Potato soup with chicken and tarragon

Potato soup with chicken and tarragon – a comforting recipe, full of flavors and memories! In this recipe, we will prepare a delicious soup that will warm your soul and remind you of family Sunday meals. This soup combines the juicy taste of chicken with the creamy texture of potatoes and the fresh aroma of tarragon, all in a hearty and nutritious dish.

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

Ingredients:
- 600 g chicken meat (ideal for soup: back, gizzards, or any preferred part)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsnip
- 1/2 medium celery
- 2 bell peppers (preferably one red and one green for color contrast)
- 7-8 large potatoes (choose starchy potatoes for better texture)
- 1 tablespoon pepper paste
- 3 tablespoons tomato puree
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Tarragon in vinegar (or fresh, as preferred)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Useful tips:
To achieve a deeply flavored soup, make sure to use quality chicken. If possible, choose meat with bones, as this will enrich the broth with a fantastic taste. Also, if you have time, let the meat simmer longer to extract as many flavors as possible.

History of potato soup with chicken and tarragon:
Soup is a traditional dish that has been cooked in households around the world, with each culture having its own variation. This potato soup with chicken and tarragon recipe is a perfect example of comfort food, being easy to prepare and full of nutrients. Tarragon, with its distinct flavor, is often added to meat dishes, giving them a fresh taste and unmistakable aroma.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the meat:
Start by washing the chicken meat under cold running water. Cut it into suitable pieces, about 4-5 cm, for even cooking. Place the meat in a large pot and add cold water, enough to cover it. Add salt (about a teaspoon) and bring the water to a boil. During boiling, remember to skim the broth as needed to achieve a clear soup.

2. Adding the vegetables:
After skimming the broth, add the finely chopped onion and diced bell peppers. Continue with the carrots, parsnip, and celery, all finely chopped. If you prefer the vegetables to have a larger texture, you can cut them into bigger cubes. Let the vegetables boil for 10-15 minutes until they start to soften.

3. The potatoes:
Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and cut them into large cubes, about 2-3 cm. Add them to the pot, stirring gently not to break the already cooked vegetables. Let them boil together with the other ingredients for 15-20 minutes until they become tender.

4. Final flavors:
When the potatoes are almost cooked, add the pepper paste and tomato puree, stirring well to incorporate. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper according to your preferences. At this point, also add the finely chopped tarragon (if using tarragon in vinegar, rinse it lightly before adding).

5. Serving:
Let the soup come to a final boil, then turn off the heat. Add the chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness. Serve the soup warm, alongside hot peppers for those who prefer a bit of spice. This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of homemade bread or crispy croutons.

Possible variations:
If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables like zucchini or green beans. Additionally, for an even more intense flavor, you can add spices like sweet or hot paprika, or even a bay leaf during boiling.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use pork or beef?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using pork or beef, but the cooking time will be longer, so make sure the meat is well cooked.

- How can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water if necessary.

- Is potato soup with chicken healthy?
This soup is rich in vegetables and proteins, making it a nutritious option. The potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, and chicken is a great source of lean protein.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is a good source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of vegetables. Chicken meat provides quality protein, while tarragon adds antioxidants and compounds with anti-inflammatory properties.

Whether you prepare it for a family meal or for a quiet evening, potato soup with chicken and tarragon is the perfect choice. Enjoy it with your loved ones and savor the flavors that will warm your heart!