Chicken soup

Chicken soup with semolina dumplings – a savory recipe for your comfort

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a warm and comforting soup that brings back childhood memories? Chicken soup with semolina dumplings is a classic recipe that not only offers a wonderful flavor but also a wealth of nutritional benefits. The chicken, rich in protein and vitamins, combined with fresh vegetables, makes this soup an excellent choice for a healthy meal.

A bit of history: Chicken soup has long been a traditional remedy for colds and digestive discomfort, considered a comforting dish in many cultures. It is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a delicious and nourishing meal.

Ingredients:
- 500 g half a chicken or 2 thighs and wings
- 1 teaspoon peppercorns
- 2 carrots
- 2 parsley roots
- 1 piece of celery (about 100 g)
- 2 eggs
- 100 g semolina
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1-2 tablespoons vegeta (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for decoration

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Wash the chicken well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any feathers and fat. If using thighs and wings, ensure they are cleaned and washed.
- Peel the vegetables (carrots, parsley, and celery) and cut them into large pieces to enhance their flavor in the soup.

2. Cooking the soup:
- In a large pot, add water halfway and put it on medium heat. When the water starts to boil, add the chicken, peppercorns, and prepared vegetables.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 1 hour and 15 minutes. It is important not to boil the soup on high heat, as this can make the meat tough.

3. Finishing the soup:
- When the cooking time is up, remove the vegetables from the soup using a slotted spoon and strain the soup into another container to remove any impurities.
- Put the strained soup back on low heat. Add a tablespoon of vegeta for extra flavor, but this step is optional.

4. Preparing the semolina dumplings:
- In a bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and gradually add the semolina, stirring constantly until you get a thick paste. If the paste is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of oil to make it softer.
- When the soup is boiling, use a spoon to take portions of the semolina mixture and drop them into the soup. Let them cook for 15 minutes. They will expand in volume and become fluffy.

5. Serving:
- When the dumplings are ready, turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving.
- You can serve the soup with fresh bread or croutons for added texture.

Tips and useful advice:
- If the dumplings break apart in the soup, add another tablespoon of semolina to the mixture. If they are too hard, a tablespoon of oil can work wonders.
- To give the soup an even richer flavor, you can add fresh herbs like thyme or lovage during cooking.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and its flavor will intensify over time.

Nutritional benefits:
- Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, contributing to muscle health.
- The vegetables used are rich in vitamins and minerals, essential for a strong immune system.
- Chicken soup is easy to digest, making it perfect for those recovering from illness.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken meat instead of hen? Yes, chicken meat will provide a similar taste, but the cooking time may vary.
- How can I enhance the flavor of the soup? Adding a splash of lemon before serving can bring a fresh note.
- Is it possible to make the soup without dumplings? Absolutely! The soup can be enjoyed plain, as a nourishing broth.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you understand how simple and enjoyable it is to prepare chicken soup with semolina dumplings. This recipe is not only an excellent choice for a healthy meal but also a way to bring comfort and joy on cold days. Enjoy your meal!