Moldovan chicken soup

Moldovan chicken soup is a traditional dish, full of flavor and warmth, that brings back memories of family meals and moments spent together. This dish is not just a simple soup, but a true blend of aromas and colors that will delight you with every spoonful. Here’s how you can prepare it, step by step!

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Ingredients

- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 medium potatoes
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsley root
- 1 onion
- 1 piece of celery
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 tomato
- 1/2 small beet
- Greens: dill, parsley, lovage
- Salt, to taste
- Thyme, to taste
- 500 ml sour borscht (pre-cooked)

Steps for preparation

1. Preparing the meat
Start by cleaning the chicken thighs. Wash them well under cold running water, then place them in a large pot with cold water over low heat. This step is essential for obtaining a clear and tasty soup. By doing this, you will allow the meat to release its flavors gradually.

2. Skimming
During boiling, you will notice foam forming on the surface. It is important to remove it every time it appears. This step will contribute to achieving a clear and delicious soup.

3. Seasoning
Once you’ve removed the foam, add salt to taste. It is advisable to add salt gradually, as you can adjust the flavor more easily along the way.

4. Adding the vegetables
After the meat has boiled halfway, it’s time to add the vegetables. Cut the potatoes into cubes, chop the onion finely, and dice the bell pepper. Grate the carrot, celery, and beet on a fine grater. Add them to the pot, stirring gently to combine the flavors.

5. Boiling the vegetables
Let everything simmer over low heat. This step is crucial, as it allows the vegetables to release their flavor and integrate into the soup. Make sure the vegetables are cooked but not overcooked, to preserve their texture and vitamins.

6. Adding the borscht
When the vegetables are almost cooked, add the pre-cooked sour borscht. This will give your soup a distinctive and fresh taste. If you prefer a more sour soup, you can adjust the amount of borscht to your liking.

7. Finishing the soup
Add the peeled and diced tomato. Sprinkle thyme and finely chopped greens (dill, parsley, lovage) for extra flavor. Let it simmer for a few minutes to combine all the flavors.

8. Serving
When the soup is ready, serve it hot, alongside sour cream and hot peppers, if you enjoy a bit of spice. This combination will add extra flavor and make the soup even more comforting.

Useful tips

- Choosing the meat: Chicken thighs are excellent for soup, but you can also use other parts of the chicken, such as breast or wings, depending on your preferences.
- Vegetables: You can add or replace vegetables according to the season or what you have on hand. Zucchini or green beans can be excellent alternatives.
- Borscht: If you don’t have borscht, you can use lemon juice or vinegar to achieve that specific sour taste.
- Storage: The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and becomes even tastier the next day, when the flavors have had time to develop.

Calories and nutritional benefits
A serving of Moldovan chicken soup has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream added. It is a meal rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables and chicken. It is an excellent choice for a balanced diet, being low in fat but rich in nutrients.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but make sure to completely thaw it before cooking to achieve even cooking.

- How can I make the soup spicier?
Add more hot peppers or spicy seasonings, such as cayenne pepper, during cooking.

- Can I make the soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of water.

Possible variations
To add a touch of originality, you can turn this soup into a Mediterranean-inspired version by adding green olives and chopped anchovies. Also, for a stronger flavor, try adding a bit of crushed garlic in the last minutes of cooking.

Serving suggestions
This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of fresh bread, spread with butter, or with a crispy green salad on the side. A cold drink, such as a fruit compote or herbal tea, will perfectly complete the meal.

I conclude with a personal note: every dish I cook reminds me of my childhood and the meals spent with family. Moldovan chicken soup is no exception, and its aroma transports me back in time, reviving my memories. I encourage you to experiment and add your own touch to this traditional recipe, giving it a personal note. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 4 chicken drumsticks, 1 carrot, 1 parsley root, 1 onion, 1 piece of celery, 1 bell pepper, 1 tomato, 1/2 small beetroot, 2 medium potatoes, greens: dill, parsley, lovage, salt, thyme, 500 ml sour borscht

 Tags:  soup chicken meat