Chicken soup with dumplings
Chicken soup with dumplings is a classic dish that evokes family memories and warmth on chilly days. This delicious recipe is not only a comforting meal but also a wonderful way to bring loved ones together around a flavorful table. So, get ready to discover how to prepare the perfect chicken soup with dumplings, which is sure to become everyone's favorite around you.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Necessary ingredients
For the soup:
- 500-600 g carrots
- 1 parsley root
- ½ celery (small size)
- 1 chicken carcass (or 1 kg chicken cut into pieces)
- 1 chicken breast
- 1 Maggi Bouillon cube
- 3-4 liters of water
- Fresh parsley for serving
- Salt to taste
For the dumplings:
- 2 eggs
- 6 tablespoons semolina
- Salt to taste
Step-by-step instructions
1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Start by washing the chicken well. Make sure to remove any excess fat or skin to get a clearer and healthier soup.
- Clean the vegetables: carrots, parsley, and celery. Cut them into large pieces for easier removal later.
2. Boiling the soup:
- In a large pot, add the water and the washed chicken. Place the pot over medium heat and let it reach the boiling point.
- When the water starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and add the cleaned vegetables. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 1 hour. It is important not to boil too hard, as the meat will dry out and the soup will become cloudy.
3. Removing the foam:
- During boiling, you may notice foam forming on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove it, ensuring that the soup remains clear and appetizing.
4. Checking for doneness:
- After about an hour, check if the meat and vegetables are cooked. Use a fork to test if the meat easily separates from the bone. If it’s cooked, add the Maggi Bouillon cube and salt to taste. Stir to allow the flavors to combine.
5. Straining the soup:
- Once the soup is ready, remove the vegetables with a slotted spoon and strain the soup into another container. This step is essential for getting a clear soup. You can keep the vegetables to add to another dish or, if you prefer, use them for a tasty salad.
6. Preparing the dumplings:
- In a bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they become frothy and airy.
- Gradually add the yolks (which have been homogenized with a spoon), mixing gently. Then, gradually incorporate the semolina, being careful to achieve a homogeneous mixture. If the mixture seems too soft, add a little more semolina.
7. Boiling the dumplings:
- Bring the soup back to a boil. Using a spoon, add the dumpling mixture, forming small balls. It is recommended to add the dumplings one at a time to prevent them from sticking together.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the dumplings cook for about 10 minutes (5 minutes on one side and 5 minutes on the other). You will notice that they will swell and become fluffy.
8. Finalizing the soup:
- After the dumplings are cooked, turn off the heat and add the cooked vegetables and deboned meat back into the soup. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for added flavor and a vibrant appearance.
Practical tips
- Choosing the meat: You can use both chicken with bones and chicken breast. Meat with bones will provide a richer flavored soup.
- Fluffy dumplings: It is essential not to let the dumpling mixture sit too long before adding it to the soup; otherwise, they will thicken.
- Vegetable varieties: You can experiment with vegetables like onion, potatoes, or zucchini, depending on personal preferences.
- Serving: This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons, adding an interesting texture.
Calories and nutritional benefits
A serving of chicken soup with dumplings contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of meat and vegetables used. This is a meal rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, ideal for boosting the immune system. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while the vegetables provide significant fiber and antioxidants.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
- Of course! Turkey has a similar flavor and can add a different note to the soup.
- How can I make the soup more flavorful?
- You can add spices like sweet paprika, freshly ground pepper, or even a few bay leaves during boiling.
- Is it possible to prepare the soup in advance?
- Absolutely! The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or you can freeze it to consume later.
Conclusion
Chicken soup with dumplings is not just a meal, but an experience that brings comfort and joy. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for any occasion and is sure to become a staple recipe in every family's pantry. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and adapt it to your personal tastes. Enjoy every spoonful!
Ingredients: 500 - 600 g carrots, 1 parsley root, 1/2 small celery, a basket of chicken, plus one chicken breast, 1 cube of Maggi Bouillon, 3-4 liters of water, fresh parsley. For dumplings: 2 eggs, 6 tablespoons of semolina, salt to taste.
