Chicken soup

Chicken soup – A comforting indulgence for the soul and stomach

Chicken soup is more than just a simple meal; it is a tradition, a symbol of comfort and family warmth. This classic recipe is perfect for cool days or when you need a soup that embraces your senses. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow preparation techniques, you will create a delicious soup full of flavors and health. Let's embark on this culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 1 chicken (about 1.250 kg)
- 2 liters of cold water
- 500 ml of borscht or juice from 1 lemon
- 1 large carrot
- 1 bell pepper (preferably green or red for added color)
- 1 slice of celery
- 2 medium onions
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons lamb's quarters (optional, for a unique taste)
- Homemade noodles (or buy for a quick preparation)

Some details about the ingredients:
- Chicken: Choose a quality chicken, preferably raised traditionally, to obtain a rich and flavorful soup. Chicken meat is an excellent source of protein and low in fat, making it ideal for a healthy diet.
- Vegetables: Carrot and bell pepper add sweetness and extra nutrients, while celery provides a distinct flavor. Onion, a staple ingredient in most recipes, contributes to a rich flavor base.
- Borscht or lemon juice: These are used to give the soup a pleasant acidity, balancing the flavors. Borscht is a traditional choice, but lemon juice offers a fresh note, perfect for warm days.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by cleaning and washing the chicken well. Make sure to remove any leftover feathers or internal organs.

2. Boiling the meat: In a large pot, add the chicken and cold water. Place the pot over medium heat and wait for it to reach boiling point. Once the water starts to boil, remove the foam that forms on the surface. This step is essential for obtaining a clear and tasty soup.

3. Adding the vegetables: When the chicken is halfway cooked, add the diced carrot, bell pepper, celery, and onion. These vegetables will not only enrich the soup's flavor but also give it a pleasant texture. Don’t forget to add salt, pepper, and thyme to taste.

4. Preparing the noodles: Meanwhile, you can prepare the homemade noodles. If using store-bought noodles, follow the instructions on the package for proper cooking.

5. Straining the soup: After about an hour of boiling, when the chicken and vegetables are well cooked, strain the soup into another pot. This step will help you achieve a clear and appetizing broth.

6. Boiling the noodles: Put the strained soup back on the heat and, when it starts to boil, add the noodles. Cook them according to the instructions, usually between 5-10 minutes.

7. Adding the meat and vegetables: When the noodles are almost done, add the chicken cut into suitable pieces and the cooked vegetables. Now is the time to sour the soup with the boiled borscht or lemon juice. Add gradually, tasting in between, to achieve the desired acidity.

8. Finalizing the dish: Finally, add the finely chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness. Turn off the heat and let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving.

9. Serving: Chicken soup is served hot, ideally alongside a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. You can also add a bit of hot pepper for those who love a kick of spice.

Practical tips:
- If you want to add a different flavor, you can experiment with herbs like lovage or basil.
- Chicken soup is perfect for storing in the fridge, and the flavor intensifies the next day.
- Instead of noodles, you can use rice or cornmeal dumplings for a different variation.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken meat instead of hen? Yes, but the flavor will be different.
2. How can I make the soup thicker? Add more vegetables or noodles.
3. Can the soup be frozen? Yes, but it is recommended to consume it fresh for the best flavors.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of chicken soup (about 250 ml) contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, providing benefits for the immune system, digestion, and skin health.

Chicken soup is a versatile dish, full of tradition and love. When you prepare it, you not only nourish your body but also your soul. Don’t forget to share your success with loved ones! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 chicken about 1.250 kg, 2 liters of water, 1/2 liter of borscht or juice squeezed from one lemon, 1 carrot, 1 bell pepper, 1 slice of celery, 2 onions, 1 teaspoon of fresh parsley, 1/2 salt, pepper, thyme, 2 teaspoons of orache, homemade noodles

 Tags:  chicken soup