Picky soup

Fussy Chicken Soup

Chicken soup is a classic dish, beloved by many generations, that brings comfort and warmth on cooler days. This fussy soup recipe stands out for its easy preparation technique that minimizes mess and maximizes flavor. If you want a nutritious meal without getting your hands dirty, this recipe is perfect for you.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 2 chicken thighs
- 2 whole chicken wings
- 1 chicken breast bone
- 1 sprig of fresh basil
- 1/4 celery
- 2 carrots
- 1 large onion
- 2 nests of noodles
- 5 tablespoons of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 5 tablespoons of fresh lovage, finely chopped
- 250 ml of sour borscht
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Boiling the meat
Start by placing the chicken in a large pot and filling it with cold water. Add the basil sprig, which will give a delicious aroma to the soup. Place the pot on the stove and bring the water to a boil. During boiling, use a skimmer to remove the foam that forms on the surface. This step is essential for obtaining a clear and tasty broth. Boil the meat for 40-50 minutes, or until well cooked.

2. Preparing the vegetables
Meanwhile, wash and peel the vegetables. Cut the carrots and celery into small cubes, and the onion, parsley, and lovage into small pieces. These vegetables will not only add flavor but also enrich the soup's texture.

3. Deboning and cutting the meat
Once the meat is boiled, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Using a knife, debone the meat and cut it into desired-sized pieces. This method helps keep the meat tender and juicy without making a mess during the meal.

4. Add the vegetables
Return the deboned meat to the soup, along with the previously prepared vegetables. Continue to boil everything over medium heat until the carrots are well cooked.

5. Add the borscht and noodles
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the borscht and let it boil for a few moments. Add the noodles, which will absorb the flavorful broth and make the soup even more nourishing. Boil everything for 3 minutes, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Finalizing the soup
Finally, add the chopped parsley and lovage, which will bring a fresh note to the dish. Mix well and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Serving

The fussy soup is served hot, with a spoonful of thick sour cream on top for added creaminess. You can also add some crunchy croutons or a slice of fresh bread to complete the meal.

Useful Tips

- Ingredients: Always use fresh meat for a better taste. If you have a free-range chicken, the flavor will be truly special.
- Vegetarian option: If you prefer a meatless version, you can replace the chicken with mushrooms and use vegetable broth, adding even more vegetables of your choice.
- Seasonal additions: The soup can be customized with seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, adding them at the end to maintain their crunchy texture.
- Compatible drinks: Chicken soup pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or warm herbal tea, which will complement the dish's aroma.

Nutritional Benefits

This soup is rich in protein due to the chicken, and the vegetables add essential fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is an excellent choice for a balanced and nourishing meal, also being easy to digest.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Of course! Turkey will give a different flavor, but the soup will be just as delicious.
- How can I make the soup spicier? You can add some chopped chili or spicy seasonings during cooking to intensify the flavors.
- How long does the soup last? The soup can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days. It is recommended to reheat it slowly over low heat.

Fussy chicken soup is not just a delicious dish but also a true culinary treasure, full of memories and family stories. Whether you serve it on cool days or at a festive meal, it is a safe choice that will delight everyone. Enjoy!