Peasant Chicken Soup

Country Chicken Soup with Vegetables and Homemade Noodles

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

Country chicken soup is a traditional dish, enriched with fresh vegetables and natural flavors, that brings back memories of family meals from childhood. This recipe will not only fill your stomach but also warm your soul. You will discover how to make a flavorful soup that is a true indulgence and a source of essential nutrients.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 chicken (preferably free-range for an authentic taste)
- 50 ml tomato juice (you can also use fresh crushed tomatoes)
- ½ celery root
- 2-3 potatoes, diced
- 2 parsnips
- 2 green onions
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 large tomato
- 2 carrots
- 1 zucchini
- 2 white onions
- 1 l borscht
- A handful of green beans (you can use home-canned or fresh)
- Herbs: lovage, fresh parsley, sorrel
- Salt and Delikat to taste
- A handful of homemade noodles (or store-bought)
- Sour cream and hot pepper for serving

Preparing the soup:

1. Preparing the chicken:
Start by cutting the chicken and washing it well under cold running water. It is essential to remove any impurities so that your soup is clear and tasty. Place the chicken in a large pot and cover it with cold water. Put the pot on medium heat and, as the water begins to boil, skim off the foam that forms on the surface. This step is crucial for obtaining a clear soup.

2. Preparing the vegetables:
Meanwhile, wash and chop the vegetables: celery, parsnip, carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and onion. When the chicken is almost cooked (about 30-40 minutes), add the vegetables to the pot. They will add rich flavor and pleasant texture to your soup.

3. Cooking the potatoes:
After about 20 minutes of adding the vegetables, add the diced potatoes. Let everything simmer on low heat, covering the pot with a lid. It is important to keep the heat low to avoid disturbing the soup, thus maintaining a clear and delicious broth.

4. Adding tomato juice and borscht:
Once the potatoes are almost cooked (about 20 minutes), add the tomato juice and borscht. These will give the soup a pleasant acidity and vibrant color. Let it come to a boil.

5. Noodles:
When the soup starts to boil again, add the homemade noodles. They will absorb the flavors of the soup and add extra taste. Boil everything for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the noodles do not stick.

6. Finalizing the soup:
After removing the soup from the heat, add the finely chopped herbs. These will add a fresh aroma and a touch of color. Taste and adjust with salt and Delikat to your liking.

7. Serving:
The soup is served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream and, optionally, with hot pepper for an extra kick of flavor. You can also add some toasted bread croutons for a crunchy texture.

Useful tips:
- Free-range chicken is preferred as it has a more intense flavor and juicier meat.
- Homemade noodles can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, saving you time on cooking day.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavor will intensify as it cools.
- You can adapt the vegetables according to the season or your preferences. For example, pumpkin or beetroot can add a different flavor and color.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is rich in protein from chicken, vitamins, and minerals from vegetables, providing a moderate caloric intake, perfect for a balanced meal. A serving has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Ideal pairings:
Country chicken soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can also accompany the soup with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade for a pleasant contrast.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can use turkey or even beef, but the cooking time will vary.
- How can I keep the soup longer? You can freeze it, but it is recommended not to add the noodles before freezing to avoid them becoming mushy.
- What other herbs can I use? You can experiment with dill, basil, or even coriander, depending on your preferences.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! Your country chicken soup will surely be a success, bringing joy and comfort to every meal. Enjoy!