Dumpling soup

Dumpling Soup - A Recipe That Brings Comfort to the Table

Dumpling soup is a classic, savory, and comforting dish, perfect for cold days or when we want to indulge in a traditional meal. This recipe combines the juiciness of meat with the aroma of fresh vegetables and the fluffy texture of dumplings, bringing all the ingredients together to create a delicious meal. Let's discover together how to make this tasty dish step by step, and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

- 2 chicken thighs
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 tomato
- 1 onion
- 1 tablespoon of fresh dill (optional)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 100 g of vermicelli
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 200 ml of borscht
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 eggs
- 8 tablespoons of semolina
- 2 tablespoons of oil

A Brief History of Dumpling Soup

Dumpling soup has deep roots in culinary tradition, often prepared in households around the world. It reflects the simplicity and beauty of home cooking, where fresh ingredients are transformed into comforting meals. The dumplings add a special touch, being considered a true delicacy.

Step by Step: Making Dumpling Soup

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cleaning the chicken thighs. Wash them well under cold running water, ensuring no impurities remain. Then, place them in a large pot with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Put the pot on medium heat and let it boil. During boiling, don't forget to skim the soup to achieve a clear liquid.

2. Adding the vegetables: Once the meat starts boiling, add the finely chopped onion, grated carrot, diced red bell pepper, and chopped tomato. These vegetables will give the soup a wonderful aroma. Add the tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes until the meat is tender.

3. Removing the meat: Once the thighs are cooked, remove them from the pot and let them cool slightly. Then, debone the meat and cut it into small pieces, returning it to the pot with the vegetables.

4. Adding the borscht: After adding the chopped meat, it's time to add the borscht. This will provide a pleasant acidity to the soup. Let it boil for 5-10 minutes to blend the flavors.

5. Preparing the dumplings: In a separate bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until frothy. In another bowl, mix the yolks with oil, then add them to the beaten egg whites. Gradually add the semolina while gently mixing to avoid lumps.

6. Forming the dumplings: Using a wet spoon, take small amounts of the dumpling mixture and carefully drop them into the boiling soup. The heat should be low, and the dumplings will cook for about 15 minutes. They will rise and become fluffy.

7. Finishing the soup: Once the dumplings are cooked, add the chopped fresh parsley and vermicelli. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste, then cover the pot and let it sit for 10 minutes. This step will help blend the flavors.

Practical Tip

To achieve a richer taste in your dumpling soup, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream when serving. You can also try adding other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, to diversify the texture and flavor.

Delicious Combinations

Dumpling soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or polenta. Additionally, a refreshing drink, such as fruit compote or herbal tea, can complement the meal nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey is a healthy alternative and can be used in this recipe.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add hot peppers or paprika during cooking for an extra kick.

3. How many calories are in a serving of dumpling soup?
A serving of dumpling soup contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Nutritional Benefits

Dumpling soup is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken and eggs, while the vegetables provide important vitamins and minerals. Additionally, the semolina offers complex carbohydrates, contributing to energy supply.

Possible Variations

- Vegetable dumpling soup: You can omit the meat and use only vegetables, creating a delicious vegetarian version.
- Mushroom soup: Add sliced fresh mushrooms for a rich taste and unique aroma.

In conclusion, dumpling soup is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that brings comfort and joy to every home. With each spoonful, you'll feel the warmth and love that went into cooking it. Don't forget to enjoy the cooking process and the meals shared with loved ones!