German soup

German dumpling soup - a comforting recipe

Who doesn't love a warm and flavorful soup, especially on chilly days? German dumpling soup is a traditional dish, full of taste and comfort, that will warm your soul and stomach. This dish brings together simple yet exceptionally tasty ingredients, transforming them into a delicious meal. Let's embark on the journey of preparing this soup and discover its secrets!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
For the soup:
- 500 g chicken (preferably with bones for a richer flavor)
- 1 large carrot, cut into large pieces
- 1 medium onion, halved
- 1 potato, cut into large cubes
- 1 small celery, cut into pieces
- salt, to taste
- water

For the dumplings:
- 4 tablespoons semolina
- 2 large eggs
- 100 g cottage cheese (preferably fresh)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added flavor)

Helpful tip: Choose quality chicken, ideally from a naturally raised bird. This will significantly influence the soup's flavor.

Preparing the soup:
1. Start by placing the chicken in a large pot. Add cold water until the chicken is completely covered. Bring the water to a boil.

2. Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat and remove the foam that forms on the surface. This is an essential step to achieve a clear and clean soup.

3. Add the onion, carrot, celery, and salt to taste. Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes, until the chicken is tender and the vegetables release their flavors.

4. After the chicken is well cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. In the meantime, you can strain the soup to remove the vegetables and meat scraps. This will ensure a fine texture and concentrated flavor.

5. Once the chicken has cooled, shred it from the bones and cut it into suitable pieces. Return the chicken to the soup, along with the diced potato. Let it simmer on low heat until the potato is cooked, about 15-20 minutes.

Preparing the dumplings:
1. In a bowl, beat the two eggs. Add the cottage cheese and mix well.

2. Start adding the semolina gradually, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes, allowing the semolina to absorb moisture and become easier to handle.

3. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add vinegar or salt (optional) to give the dumplings extra flavor.

4. Using a spoon, form small dumplings from the prepared mixture and carefully place them in the boiling water. Boil them for 5-7 minutes until they rise to the surface. This indicates that they are ready!

5. After the dumplings are cooked, remove them with a spatula and let them drain excess water. If desired, you can gently toss them with a little melted butter for a richer flavor.

Serving:
To serve the soup, fill bowls with hot soup and add a few pieces of meat and vegetables. Top with the dumplings, and for a finishing touch, you can sprinkle a little freshly chopped parsley. The rich flavor of the soup, combined with the fluffy texture of the dumplings, will make this meal truly special.

Combinations and variations:
This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or crispy croutons. You can also serve it alongside a green salad for a refreshing contrast. A warm drink, such as herbal tea or mulled wine, can perfectly complement this comforting meal.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Of course! You can replace the chicken with beef or pork, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add some spices, such as freshly ground black pepper or chili, according to your preferences.

3. What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with carrots, peas, or even zucchini, depending on the season and personal tastes.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is not only tasty but also nutritious! Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while the vegetables provide a generous supply of vitamins and minerals. The dumplings, rich in carbohydrates, will give you the energy you need throughout the day.

Estimated calories per serving: 350-400 kcal, depending on the ingredients used.

This German dumpling soup recipe is perfect for any occasion and will surely become a family favorite. Get ready to enjoy an authentic and comforting taste!