Chicken soup with various vegetables

Chicken soup with vegetables: comfort and health in a bowl

When the weather turns cold and the days are shorter, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm chicken soup with vegetables. This delicious broth is not just a simple meal, but a culinary experience that combines the natural flavors of fresh ingredients with the nutritional benefits of chicken and vegetables. In this recipe, I will guide you through the steps to achieve a perfect chicken soup, rich in taste and health.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 600 g chicken drumsticks (or a bag of cut chicken)
- 1 bag of mixed frozen vegetables (green beans, peas, bell pepper, onion, celery root)
- 2 large carrots
- 4 medium potatoes
- 1-2 tablespoons of vegeta (or other preferred spices)
- Salt to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons of sunflower oil
- A bunch of fresh parsley

A brief history of chicken soup with vegetables

Chicken soup is a traditional dish in many cultures, associated with moments of comfort and recovery. Over time, it has been considered a remedy for colds and other ailments due to its nutritional properties. This simple and healthy recipe has evolved, with each region adding its own ingredients and flavors, but its essence remains the same: a warm bowl of love and care.

Preparing chicken soup with vegetables

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by washing the chicken drumsticks well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any feathers or impurities. While the meat is draining, you can take care of the vegetables. Peel the carrots and potatoes, cutting them into medium-sized cubes for even cooking. If using fresh vegetables, ensure they are well washed and cut into appropriate sizes.

Step 2: Boiling the meat

In a large pot, add the chicken drumsticks and cover them with water. Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil. This process will take about 10-15 minutes. Once the water starts boiling, remove the foam that forms on the surface with a spoon. This will help achieve a clearer and tastier soup.

Step 3: Adding the vegetables

After the meat is well boiled, add the carrots, potatoes, and the mixed frozen vegetables to the pot. Let everything boil for 20-25 minutes until the vegetables become tender. It’s important not to overcook them, as they will lose their texture and nutrients.

Step 4: Seasoning the soup

After the vegetables have boiled, add salt and vegeta to taste. This is the perfect moment to adjust the flavors. If you like a spicier soup, you can also add a pinch of black pepper or chili. Finally, turn off the heat, add the chopped parsley, and mix well.

Step 5: Serving

Chicken soup with vegetables is served hot, ideal for enveloping you in its warmth and aroma. You can garnish it with a few fresh parsley leaves for a more appetizing appearance. It’s perfect alongside a slice of fresh bread or crispy croutons.

Practical tips for a perfect result:

1. Choose fresh ingredients: If you have fresh vegetables on hand, use them instead of frozen ones for superior taste and texture.
2. Experiment with spices: Add herbs like thyme or bay leaves for an extra boost of flavor.
3. Cook in a large pot: Make sure you have a pot large enough to allow the ingredients to boil evenly.
4. Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend some of the vegetables and add them back to the pot.
5. Cooling the soup: If you have leftover soup, you can keep it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze individual portions for future days.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of drumsticks?
Of course! Chicken breast will cook faster, so be sure to check the cooking time.

2. What other vegetables can I use?
You can add turnips, broccoli, or zucchini, depending on your preferences.

3. How can I keep the soup longer?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze portions in plastic containers.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

This chicken soup with vegetables is an excellent choice for a healthy meal. A 250 ml serving contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the amount of oil and vegetables used. It is rich in protein from chicken, vitamins, and minerals from vegetables, being a source of essential nutrients for the immune system, ideal for the cold season.

Complementary recipes:

For a complete meal, you can serve this chicken soup alongside a fresh summer salad or a cheese and spinach pie. Additionally, a dry white wine or a pale beer could perfectly complement this culinary experience.

Personal note:

This chicken soup with vegetables reminds me of evenings spent with family, when we all gathered around the table and enjoyed a warm meal. Each bite filled us with warmth and good spirits. I encourage you to share this recipe with your loved ones, turning it into a moment of connection and joy. Enjoy your meal!