Pigeon soup

Pigeon Soup - A Delicacy Full of Tradition and Flavor

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

When it comes to traditional recipes, pigeon soup is definitely a choice that brings back memories of family meals, stories shared around the table, and the joy of savoring a truly special dish. Using backyard-raised pigeons, this soup becomes not only delicious but also emotionally rich.

Ingredients:
- 4 pigeons (cleaned and halved)
- 1 potato (diced)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 1 bell pepper (diced)
- 1 small carrot (sliced or diced)
- 2 handfuls of rice (about 150-200g)
- 100 ml tomato juice
- Salt (to taste)
- Fresh or frozen parsley (for garnish)

Step by step:

1. Cleaning and preparing the pigeons: Start by cleaning the pigeons, removing all feathers and any remnants. Make sure they are well washed under cold running water. Halve them to allow for even cooking.

2. Boiling the pigeons: Place the pigeons in a large pot, add enough water to cover them completely, and bring to a boil. Let them simmer for about 30 minutes until the meat becomes tender. It is important to avoid overcooking, as the meat can dry out.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the pigeons are nearly done, add the previously chopped onion, potato, bell pepper, and carrot. These vegetables will add extra flavor and texture to your soup. Let them simmer together for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables become tender.

4. Including the rice: Add the rice to the pot and let it cook together with the other ingredients for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked. The rice will absorb the rich broth of the soup and add consistency.

5. Adding the tomato juice: After the rice is cooked, add the tomato juice and mix well. The tomato juice not only enhances the flavor but also gives a beautiful color to the soup.

6. Finalizing and seasoning: Adjust the salt to taste and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Finally, add the chopped parsley, which will bring a fresh taste and enhance the appearance.

7. Serving: Serve the soup hot, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. You can accompany it with a slice of homemade bread to complete the meal.

Helpful tips:
- Meat quality: Choose healthy pigeons raised in good conditions, as their meat will be much tastier.
- A heartier soup: If you want a richer soup, you can also add beans or peas.
- Variations: Instead of rice, you can use noodles or tapioca pearls to diversify the soup's texture.
- Storage: The soup can be kept in the fridge for 2-3 days and is even tastier the next day when the flavors have melded.

Nutritional benefits:
Pigeon soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Pigeons are rich in quality protein, and the vegetables add fiber and essential nutrients. Additionally, the rice contributes to the carbohydrate intake, providing energy.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen pigeons? Yes, if you have frozen pigeons, make sure to fully thaw them before cooking.
- What other spices can I add? You can experiment with various dried herbs, such as thyme or basil, to give a distinct flavor.
- Is the soup suitable for children? Yes, this soup is gentle and nutritious, making it suitable for the whole family.

Serving suggestions:
For a complete meal, you can accompany the soup with a fresh vegetable salad or a type of cheese. Additionally, a glass of white wine or natural apple juice can pair perfectly with the soup's flavors.

This pigeon soup is not just a simple recipe but also a way to bring the family together, share stories, and create memories. So, put on your apron, gather your loved ones, and enjoy a meal full of warmth and tradition.