Greek-style chicken soup

Greek-style chicken soup - A comforting delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Greek-style chicken soup is a traditional dish, full of flavor and consistency, that enjoys particular popularity among lovers of warm and comforting meals. Although it may seem like a complex recipe, it is actually simple and accessible, perfect for any cooking enthusiast. Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing this delicious soup, full of taste and textures.

Necessary ingredients:

- 2 chicken breasts (approximately 400-500 g)
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 small celery
- 1 onion
- 1 tablespoon rice (preferably round grain)
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 cup (approximately 200 ml) sour cream
- Juice of 1 lemon (or to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
- Peppercorns (approximately 5-6)
- Fresh chopped parsley (for serving)
- Tarragon (optional, for a richer taste)

Helpful tip: Use fresh ingredients to achieve a soup with a vibrant taste. Free-range chicken can provide a more intense flavor, and fresh vegetables will add a note of freshness.

Preparing the soup:

1. Prepare the meat: Start by washing the chicken breast under a stream of cold water. Cut it into cubes or strips, depending on your preferences. This will help with even cooking.

2. Boil the chicken: In a large pot, add the chicken and fill with cold water, ensuring it is completely covered. Add the bay leaf, peppercorns, salt to taste, and place the pot over medium heat. When the water begins to boil, skim the soup to remove impurities. This is an important step to achieve a clear and tasty soup.

3. Add the vegetables: While the chicken is boiling, peel the carrot, celery, and onion. Cut the carrot and celery into small cubes, and you can leave the onion whole or cut it into quarters for added flavor. Add the vegetables to the pot and let everything boil for 15-20 minutes, until the meat and vegetables become tender.

4. Incorporate the rice: Add the rice to the soup and let it boil for another 10 minutes. The rice will absorb some of the soup's flavors and will provide a pleasant texture. Make sure not to overcook the rice to avoid it breaking apart.

5. Prepare the cream mixture: In a separate bowl, mix the egg yolk with the sour cream and lemon juice. This mixture will give the soup a special creaminess and a tangy note.

6. Temper the soup: When the rice is ready, remove the pot from the heat and carefully pour the cream and egg mixture into the soup, stirring constantly to prevent the egg from curdling. Adjust with salt and pepper if necessary.

7. Serving: Serve the soup hot, sprinkled with chopped fresh parsley on top. If desired, you can also add tarragon for a more sophisticated taste. This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or crispy croutons.

Personal note: This soup reminds me of the days spent with family, when we gathered around the table to enjoy traditional dishes. I warmly recommend it, especially on cool days when you need something comforting.

Nutritional benefits: Greek-style chicken soup is not only delicious but also healthy. The chicken provides quality protein, while the vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals. A serving of soup has approximately 250 calories, making it an excellent choice for a nourishing meal.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use turkey meat? Yes, you can replace the chicken breast with turkey for a lighter version, but the taste will be slightly different.

- What other vegetables can I add? You can experiment with carrots, zucchini, or potatoes, depending on your preferences.

- How can I make the soup spicier? Add a bit of hot pepper or cayenne pepper during cooking.

- Can I prepare the soup in advance? Yes, the soup can be prepared a day ahead and stored well in the refrigerator. The taste will intensify, and the flavors will combine perfectly.

Greek-style chicken soup can be a wonderful main course, but it is also an excellent appetizer before a more elaborate dinner. I encourage you to share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy flavorful and joyful moments around the table. Enjoy your meal!