Chicken soup with dumplings

Chicken soup with dumplings - a warm hug in every bowl

Chicken soup with dumplings is not just a recipe; it is a tradition, a childhood memory, a remedy for the soul on chilly days, or a natural cure against colds. This flavorful soup is a symbol of comfort and warmth, bringing together simple ingredients to create an unforgettable culinary experience. In this detailed guide, I will accompany you step by step in preparing the perfect chicken soup with dumplings, filled with flavor and love.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 75 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

- 700 g free-range chicken (preferably with bone, for a richer taste)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 large carrots
- 1 parsnip
- ½ small celery
- 4 medium potatoes
- 1 bell pepper or sweet pepper
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- ½ bunch of fresh lovage
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste

Preparing the soup

1. Boiling the meat
Start by placing the chicken in a large pot, adding enough water to completely cover it. Set it over medium heat and wait for it to reach boiling point. Once it starts to boil, you will notice foam forming on the surface. This needs to be removed with a skimmer to achieve a clear and tasty broth.

2. Preparing the vegetables
Meanwhile, peel and chop the vegetables. The onion should be roughly chopped, while the carrots, parsnip, and celery should be diced small, and the potatoes peeled and quartered. Add the vegetables to the pot along with ½ teaspoon of salt, and let them boil for 30 minutes over medium heat.

3. Adding the potatoes
After 30 minutes, add the quartered potatoes. They will add consistency and a sweet flavor to your soup.

Preparing the dumplings

1. Whip the egg whites
In a separate bowl, beat the 2 egg whites until frothy. Then, add the yolks and mix gently.

2. Incorporate the semolina
Gradually add 7-8 tablespoons of semolina and a tablespoon of oil, mixing constantly with a wooden spoon. Let the mixture sit for 2-3 minutes. It is essential that the mixture is homogeneous, but do not let it sit too long, or it will harden.

3. Forming the dumplings
Wet a spoon with water and scoop a small amount of the mixture, letting the dumpling drop into the soup. If the dumpling does not fall apart, it means the mixture is well bound. If it is too soft, add a little more semolina.

Finishing the soup

1. Boiling the dumplings
After you have formed all the dumplings, add a cup of cold water over them. Put the pot back on the heat at a moderate level, and let them boil for 10-15 minutes, turning them with a spoon halfway through to cook evenly.

2. Seasoning the soup
Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper, according to your preferences. Add the chopped parsley and lovage for an extra flavor. Let the soup come to a final boil, and it is ready!

Serving

Serve the chicken soup with dumplings in a deep bowl, sprinkled with fresh parsley on top. It is delicious to accompany it with a slice of fresh bread or crispy croutons to add an interesting texture.

Practical tips

- Choose free-range chicken: This has a more intense flavor and will enrich the soup.
- Fresh vegetables: Use seasonal vegetables for the best flavors.
- Fluffy dumplings: Make sure you do not let the dumpling mixture sit too long, or they will harden.
- Flavoring: You can also add other spices, such as bay leaves or a little garlic, for a more complex taste.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken soup with dumplings is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, with a low calorie content, making it an excellent choice for a comforting meal. Chicken is a good source of lean protein, while vegetables provide fiber and essential nutrients.

Possible variations

- Cheese dumplings: Add cottage cheese to the dumpling mixture to make them creamier.
- Spicy chicken soup: Add a hot pepper or a little cayenne pepper for a spicier taste.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but make sure to completely thaw it before cooking.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with zucchini or green beans, depending on your preferences.

3. How can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

A personal note

This chicken soup with dumplings recipe reminds me of the moments spent in my grandmother's kitchen, where the aroma of hot soup mixed with laughter and family stories. Each bowl of soup is a journey back in time, full of memories and love.

So, let us enjoy this simple and delicious recipe, which not only nourishes us but also uplifts our souls! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: * 700 g free-range chicken * 1 onion * 2 large carrots * 1 parsnip * half a small celery * 4 medium potatoes * 1 bell pepper * 1 bunch of parsley * half a bunch of lovage * salt, pepper

 Tags:  dumpling soup chicken soup meat soup philips multicooker recipes