettable culinary experience. Let’s discover together how to prepare this delight step by step.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

For the soup:
- 1 chicken (ideally, use free-range chicken for a tastier meat)
- 2 onions
- 2 carrots
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red for an extra splash of color)
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste or purée (for a more intense flavor)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Water (enough to cover the meat and vegetables)

For the imperial dumplings:
- 3 eggs (at room temperature)
- 50 g grated cheese
- 50 g flour
- 50 g semolina
- 50 g soft butter (at room temperature)
- Salt, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the soup base
Start by placing the chicken in a large pot and adding enough water to fully cover it. Put the pot over medium heat and bring to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat and skim off the foam that forms on the surface. This will help achieve a clear and aromatic soup.

2. Adding the vegetables
After about 15-20 minutes of boiling, add the halved onions, sliced carrots, and diced bell pepper. These vegetables will not only enhance the soup's flavor but also add vibrant color. Let everything simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, until the meat is tender and the vegetables are softened.

3. Preparing the imperial dumplings
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with a whisk or fork until frothy. Add the grated cheese, soft butter, flour, semolina, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything well until you achieve a uniform mixture that is slightly thicker than pancake batter. It is essential not to overmix to keep the dumplings airy.

4. Baking the dumplings
Line a baking tray with parchment paper and spread the dumpling mixture in an even layer about 1 cm thick. Place the tray in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius and bake for 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Once cooled, cut the dumplings into desired shapes.

5. Finalizing the soup
After the vegetables and chicken are well cooked, add the dumplings to the pot. They will sink to the bottom and float to the surface when ready. Let them simmer together for 5-7 minutes to absorb the soup's flavors.

6. Serving
The chicken soup with imperial dumplings is served hot, sprinkled with freshly chopped parsley. You can add a spoonful of sour cream for an even creamier taste. For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a few drops of lemon juice or a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar.

Practical Tips
- Meat quality: Use fresh or free-range chicken for superior taste. Free-range chicken has more tender meat and a more intense flavor.
- Vegetables: You can vary the vegetables according to the season. For example, add celery or zucchini for a different texture.
- Dumplings: If you want to experiment, replace the cheese with sheep cheese or feta for a stronger flavor.

Nutritional Information
A serving of chicken soup with imperial dumplings contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of meat and vegetables used. It is rich in protein due to the chicken and offers a variety of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. The dumplings add complex carbohydrates, providing energy and satiety.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I replace chicken with another type of meat?
- Absolutely! You can use turkey or even beef for a heartier version.

2. What if I don’t have dumplings?
- You can simply serve the soup as is, or add homemade or store-bought noodles.

3. How can I store the soup?
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The dumplings may become soft, so it is advisable to add them just before serving.

4. What other recipes can it be paired with?
- Chicken soup with imperial dumplings pairs wonderfully with a fresh summer salad or warm homemade bread.

This recipe for chicken soup with imperial dumplings is not only delicious but also an excellent way to gather the family around the table. I wish you happy cooking and enjoying a warm and tasty meal!