Chicken soup

Comforting Chicken Soup - A Classic Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Chicken soup is one of the most beloved recipes in traditional cuisine, a dish that reminds us of warm moments spent with family and the care provided by loved ones when we are sick or simply in need of comfort. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, being an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Ingredients

- 1 kg chicken (preferably whole or bone-in pieces for richer flavor)
- 3 carrots
- 1 celery root (or 2-3 stalks of celery)
- 1 parsley root
- 1 large onion
- 100 g noodles
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pepper to taste
- The secret of flavor (like Delikat or another preferred seasoning)

Preparation - Step by Step

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water, then cut it into smaller pieces (if you haven't bought pre-cut pieces). This will help with even cooking. Peel the vegetables: carrots, celery, parsley root, and onion. Cut them into small cubes or, more simply, you can use a food processor to chop them quickly.

2. Boiling the chicken
In a large pot, add about 4 liters of cold water. Add the cut chicken and a teaspoon of salt. Place the pot over medium heat and let it reach boiling point. It is important to skim the soup, which means removing the foam that forms on the surface with a spoon, to achieve a clearer and cleaner liquid.

3. Adding the vegetables
Once the water has started to boil and the foam has been removed, add the chopped vegetables. They will give the soup a rich and aromatic flavor. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer, covered, for about 40-50 minutes. This slow boiling process will allow the flavors to develop and will make the chicken meat tender.

4. Adding the noodles
After the chicken is well cooked, add the noodles to the soup. Let it boil for 5-8 minutes, until the noodles are cooked but still al dente. At this point, you can adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more water if you prefer a thinner soup.

5. Seasoning the soup
At this moment, add the "secret of flavor" (Delikat or another preferred seasoning) and pepper to taste. This step is crucial to elevate all the flavors to a higher level.

6. Finalizing and serving
Once the noodles are ready, take the soup off the heat and add the chopped fresh parsley. This ingredient not only gives a fresh look but also a delicious aroma. Serve the soup hot, and for an extra touch of flavor, you can add toasted croutons or a slice of fresh bread.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the chicken: For a richer soup, opt for bone-in chicken, such as thighs or whole chicken. Bone-in chicken will release gelatin into the water, giving the soup a silky texture.
- Vegetables: You can vary the vegetables according to your preferences. For example, you can add bell peppers, zucchini, or potatoes to make the soup even heartier.
- Noodles: If you want to try another type of pasta, you can use homemade noodles or even rice. Each variation will bring a different note to your soup.

Nutritional Information
A serving of chicken soup (approximately 250 ml) contains about 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of meat and vegetables used. It is a good source of protein and vitamins, making it an ideal dish for a balanced diet.

Possible Variations
If you want to add an international twist to your soup, you can include spices like turmeric or ginger, which provide an exotic flavor. You can also experiment with different types of noodles or grains, such as quinoa or barley, for a different texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw it before adding it to the water.

- Can I keep the soup for the next day?
Sure! Chicken soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Make sure to store it in a well-sealed container. It can also be frozen, but it is recommended to separate the noodles, as they may become soft upon thawing.

- What can I serve alongside the soup?
This soup can be served with a fresh green salad or a meat pie, to create a complete meal. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a warm tea can perfectly accompany this comforting dish.

Whether you prepare it to pamper yourself on a cold evening or to offer it to a loved one, chicken soup is always an inspired choice. This simple and heartfelt recipe will surely bring you closer to your loved ones and fill your home with inviting aromas. Enjoy your meal!