Moldovan chicken borscht

Moldovan Chicken Borscht – A Traditional Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8

I invite you to discover with me the magic of Moldovan chicken borscht, a recipe that will not only warm your soul but also transport you to the heart of a culture rich in culinary traditions. It is a dish that combines the flavors of fresh vegetables with the savory taste of meat, all in a soup soured with borscht, often made at home.

A Bit of History
Borscht is a traditional dish in many cultures, but in Moldova, it holds a special significance. Over time, this recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, with each family having its own unique version. The ingredients are simple, but their power to bring the family together at the table is immense. It is a symbol of hospitality and warmth of home.

Necessary Ingredients
- 6 country chicken thighs (preferably from my mother-in-law for an authentic taste)
- 5 carrots
- 2 parsley roots
- 1 celery root
- 2 red bell peppers
- 3 tablespoons of pickled vegetables (from family recipes)
- Homemade noodles (made with love)
- 200 ml homemade tomato paste
- 2 white or red onions
- Fresh parsley leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 250 ml homemade borscht

Preparing Moldovan Borscht
Step 1: Preparing the Meat
Wash the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Then, place them in a large pot, cover them with cold water, and bring to a boil. During the boiling process, you will notice foam forming on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove this foam, ensuring that the soup will be clear and delicious.

Step 2: The Vegetables
In the meantime, peel and chop the vegetables. The onion, carrots, parsley root, and celery should be diced. The bell pepper, after removing the stem, should also be diced. These vegetables will not only add flavor but also a pleasant color to the borscht.

Step 3: Adding the Vegetables
When the chicken thighs are halfway cooked, add the chopped onion. Wait a few minutes, then add the carrots, parsley, and celery. After all these have boiled for about 10 minutes, add the bell pepper. Let them boil together for another 10 minutes, so that the flavors intertwine harmoniously.

Step 4: Noodles and Pickled Vegetables
Add the homemade noodles, which will turn the borscht into a heartier dish. After 10 minutes, add the pickled vegetables. This will contribute to a more complex flavor. Let everything simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 5: Seasoning and Finishing Touches
Add salt and pepper to taste, the homemade tomato paste, and the parsley leaves. These ingredients will add extra flavor to your borscht. Finally, add the homemade borscht and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. This is the moment when the delicious aroma will fill the entire house!

Serving
Serve the borscht hot, with spicy peppers on the side for those who enjoy a bit of heat. I suggest pairing it with a slice of freshly baked homemade bread, along with a splash of sour cream. It is simply divine!

Useful Tip
If you want to achieve an even richer borscht flavor, let it sit for a few hours before serving. The flavors will intensify, and the borscht will develop a remarkable depth of taste.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
This recipe contains approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the amount of meat and vegetables used. Additionally, it is rich in proteins, vitamins, and fibers, making it a healthy choice for a nourishing meal.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pork or beef?
Although the traditional recipe uses chicken, you can experiment with other types of meat. It is recommended to adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat chosen.

2. How can I store the borscht?
You can store the borscht in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It is also perfect for freezing, so don’t hesitate to divide it into portions and freeze it for days when you don’t have time to cook.

3. What other recipes can I make with the same ingredients?
If you have leftover vegetables, you can try a vegetable soup or a stew. You can also use the leftover borscht to make a delicious bean soup.

Possible Variations
For a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with mushrooms and add more vegetables like zucchini or eggplant. You can also experiment with different types of herbs to add a touch of freshness.

Personal Note
Moldovan chicken borscht is one of those dishes that reminds you of moments spent with family. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge after a long day, each spoonful will be a blend of flavors and memories.

So, put on your apron and get cooking! Your Moldovan borscht awaits to be made with love and passion. Enjoy!