Chicken soup with dumplings
Chicken Noodle Soup – a traditional recipe full of flavor and warmth
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 6
Chicken noodle soup is a dish that evokes family memories, moments spent around the table, and the joy of a warm and comforting meal. This simple and quick recipe, full of healthy ingredients, is perfect for chilly days or to treat your loved ones to a delicious dish. Let’s begin the culinary journey!
Ingredients
For the soup:
- 500 g chicken meat (preferably thighs or breast for a rich flavor)
- 1 large onion
- 1 bell pepper (any color, for an extra splash of color)
- 1 carrot
- 500 ml sour borscht (or more, to taste)
- Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, celery, lovage – your choice)
- Salt, to taste
For the noodles:
- 1 egg
- 50 g flour
- Water, as needed
The History of Chicken Noodle Soup
Chicken noodle soup has deep roots in culinary traditions, originating from the kitchens of skilled housewives who transformed simple ingredients into comforting dishes. This soup is not just a meal but a story of grandmothers teaching us to appreciate the flavor of each ingredient and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken noodle soup is best served hot, with a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons for a pleasing contrast of textures. You can add a spoonful of sour cream to enhance the flavor and add extra creaminess.
Preparation Method
1. Boiling the meat: Start by placing the chicken meat in a large pot and adding cold water, enough to completely cover the meat. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat. As the water begins to boil, remove the foam that forms on the surface with a skimmer. This step is essential for obtaining a clear broth.
2. Adding vegetables: Once the meat has boiled for about 20-30 minutes, add the finely chopped onion, grated carrot, and chopped bell pepper. These vegetables will add sweetness and flavor to your soup.
3. Slow boiling: Let the soup simmer on low heat, covered, for another 20 minutes. It is important to maintain a low flame to allow the flavors to develop and combine.
4. Adding the borscht: After the vegetables have softened, add the pre-boiled borscht. This will give the soup a characteristic sour taste. Finally, add the chopped fresh herbs and let it boil for another 10 minutes.
5. Preparing the noodles: In a bowl, beat the egg and add the flour, mixing with a fork. Gradually add water until you obtain a soft consistency similar to that of a dough. Place the dough in a paper cone or a plastic bag, which you will squeeze from top to bottom.
6. Pouring the noodles: With one hand, gently squeeze the cone or bag and let the noodles fall into the soup. The opening of the cone should be the size of a peppercorn, so that the noodles come out as thin strands.
7. Final boiling: Let the soup boil together with the noodles for another 5-10 minutes, until they are cooked. Taste and adjust with salt as desired.
Tips and Useful Advice
- Meat: Use bone-in chicken (e.g., thighs) for a richer flavor. The bone will add flavor and make the soup heartier.
- Vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, for extra nutrients and texture.
- Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
- Spicy soup: Add a hot pepper to the soup for a spicy kick.
- Fresh trout: The soup is just as delicious if you decide to use fish, especially trout or carp.
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken noodle soup provides a good source of protein from the chicken meat, while the vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals. This soup is a healthy option for a balanced meal, with a relatively low caloric content, around 150-200 calories per serving, depending on the amount of meat and vegetables used.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, you can use turkey, and the soup will have a different flavor but will be just as delicious.
- How long can I keep the soup in the fridge? The soup can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it well!
- Can I freeze the soup? Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it’s better to add fresh noodles after thawing to avoid them becoming too soft.
Chicken noodle soup is more than just a recipe; it is a symbol of culinary tradition and family love. Each spoonful will take you back in time, bringing warm memories and the joy of cooking at home. So, put on your apron, turn on the heat, and let your imagination create a delicacy that will bring smiles to your loved ones' faces. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 500 g chicken meat, 1 onion, 1 bell pepper, 1 carrot, 500 ml sour borscht, greens (parsley, dill, celery, lovage). For the batter: 1 egg, 50 g flour, salt.
