Chicken soup

Chicken soup with vegetables is a traditional recipe that reminds us of family meals and moments spent with loved ones. This soup not only combines the delicious flavors of fresh vegetables, but also offers a comforting taste, perfect for cool days. With a rich texture and an inviting aroma, this soup quickly becomes a favorite in any household.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g chicken breast (preferably from a naturally raised bird)
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 large carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 1 large onion
- 6 medium potatoes
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 500 ml borscht (or Knorr/Maggi magic borscht, 2-3 tablespoons, to taste)
- 4-5 tablespoons of water
- Oil for sautéing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegeta (optional)
- Sour cream for serving
- 2 egg yolks (optional, for thickening the soup)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables:
Start by peeling and washing all the vegetables. The onion, bell peppers, carrot, and parsnip should be chopped into small pieces, while the potatoes should be peeled and diced. This step is essential for even cooking of the vegetables. Use a sharp knife to make this task easier.

2. Sautéing the vegetables:
In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of sunflower oil and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrot, parsnip, red and yellow peppers. Turn off the heat, add 4-5 tablespoons of water, and cover the pot with a lid. Let the vegetables sauté for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.

3. Adding the chicken:
Once the vegetables are soft, add the diced chicken breast. Add a little water, salt, and pepper to taste. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, until the chicken is white and tender.

4. Adding the potatoes:
After the chicken is cooked, add 3 liters of water and the diced potatoes. You can now add a teaspoon of Vegeta if you want an extra flavor. Let it boil over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, until the potatoes are soft.

5. Adding the borscht:
Towards the end, add the borscht. If you are using store-bought borscht, adjust the quantity according to your preferences. Taste and, if necessary, add more salt, pepper, or Vegeta. Add the chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness and flavor.

6. Thickening the soup:
If you want to thicken the soup, beat the two egg yolks with sour cream until smooth. Take a few tablespoons of hot soup and gradually add them to the yolk and sour cream mixture, stirring continuously to avoid curdling the egg. Then, pour this mixture into the pot with the soup, stirring well.

7. Serving:
Serve the soup hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top and, optionally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley. A slice of homemade bread on the side will make this meal a truly comforting experience.

Practical tips:
- Quality ingredients: Use chicken breast from a naturally raised bird for better taste. Choose fresh, seasonal vegetables to benefit from maximum nutrients and flavor.
- Adjusting acidity: If you prefer a more sour soup, you can add more borscht or even lemon juice.
- Variations: Experiment by adding other vegetables, such as zucchini or celery. You can also replace the chicken breast with pork or beef, but the cooking time will differ.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The vegetables used provide a mix of fiber and antioxidants, essential for immune system health. Additionally, the sour cream adds calcium and healthy fats, making it a perfect complement to a balanced meal.

Pairings and suggestions:
This soup pairs perfectly with a green salad or a beet salad. For an extra touch of flavor, serve it alongside a cup of mint tea or a glass of dry white wine.

Frequently asked questions:
- How long can the soup be stored? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
- Can I use store-bought borscht? Yes, store-bought borscht is a convenient option, but make sure to choose a quality one. Homemade borscht offers a more authentic taste.
- Can the soup be frozen? The soup can be frozen, but it is recommended not to add sour cream before freezing, as it may affect the texture. Add the sour cream only when reheating.

This chicken soup with vegetables recipe is not only easy to make but also full of flavor and warmth, perfect for sharing with loved ones. I encourage you to try it and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: larger chicken breast 1 red bell pepper 1 yellow bell pepper salt .pepper .vegeta 1 larger carrot 6 potatoes 1 parsnip 1 large onion 1 bunch of parsley 500ml bors (or magic bors from Knorr or Maggi 2-3 tablespoons, to taste)

 Tags:  chicken soup chicken breast carrots pepper parsnip borscht