Greek-style chicken soup

Greek-Style Chicken Soup: A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavor

Greek-style chicken soup is a classic dish that combines the delicate flavors of chicken with the freshness of vegetables and a hint of acidity from lemon, creating a comforting and flavorful broth. This recipe is perfect for chilly days or moments when you feel the need for a boost in your well-being. Plus, it’s a simple and quick recipe that is sure to impress family and friends.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 1 chicken (about 1 kg) or chicken pieces
- 1 celery root
- 1 parsnip
- 3 carrots
- 1 large onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 lemon
- 3 egg yolks
- 300 g sour cream
- 60 g rice
- 1 additional carrot (for color)
- 3 tablespoons oil
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Hot pepper, for serving

History of Greek-Style Chicken Soup

Greek-style chicken soup has deep roots in the culinary traditions of several cultures, evolving over time. This recipe has been cherished for its rich flavor and nutritional benefits. It is said that soup dishes were originally designed as a way to utilize leftover meat and vegetables, and this soup is no exception. Thus, each spoonful is an explosion of flavors and a journey through time.

Preparing Greek-Style Chicken Soup

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Rinse the chicken well under cold running water and cut it into pieces. Choose bone-in pieces for a richer flavor. You can use chicken breast, thighs, or even a combination of both. Place the chicken in a large pot, add water, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, skim off the foam that forms on the surface with a ladle. This step is important for achieving a clear and impurity-free soup.

Step 2: Adding the Vegetables

Peel the vegetables (celery, parsnip, carrots, and onion) and cut them into large pieces. It’s important to cut the vegetables evenly for uniform cooking. Add the vegetables to the pot with the boiled chicken. Cover with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about an hour. The aroma will start to fill the kitchen, creating a warm and comforting atmosphere.

Step 3: Preparing the Soup

After an hour, remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool. Strain the soup to remove the vegetables. They will have imparted all their flavor into the broth. Cut the meat into strips or cubes, depending on your preference.

To add extra texture, blend half of the cooked vegetables (excluding the bell pepper) until you achieve a smooth paste. Stir this paste into the soup, mixing well.

Step 4: Cooking the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch and prevent sticking. Cook it separately in salted water. Once done, drain it and set it aside.

Step 5: Preparing the Egg and Sour Cream Mixture

In a larger bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sour cream until creamy and smooth. It’s essential to mix well to avoid curdling the mixture. Add a few ladles of warm soup (6-7) to the egg and sour cream mixture, stirring constantly to temper the eggs. Then, gradually pour the mixture into the pot with the soup, stirring continuously with a spoon or ladle.

Step 6: Finalizing the Soup

Add the cut chicken and drained rice to the pot with the soup. Squeeze the juice from half a lemon, tasting constantly to adjust the acidity. You can add more according to your preference. Season with salt to taste. In a skillet, sauté the remaining grated carrot in oil until golden. Add the sautéed carrot on top of the soup for extra color and flavor.

Step 7: Serving

Let the soup simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors. Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped parsley. Serve the Greek-style chicken soup with hot pepper on the side for those who prefer a touch of spice.

Practical Tips:

1. Vegetarian Option: You can substitute the chicken with mushrooms or tofu, and replace the meat with vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower, adapting the recipe to your preferences.

2. Rice: Feel free to experiment with different types of rice, such as basmati or brown rice, for a different texture.

3. Acidity: Adjust the lemon juice according to your taste, but remember that overly sour soup can disrupt the balance of flavors.

4. Serving: Greek-style chicken soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or toasted croutons.

5. Storage: The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it’s best to add the rice just before serving to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid.

Nutritional Benefits

Greek-style chicken soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The chicken provides quality protein, the vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, and the eggs and sour cream add a boost of calcium and healthy fats. This combination makes chicken soup an excellent choice for a nourishing and comforting meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey can be a tasty and leaner alternative.

2. Is Greek-style chicken soup suitable for a diet?
Yes, due to its natural and nutrient-rich ingredients, it is a healthy option.

3. Can I freeze the soup?
The soup can be frozen, but it’s recommended not to include the rice at the time of freezing to maintain texture.

Conclusion

Greek-style chicken soup is more than just a simple soup; it’s an explosion of flavors and a symbol of warmth and comfort. Whether you prepare it for a family meal or to delight your friends, this recipe is sure to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy every spoonful and cherish every moment spent in the kitchen!