Clear chicken soup
Clear chicken soup with dumplings - a classic recipe that brings comfort and nostalgia in every spoonful. This soup is perfect for chilly days or for moments when you want to treat your family to a delicious, flavorful dish. It is a recipe that can be adapted and personalized, but will surely impress anyone who tastes it. Let's get started!
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the soup:
- 1 free-range chicken, well cared for (about 1.5 kg)
- 2 carrots
- 2 medium onions
- 1 small celery
- 1 parsnip root
- 1 parsley root
- 2-3 medium potatoes
- 1 tablespoon of salt
For the dumplings:
- 2 eggs
- 6 tablespoons of semolina
- Salt, to taste
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the chicken
Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. This is an important step to ensure that the soup will be clear and delicious. Place the chicken in a large pot, cover it with cold water, and bring to a boil. It is essential to keep the heat low so that it doesn’t boil too quickly.
Step 2: Removing the foam
During cooking, foam will appear on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove it. This step is crucial for obtaining a clear soup without impurities. Continue boiling the chicken for 1-2 hours, until the meat becomes tender.
Step 3: Adding the vegetables
Once the chicken is almost done, add the cleaned and chopped vegetables: carrots, onions, celery, parsnip, parsley, and potatoes. Also add the tablespoon of salt, which will help enhance the flavors. Let everything boil for 30-40 minutes, until the vegetables are cooked but not overdone.
Step 4: Straining the soup
After the vegetables and meat have boiled, take the pot off the heat. Remove the chicken and potatoes to a platter. These will be served later, with polenta and garlic sauce. Strain the soup through a fine sieve or a layer of cheesecloth to obtain a perfectly clear soup.
Step 5: Preparing the dumplings
Put the soup back on the heat and bring it to a boil. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs well with a pinch of salt. Gradually add the semolina, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. It is important not to prepare the dumpling mixture before the soup boils, as the semolina will harden.
Step 6: Dumplings in the soup
When the soup starts to boil, use a teaspoon to take small portions of the dumpling mixture and add them to the soup. The dumplings will start to rise to the surface when they are done, indicating they are cooked. This process takes about 5-7 minutes.
Step 7: Serving
Once the dumplings are cooked, turn off the heat. Sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as parsley, on top of the soup for added flavor and a pleasant appearance. You can serve the soup with dumplings alongside warm polenta and a garlic sauce, which will add a perfect contrast of flavors.
Chef's tip
For an even more intense flavor, you can add a few peppercorns and a bay leaf during cooking. These will enrich the taste of the soup, giving it a aromatic and comforting note. You can also use seasonal vegetables to personalize the recipe according to your preferences.
Nutritional information
This chicken soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. The chicken provides quality protein, while the vegetables are full of essential vitamins and minerals. Each serving of soup contains approximately 250 calories, making it an excellent choice for a light yet satisfying meal.
Possible variations
If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to vary the texture and flavors. You can also use rice instead of dumplings for a heartier version.
Frequently asked questions
1. Why is it important to remove the foam from the soup?
Removing the foam ensures a clear and clean soup, free of impurities.
2. Can I use chicken instead of hen?
Yes, chicken is a good alternative, but the taste will be slightly different. Hen provides a more pronounced flavor.
3. How can I keep the soup fresh for longer?
You can store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for later consumption.
4. What other recipes can I try with leftover hen meat?
The leftover meat can be used in salads, sandwiches, or even in creamy soups.
Personal story
This recipe has been passed down in my family for generations. I fondly remember how my mother used to prepare this soup on winter days, filling the house with the inviting aroma of boiled hen and fresh vegetables. It is a dish that brings not only nourishment but also warm memories, and I hope it will become a tradition in your family as well.
Savor every spoonful and enjoy the moment! Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 1 fat and beautiful country hen 2 carrots 2 onions 1 small celery 1 parsnip root 1 parsley root 2-3 potatoes For dumplings 2 eggs 6 tablespoons of semolina salt
