Coconut soup

Country-raised chicken soup: a recipe full of nostalgia and authentic taste

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6

Chicken soup is more than just a simple recipe; it is a journey back in time, to grandparents, to the fresh air of the village, and to the flavorful meals. This soup has the power to remind us of warm summer days spent in the garden, where every ingredient was grown with love and care. When we choose to cook with naturally raised poultry, we ensure that each spoonful will offer us an explosion of flavor and a feeling of fulfillment.

Ingredients:

1 country-raised chicken
4 carrots
2 parsley roots
2 pieces of parsnip
1 small celery
1 onion and/or 2 green onions
2 bell peppers
2 bunches of lovage
1 potato
salt, to taste
1 liter of borscht
1 egg yolk (optional)
100 ml sour cream for serving

Preparing the chicken soup:

1. Preparing the meat

We start by cleaning and portioning the chicken. Remove excess skin and cut the meat into suitable pieces. It is essential to choose a quality, naturally raised bird, as the taste will be much more intense. Place the meat pieces in a large pot, add 3 liters of cold water and a teaspoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat.

2. Removing the foam

As the water begins to boil, foam will form on the surface. Use a fork or skimmer to gather the foam, ensuring that the soup will be clear and appetizing. Continue boiling the meat for about 30 minutes, until it is well cooked.

3. Preparing the vegetables

Meanwhile, we take care of the vegetables. Wash and peel the carrots, parsley, parsnip, celery, and onion. Cut them into cubes, and the bell peppers into julienne strips. These vegetables will add not only flavor but also a vibrant palette of colors to our soup.

4. Sautéing the vegetables

In a pan, add a little oil and sauté the chopped vegetables for 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial, as sautéing will intensify the flavors and bring a beautiful color to your soup.

5. Combining the ingredients

After the meat has boiled well, strain the chicken broth and add it over the sautéed vegetables. Then, add the boiled meat pieces. Let the soup simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

6. Adding the potato and bell peppers

Add the diced potato and julienne bell pepper to the soup. Adjust the salt if necessary, and let it simmer over medium heat, covered, for 10 minutes. It is important not to overcook the vegetables, to maintain their crunchy texture.

7. Finishing the soup

Separately, boil the borscht in another pot. Once the vegetables are cooked, add the warm borscht to the soup. This will add a pleasant acidity and an unmistakable taste.

8. Finalizing the dish

After the borscht has been added, turn off the heat and add the freshly chopped lovage. This will give a fresh and vibrant flavor to your soup. If desired, you can enrich the soup with a beaten egg yolk and a little sour cream, but I prefer to serve it plain, with sour cream on top and hot pepper for an extra kick of flavor.

Serving suggestions

Chicken soup is served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top and freshly sliced hot pepper, to add a spicy note. It is perfect alongside a slice of homemade bread, freshly baked. An excellent combination would be to pair it with a dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade, which will balance the rich taste of the soup.

Nutritional benefits

This soup is not only tasty but also healthy. The chicken is an excellent source of protein, and the fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals for the body. Carrots and celery are rich in fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. Additionally, lovage has anti-inflammatory properties, and borscht helps with digestion and balancing intestinal flora.

Tips and variations

If you want to personalize the recipe, you can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to diversify the flavor. You can also try using different spices, such as pepper or sweet paprika, for a more intense taste. If you prefer a creamier soup, you can add a bit of sour cream during cooking.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use chicken instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with chicken, but the taste will be different. Chicken offers a more intense flavor and a richer texture.

2. How long can I keep the soup in the fridge?
The soup keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

3. Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended not to add sour cream before freezing. You can add it only when serving.

4. What other recipes can I make with chicken?
In addition to soup, chicken is excellent for making stews or casseroles, offering an intense flavor and a delicious texture.

Country-raised chicken soup is not just a recipe; it is an experience, a way to reconnect with traditions and nature. So take your time, enjoy each step of the process, and savor every spoonful of this dish full of memories and flavor!