Homemade chicken soup with dumplings

Chicken soup with dumplings - a comforting and flavorful dish

Chicken soup with dumplings is a classic dish that reminds us of family meals and culinary indulgence. This soup is not just a delicacy, but also a warm embrace in a bowl, perfect for any time of the year, especially on chilly days. Whether it’s an ordinary day or a special occasion, homemade chicken soup is always welcome.

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

The magic ingredients

To make a truly delicious chicken soup, you need fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you will use:

For the soup:
- 1 chicken (preferably free-range for an authentic taste)
- 2-3 carrots
- 2 parsnips
- 1/2 celery (medium-sized)
- 2 onions
- 2 bell peppers (preferably red for a pop of color)
- 1 lemon (the juice is essential for a pleasant tang)
- Fresh parsley leaves
- Salt, to taste

For the dumplings:
- 2 eggs (fresh or free-range, the better)
- 8-9 tablespoons of semolina
- A splash of oil (you can use olive oil for a stronger flavor)
- A pinch of Delikat or your favorite seasoning
- Pepper, to taste

The history of chicken soup with dumplings

Chicken soup with dumplings is a traditional dish in many cultures, often associated with comfort food. It has often been prepared by grandmothers and mothers, becoming a symbol of family love and care. The comfort and warmth that a well-made chicken soup provides cannot be compared to anything else. Each spoonful takes you back to moments spent around the table, sharing stories and smiles with loved ones.

Preparing the soup - essential steps

1. Preparing the chicken:
Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. Cut it into smaller pieces (legs, breast, back) for even cooking. This step is essential, as a quality chicken will provide a soup with a deep flavor.

2. Boiling the chicken:
Place the chicken in a large pot and add cold water, enough to cover it completely. Season with salt and bring to medium heat. Once the water starts to boil, you will notice foam forming on the surface. This should be removed with a skimmer to achieve a clear and tasty soup.

3. Adding the vegetables:
Once you have skimmed the soup, add the peeled and chopped vegetables: carrots, parsnips, celery, whole onion, and bell peppers. These vegetables will not only add flavor but also a vibrant color to your soup. Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes.

4. Preparing the dumplings:
In a bowl, beat the eggs as for an omelet and add a splash of oil, Delikat, and pepper. Mix well, then gradually add the semolina, spoon by spoon, stirring continuously. The mixture should not be too thick, but have a slightly liquid consistency.

5. Forming the dumplings:
After the vegetables have cooked and the meat is tender, form the dumplings using a teaspoon, allowing them to drop directly into the soup. They will puff up and become fluffy during cooking.

6. Finishing the soup:
After adding the dumplings, let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes on low heat. Add the lemon juice for a fresh and tangy taste, then taste and adjust the salt if necessary. Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley leaves for an extra burst of flavor.

7. Serving:
Serve the chicken soup with dumplings hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or croutons. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil for a more sophisticated flavor. This is a soup that is appreciated by everyone, from children to adults!

Useful tips

- Choose a quality chicken: Free-range chicken is ideal, as the meat is more tender and juicy, offering a soup with a deep and authentic taste.
- Experiment with vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or leeks, to diversify the flavors.
- Dumplings can be customized: If you want a heartier version, you can replace part of the semolina with flour. You can also add herbs to the dumpling mixture for extra flavor.
- Freeze the soup: If you have leftovers, the soup can be easily frozen. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its aroma.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it before cooking to achieve a uniform soup.
- What can I use instead of semolina for dumplings? You can use flour or even ground oats for a healthier option.
- How can I enhance the soup's flavor? By adding spices like thyme or bay leaves during boiling, you can intensify the soup's flavor.

Nutrition and calories

This chicken soup with dumplings is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It contains protein from the chicken, vitamins, and minerals from the vegetables, making it a balanced and nourishing meal. On average, a serving has about 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil and added ingredients.

Pair the chicken soup with dumplings with a fresh green salad or a refreshing drink, such as fruit compote or herbal tea, for a complete meal.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! Good luck in the kitchen and enjoy delicious moments! Bon appétit!