Hearty coconut soup

Coconut Soup

Coconut soup is a traditional recipe that reminds us of childhood, of grandparents who welcomed us home with the most delicious dishes, prepared with great love. This soup not only warms our souls but is also an excellent source of nutrients, based on poultry meat, fresh vegetables, and a sour borscht that gives it an unmistakable taste. Let's explore this savory recipe together!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Essential ingredients:
- 1 free-range chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 1 large onion
- 1 bell pepper (can be red, green, or yellow)
- 1 carrot
- 1 celery root
- 3-4 ripe tomatoes
- 1 liter of homemade borscht
- salt, to taste
- fresh chopped lovage
- homemade noodles (to make the noodles, you will need 1 egg, flour as needed, and a pinch of salt)

A bit of history
Coconut soup has deep roots in traditional cuisine, being associated with family meals and festive traditions. It is said that every family has its own recipe, adapted to tastes and available ingredients, making it a versatile and always welcome dish.

Step by step in preparing coconut soup:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by getting the healthiest chicken from the yard. Make sure it is well-fed and healthy. After you have sacrificed it, it is important to properly pluck, scald, and cut it into large pieces. Don’t forget to remove the internal organs and wash the meat pieces well under cold water.

2. Boiling the meat: Place the chicken pieces in a large pot, add cold water and salt. Bring the water to a boil, and during boiling, remove the foam that forms on the surface. This step is essential for obtaining a clear broth.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the foam has been removed, peel and chop the vegetables: onion, bell pepper, carrot, and celery. Add them to the pot and let them boil together with the meat. It is recommended to add the vegetables in the order they cook, to ensure each ingredient gets the necessary cooking time.

4. Tomatoes: Tomatoes are added later, as they cook faster. You can blanch them and peel them to make them easier to add to the soup. Once the vegetables begin to soften, it’s time to add the chopped tomatoes.

5. Borscht: Before adding the borscht, make sure it is heated to near boiling. This will add a pleasant acidity to your soup. Carefully add it and mix well.

6. Adding the noodles: After adding the borscht and letting it boil for a few minutes, it’s time to add the homemade noodles. The noodles can be quickly made at home by mixing the egg with flour and a pinch of salt until you get a smooth dough, which you roll out and cut into thin strips. Let the soup boil for a few minutes until the noodles are fully cooked.

7. Finalizing the soup: When the noodles are ready, turn off the heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh lovage on top. This will give a fresh aroma and a splash of color to the soup.

8. Preparing the main course: If you want to turn the soup into a main dish, you can remove the chicken breast and wings from the soup, fry them, and serve them alongside rice pilaf. Use the remaining broth to cook the rice, adding spices and vegetables to taste.

Practical tips:
- Make sure the vegetables are fresh for the best flavor.
- If you want a spicier soup, you can also add a hot pepper.
- Use homemade borscht for an authentic taste; you can prepare it from borscht and water, letting it ferment for a few days.
- Coconut soup can be served with sour cream for added creaminess.

Nutritional benefits:
Coconut soup is rich in protein due to the poultry meat and contains many vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. It is a nourishing meal, excellent for cold days, and has a low-calorie content, depending on the preparation method.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken instead of coconut?
Yes, chicken soup is an excellent alternative, but the taste will be different. Coconut offers a more intense flavor.
2. How can I store the soup for later consumption?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be frozen for a longer period.
3. What other vegetables can I add to the soup?
You can experiment with zucchini, green beans, or even potatoes, depending on your preferences.

What other recipes or drinks can be paired with it?
Coconut soup pairs perfectly with warm polenta and a summer salad. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or apple cider can perfectly complement the meal.

In conclusion, preparing this coconut soup is a satisfying experience that will not only fill your belly but also warm your soul. It is a recipe that connects you to traditions and loved ones, and it will surely become a favorite on your menu. Don’t forget to enjoy every step of the process and share the final result with your loved ones!