Mom's soup

Mom's Soup – A Warm Embrace on a Plate

Who doesn't fondly remember the flavors and tastes of childhood? Mom's soup is that dish that takes us back to the warm moments spent with family, to the meals around which we enjoyed the love and care of our mother. This chicken soup with rice and cream is not just a recipe, but also a family story, a ritual of comfort. Come discover how you can bring this delight to your table!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Essential ingredients:
- 1 chicken (preferably with bones, for more flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetables (preferably from homemade vegetable mix, but you can also use frozen)
- 3-4 tablespoons of cream (choose a high-quality cream with a high-fat content for a creamy texture)
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 100 ml rice (preferably long-grain, which holds its shape)
- Salt to taste

Soup preparation:
1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. Remove any leftover feathers and cuts. It is important to use a whole chicken, as the bones will add extra flavor to the soup. Place it in a large pot and cover it with cold water. Add 1-2 tablespoons of salt to enhance the flavor.

2. Boiling: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the water to a boil. During boiling, it is essential to skim the soup, meaning to remove the foam that forms on the surface, to achieve a clear and clean liquid. This step is not just aesthetic but also helps to obtain a finer soup.

3. Adding the vegetables: When the chicken is almost cooked (about 30 minutes), add the 2 tablespoons of vegetables. If you are using frozen vegetables, they will thaw and release their flavors into the soup. Let it boil together for 10-15 minutes. Here you can also add chopped carrots or celery for a richer taste.

4. The rice: After the vegetables have boiled, it’s time to add the rice. Rinse the rice under cold water before adding it to the soup to remove excess starch. This will help maintain the texture of the grain. Let the soup boil for 10-15 minutes or until the rice is cooked.

5. Thickening with cream: In a small bowl, combine the cream with a tablespoon of flour. Add a little water and a few tablespoons of the hot soup broth to obtain a smooth mixture. This step will prevent lumps from forming in the soup. Pour the mixture into the pot and stir well. Adjust salt to taste.

6. Serving: The soup is ready! Remove the chicken from the pot, let it cool slightly, then shred the meat and add it to the bowls. Serve the soup hot, possibly with fresh bread croutons or freshly chopped parsley on top for an extra flavor.

Useful tips:
- If you want an even richer soup, you can add some spices like bay leaves or whole pepper during boiling.
- For a lighter version, you can replace the chicken with turkey meat.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and is delicious when reheated.

Nutritional benefits:
This chicken soup with rice is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals due to the fresh ingredients. The chicken provides essential amino acids, while the vegetables bring antioxidants and fiber. The cream, although it adds calories, contributes to a feeling of fullness.

Calories and servings:
A serving of chicken soup with rice contains approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the amount of cream used and the proportion of meat. This recipe offers 4 servings, ideal for a family dinner.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace the cream with another ingredient?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier option or coconut milk for an exotic taste.

2. What other ingredients can I add?
You can experiment with vegetables like peas, green beans, or zucchini. Each vegetable brings a distinct note.

3. Is this soup suitable for children?
Absolutely! It is a healthy recipe, easy to digest, that can be adapted according to the preferences of little ones.

Serving suggestions:
For a complete culinary experience, serve the soup alongside a fresh green salad drizzled with lemon or a glass of dry white wine.

Mom's soup is not just a dish, but a tradition, a symbol of love and care. No matter the occasion, it will always bring a smile to faces and warmth to hearts. Don't forget to share this recipe with your loved ones and create beautiful memories around the table! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: One chicken (I didn't use the breast); 2 tablespoons of vegetables; 3-4 tablespoons of sour cream; 1 tablespoon of flour; a 100 ml glass of rice; salt to taste

 Tags:  chicken soup rice soup