Chicken soup (free-range chicken)

Country chicken soup - a warm embrace in a bowl

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 6

At the heart of every kitchen lies a chicken soup recipe that brings comfort and joy. Today, I invite you to discover the wonderful country chicken soup, a recipe full of flavor and health, using fresh and natural ingredients. This soup will not only warm your soul but will also bring a touch of nostalgia, evoking memories from childhood when our grandmothers prepared the most delicious soups for us.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 country chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 3-4 medium potatoes
- 1 onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 zucchini
- 1 piece of celery root (approximately 100 g)
- 1 bell pepper (preferably green or red)
- 1/2 tomato (preferably fresh)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 100 g pasta (such as noodles or vermicelli)
- 1 egg
- 200 g sour cream (for cooking)
- Salt, pepper, and lemon salt (or borscht) to taste

Recipe history

Chicken soup is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations around the world. From grandmothers who lovingly prepared it for their grandchildren to modern restaurants that give it a contemporary twist, chicken soup has a rich history. This is a versatile recipe that can be adapted according to the season and available ingredients, always bringing a smile to the faces of those who taste it.

Preparing the chicken soup

1. Preparing the chicken
Start by washing the chicken well under cold water, then cut it into suitable pieces. It is important to use a country chicken, as it will give the soup a richer and more authentic taste. Add the chicken pieces to a large pot with cold water (approximately 3 liters) and place it on medium heat.

2. Removing the foam
Once the water starts to boil (about 5-10 minutes), you will notice foam forming on top. Use a skimmer or a large spoon to remove this foam, as it can affect the clarity of the soup.

3. Preparing the vegetables
While the chicken is boiling, you can prepare the vegetables. Peel and wash the potatoes, carrots, zucchini, celery, and bell pepper well. The potatoes can be cut into large or smaller cubes, depending on your preferences. The onion, carrots, zucchini, and celery should be chopped finely to soften faster in the soup.

4. Adding the vegetables
After about 30 minutes of boiling the chicken, add the chopped vegetables to the pot. Stir well and let everything boil together for 20 minutes, until the vegetables become tender.

5. The pasta and tomatoes
Add the pasta and chopped tomatoes to the soup. These will enhance the flavor and make the soup more substantial. Let it boil for another 10-15 minutes, until the pasta is cooked.

6. Finalizing the soup
To achieve that white and creamy soup, beat an egg yolk with a tablespoon of sour cream and two tablespoons of soup. Add this mixture to the pot and stir gently, being careful not to bring it to a boil. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and, if you like a sour taste, add lemon salt or borscht, to taste.

7. Serving
Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness. The soup is now ready to serve! You can accompany it with a slice of fresh bread or croutons to complement its texture.

Useful tips

- Fresh ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and meat for the best results. If you have them on hand, you can also add other vegetables, such as green beans or peas.
- Flavor variations: If you prefer a stronger taste, you can add a few peppercorns or a bay leaf during boiling.
- Storing the soup: The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can freeze it in small portions to have it handy on busy days.
- Recommended drinks: This soup pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade for a pleasant contrast.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. The chicken provides quality protein, while the vegetables bring essential vitamins and minerals to your diet. Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, and parsley adds an antioxidant boost. This soup is perfect for strengthening the immune system and aiding recovery after a tiring day.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure it is completely thawed before using it.

- What vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with vegetables like pumpkin, broccoli, or even spinach. Each addition will give your soup a distinct flavor.

- How can I make the soup spicier?
If you like a spicier taste, you can add a few slices of hot pepper or chili flakes during cooking.

In conclusion, country chicken soup is a dish that not only nourishes but also brings joy and comfort in every bowl. I wish you much success in preparing this recipe and, above all, enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 chicken 3/4 potatoes 1 onion 2 carrots 1 zucchini celery root (one piece) 1 bell pepper 1/2 tomatoes parsley minced pasta 1 egg sour cream salt pepper lemon salt or borscht

 Tags:  chicken soup