Chicken soup with vegetables

Chicken soup with vegetables - a classic, comforting, and flavorful recipe that blends tradition with fresh ingredients. This soup is not just a meal, but a story about family, comfort, and moments spent around the table. Come discover how you can transform a few simple ingredients into your pot of happiness!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 kg chicken (preferably thighs or breast)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 carrots, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 handful of peas (about 150g)
- 1 handful of green beans (about 150g)
- 200 ml tomato puree (or one cup of crushed tomatoes)
- 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable seasoning (or to taste)
- Pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or basil)
- 150 g sour cream or yogurt for serving (optional)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by rinsing the chicken well under cold running water. Choose a large pot to have enough space to add all the ingredients. Add enough water to cover the meat and bring it to a boil over medium heat. When the water starts to boil, a white foam will appear on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove this foam, which can impart a bitter taste.

2. Adding the vegetables: Once the foam is removed, add the finely chopped onion and carrots. Let it boil for 10 minutes, then add the bell peppers. These vegetables will bring extra flavor and color to your soup.

3. Potatoes and green vegetables: After the vegetables have started to soften, add the diced potatoes, peas, and green beans. These will add substance to the soup, turning it into a nourishing main dish. Let everything simmer on low heat, covered, for 25-30 minutes or until all the vegetables are cooked but still firm.

4. Seasoning: When the vegetables are cooked, add the vegetable seasoning and pepper to taste. Then, incorporate the tomato puree, which will give the soup a beautiful color and rich flavor. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes so that the flavors combine harmoniously.

5. Finishing the soup: When the soup is ready, add the finely chopped fresh herbs. Here you can experiment with different herbs, but basil adds a note of freshness.

6. Serving: The chicken soup is served hot, in deep bowls. Add a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt for a creamy taste and pleasant texture. You can sprinkle a little freshly ground pepper on top for an extra burst of flavor.

Practical tips:
- Chicken: Use meat with bones for a more intense flavor. Chicken thighs are ideal, but you can also use breast for a leaner option.
- Vegetables: You can also add other seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or celery, to vary the recipe.
- Variations: For a spicier version, add a finely chopped chili pepper at the beginning of cooking. You can also replace the tomato puree with lemon juice for a fresher taste.
- Perfect pairing: This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of freshly baked homemade bread or seasoned croutons, which add a crunchy texture.

Nutritional information:
Chicken soup with vegetables is a healthy choice, being rich in protein from the meat and vitamins from the vegetables. Almost every serving contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream or yogurt added. It is an excellent source of essential nutrients, perfect for boosting your immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, turkey offers a similar taste and is just as nutritious.
2. How can I make the soup spicier? Add fresh chili peppers or chili flakes for an extra kick.
3. Can I freeze the soup? Yes, the soup freezes well, but it is recommended to add sour cream only when serving.

This chicken soup with vegetables is not just a recipe, but a way to bring family and friends together. Every spoonful is a warm and comforting hug, perfect for chilly days or when you need a little comfort. I invite you to try it and discover the authentic taste of dishes cooked with love!