Greek chicken soup

Greek chicken soup - a delight full of flavors

Greek chicken soup is a traditional recipe that combines the savory taste of chicken with the freshness of vegetables and the unmistakable aroma of lemon juice. This soup is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it perfect for cooler days or when you crave something comforting. Additionally, it will take no more than 60 minutes to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a delicious lunch in no time.

Preparation time:
- 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
- Total time: approximately 60 minutes
- Servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g chicken with bone (preferably thighs or breast)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 parsley root
- 1/2 celery
- 1 onion
- 80 g rice (preferably long-grain)
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tomato (optional, for extra flavor)
- 200 ml sour cream (preferably fatty)
- Fresh parsley leaves (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by peeling the onion, carrot, parsley root, celery, and tomato. Cut the vegetables into cubes or slices, according to your preference. It is important to grate the carrot with large holes, so it integrates well into the soup, and you can sauté some of it in a pan with a little oil. This technique will add vibrant color and a more intense flavor to your soup.

2. Boiling the chicken:
Place the chicken in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil and remove the foam that forms on the surface. This will help achieve a clear and tasty soup.

3. Adding the vegetables:
Once the chicken has boiled, add the vegetables (carrot, parsley root, celery, and onion) to the pot. Let them boil together with the chicken for about 20 minutes, until they become soft.

4. Incorporating the rice:
Add the rice to the pot and stir well, making sure it does not stick to the bottom of the pot. Boil the soup for another 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked.

5. Cream mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the egg yolks with the sour cream and lemon juice. To prevent the eggs from curdling, add 1-2 ladles of hot soup to the cream mixture, stirring constantly. Then, pour this mixture into the pot, gently stirring to incorporate well.

6. Finalizing the soup:
Add salt and pepper to taste. Finally, sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley leaves on top, adding a note of freshness.

7. Serving:
Greek chicken soup is served hot, alongside a slice of lemon and, for those who prefer a spicier taste, with a hot pepper on the table. This combination will highlight the flavors and make the meal even more delicious.

Practical tips:
- If you want a more aromatic version, you can add spices like sweet paprika or turmeric for a touch of color and a subtle flavor.
- For added texture, you can include vegetables like zucchini or green beans.
- The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the flavor improves the next day.

Nutritional benefits:
Greek chicken soup is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken, and fresh vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. A serving of soup has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream used. It is a healthy choice for a light meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, you can adapt it with turkey, and the taste will be just as pleasant.
- How can I enhance the flavor of the lemon juice? Make sure to use fresh lemons, and adding grated lemon zest to the soup before serving can intensify the flavor.

Greek chicken soup is more than just a meal; it is a cooking experience full of flavors and colors that will enrich your meals and delight your family and friends. So, don't hesitate to try it and bring a touch of tradition to your kitchen! Enjoy your meal!