Chicken vegetable soup by copilou

Chicken Vegetable Soup - a warm hug in a bowl

Chicken vegetable soup is a classic, comforting dish that reminds us of home-cooked meals, wrapped in flavors and love. This recipe is perfect for chilly days or when we crave something nourishing and comforting. Made with fresh ingredients, chicken vegetable soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Additionally, it is a simple recipe that can be adapted to everyone's tastes.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 300 g of chicken meat (chicken fat or 1-2 drumsticks)
- 1 carrot
- 1 celery root
- 1 parsnip
- 1 kohlrabi (or zucchini, according to preference)
- 1 potato
- 1 large onion
- 100 g wide noodles
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt (to taste)
- Vegeta (or other preferred spices)
- Whole pepper (optional)

A bit of history:
Chicken vegetable soup is a traditional dish that has been cooked for generations. This recipe has evolved over time, with each family adding its personal touch. It is a dish that not only nourishes but also nurtures the soul, reminding us of moments spent with loved ones.

Step by step to the perfect soup:

1. Preparing the vegetables:
Wash all vegetables well under cold running water. It is essential to remove any dirt or pesticides. Then, peel the vegetables and cut them accordingly. The carrot and parsnip should be cut into larger pieces (about 1-2 cm), while the rest of the vegetables (potato, kohlrabi) are cut into cubes of about 1 cm. The onion remains whole to enrich the soup with its flavor, but you can chop it roughly if you prefer.

2. Boiling the meat:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil (about 2 liters should be sufficient). Add the chicken meat (fat or drumsticks) to create a rich and flavorful base. When the water starts to boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help remove impurities.

3. Adding the vegetables:
Add the carrot, celery, and parsnip to the pot, as they require more time to cook. Let them boil for about 10 minutes. Then, add the rest of the vegetables, including the whole onion, and season with salt, vegeta, and whole pepper. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.

4. Finalizing the soup:
Once the vegetables are almost cooked (but not too soft!), add the wide noodles. They cook quickly, so let the soup boil for another 5-7 minutes. You will enjoy the enticing aroma that will spread throughout the house.

5. Serving:
When the noodles are ready, turn off the heat and add the chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness. If you prefer, you can remove the vegetables from the soup and serve them separately, drizzled with olive oil and vinegar for a healthy salad.

Serving suggestion:
Serve the soup hot, in deep bowls, and add a slice of fresh bread on the side. A spoonful of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil can transform each serving into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with different types of meat (chicken, turkey, or even beef) to add a personal touch to the recipe.
- Add other seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or cabbage, to diversify the flavor.
- If you enjoy more intense flavors, you can add garlic or herbs, such as thyme or dill.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins. The vegetables provide essential fiber, which aids digestion, and chicken meat is an excellent source of lean protein, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables are a practical option and can improve preparation time.
- How long can the soup be stored? The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and is even tastier the next day when the flavors have melded.
- How can I improve the texture of the noodles? If you do not like wide noodles, you can opt for thin noodles or rice, depending on your preferences.

In conclusion, chicken vegetable soup is not just a dish; it is an experience that connects us to traditions and warm moments. I encourage you to try this recipe, personalize it, and share it with your loved ones. Cooking is an art, but also a way to bring happiness into our lives. Enjoy your meal!