Chicken soup and dumplings
Chicken soup with dumplings - a classic recipe, full of flavor and warmth, that has brought joy to many homes over the years. This soup is not just a dish, but a comforting memory that takes us back to family meals and moments when we gather around the table. I invite you to discover the necessary steps to prepare this delicacy, which will delight and nourish the souls of your loved ones.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs (approximately 800g)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 parsley root, peeled and diced
- 1 small celery root, peeled and diced
- 2 eggs
- 8 tablespoons of semolina
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- mineral water (approximately 250 ml)
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Preparation steps:
1. Preparing the meat and vegetables
Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities. Place the meat in a large pot and add enough water to completely cover it. Season with a little salt, then add the chopped onion, which will contribute to the flavor of the soup. Let it simmer on low heat, skimming off any foam that forms on the surface.
2. Preparing the vegetables
Meanwhile, peel and chop the vegetables: slice the carrots, dice the bell pepper, and cube the parsley and celery roots. After about 30 minutes of boiling, remove the chicken thighs from the pot and place them on a plate, allowing them to cool slightly. Strain the soup to remove the onion and any remaining bits.
3. Preparing the dumpling dough
In a bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt. Then, gradually add the semolina while continuously mixing to avoid lumps. Gradually add mineral water to obtain a homogeneous mixture, slightly thicker than sour cream. Finally, add the oil to make the dumplings fluffier. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes, during which time the semolina will swell.
4. Continuing the soup preparation
After the soup has boiled for 30-40 minutes, add the prepared vegetables (bell pepper, carrot, parsley, and celery) to the pot. Return the chicken thighs to the pot and let everything simmer on low heat for another 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables become tender.
5. Forming and cooking the dumplings
Remove the bowl of dough from the refrigerator. Using a spoon dipped in water, take small portions of the dumpling mixture and carefully drop them into the boiling soup. They will swell as they cook. Add a cup of cold water to the pot, cover with a lid, and let the dumplings cook for 10-15 minutes without lifting the lid (this is an essential trick to get fluffy dumplings).
6. Finalizing the dish
After the dumplings are cooked, taste the soup and add salt or pepper if necessary. Finally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness and color.
Serving suggestions
Chicken soup with dumplings is served hot, ideally alongside a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. A glass of dry white wine or an herbal tea can perfectly complement this comforting meal.
Tips and tricks
- Using mineral water in the dumpling dough gives it a fluffy texture. Make sure the mineral water is carbonated for maximum effect.
- If you prefer a lighter soup, you can replace the chicken thighs with chicken breast or a vegetarian option using vegetable broth.
- You can also add other favorite vegetables, such as zucchini or broccoli, to diversify the recipe and add extra nutrients.
Nutritional benefits
This chicken soup with dumplings is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the chicken and vegetables. The semolina dumplings provide essential carbohydrates that will give you the energy needed throughout the day. It is a healthy choice that can be enjoyed in both cold and mild weather.
Frequently asked questions
1. Why aren't my dumplings fluffy?
- Make sure not to lift the lid during cooking and that the dough is left in the refrigerator long enough to swell.
2. Can I use other types of meat?
- Absolutely! You can use turkey or even a vegetarian option with mushrooms or tofu.
3. How can I adjust the recipe to make it less salty?
- You can reduce the amount of salt in the soup and opt for unsalted chicken or fresh vegetables.
4. What other recipes can I try with dumplings?
- Dumplings can also be used in vegetable soups or served with tomato sauces or creamy sauces for a delicious meal.
In conclusion, chicken soup with dumplings is a classic dish that brings together the flavors and warmth of home. This simple and delicious recipe will bring a smile to your face and fill your heart with joy, reminding you of loving family meals and traditions. All that's left is to get cooking and enjoy every bite!
Ingredients: chicken drumsticks 1 red bell pepper 1 onion 1-2 carrots 1 parsley root 1 small celery root 2 eggs 8 tablespoons of semolina oil sparkling water fresh parsley
