Chicken soup with dried plums
Chicken soup with dried plums - a recipe that blends tradition with flavor
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 6
Chicken soup with dried plums may seem like an unusual combination at first glance, but if you try it, you will discover a perfect mix between the savory taste of chicken and the subtle sweetness of plums. This recipe reminds me of my childhood, of the frosty winters when my grandmother lovingly prepared this soup, providing not just nourishment but also comfort. So, let's get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken (ideally a country chicken back for a more intense flavor)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 parsnips, peeled and diced
- 1/2 celery, grated or diced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup of broth (approximately 250 ml)
- 150 g dried plums, pitted
- 100 g homemade noodles (optional)
- 1-2 sprigs of thyme (fresh or dried)
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage, finely chopped
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
1. Preparing the meat
The first step is to wash the chicken well under cold running water to remove impurities. Cut the meat into suitable pieces. If you use country chicken back, you will get a richer-flavored soup.
2. Boiling the meat
Place the pieces of meat in a large pot, add cold water (about 3 liters), and bring to a boil. Don't forget to skim the soup a few times to remove the foam that forms on the surface, thus obtaining a clear and clean soup.
3. Adding the vegetables
After the meat has boiled for 15 minutes, add the finely chopped onion, carrots, parsnips, and celery. These vegetables not only enhance the soup's flavor but also give it a pleasant texture. Add salt to taste and let it simmer over medium heat for 20 minutes.
4. Adding the broth and spices
When the vegetables are almost cooked, add the broth and thyme. These will give the soup a special aroma. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. The plums and noodles
Wash the dried plums under cold water and add them to the pot. They will bring a touch of sweetness to the soup. Also, add the noodles (if using) and let everything simmer on low heat for another 5-10 minutes, until the noodles are ready.
6. Finishing the soup
Before serving, adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Add the finely chopped lovage and parsley for an extra freshness. This is the stage where the dish becomes truly special.
Serving
Serve the soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread, maybe even a hot pepper for those who like a bit of spice. This combination will turn winter meals into an unforgettable experience.
Practical tips
- Buying ingredients: Choose high-quality chicken, preferably from local farmers, for a more authentic taste. For vegetables, opt for fresh, seasonal ones.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans, to diversify the recipe. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of noodles.
- Extra aroma: If you want a stronger flavor, you can add a few peppercorns or bay leaves at the beginning of the cooking process.
Nutritional benefits
Chicken soup with dried plums is not only delicious but also nutritious. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, while the vegetables provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Dried plums, besides their natural sweetness, also contribute to digestive health.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, turkey is a healthy alternative and will give the soup a different flavor.
- How can I store the soup? You can keep the soup in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can freeze it for later use, but it is recommended to add the noodles only at the time of serving to avoid them becoming mushy.
- What other recipes go well with this? Chicken soup with plums pairs perfectly with a cheese platter or a fresh green salad, and for dessert, an apple pie will finish the meal on a sweet note.
Chicken soup with dried plums is not just a meal, but a story in every spoonful. I encourage you to try it and share it with your loved ones, because in the end, cooking is about creating memories and bringing people together. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: chicken meat, 1 onion, 2 carrots, 2 parsnips, 1/2 celery, 2 peppers, 1 cup broth, 150 g dried plums without pits, homemade noodles, thyme, lovage, fresh parsley, salt, pepper
