Peasant soup with chicken

Country Chicken Soup: A Delicacy from Tradition

Country chicken soup is a dish that evokes family memories, bringing to the table the authentic taste of fresh ingredients and recipes passed down through generations. This soup is not only nourishing but also comforting, perfect for cool days or moments when you want to enjoy a bowl full of flavor and tradition.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Number of servings: 5

Ingredients

- Chicken: 450 g (preferably thighs or breast)
- Fresh tomatoes: 250 g or canned tomatoes: 150 g
- Carrots: 100 g
- Celery root: 100 g
- Parsnip root: 100 g
- Parsley root: 100 g
- Onion: 100 g
- Potatoes: 100 g
- Bell pepper: 250 g
- Tomato paste: 50 g
- Borscht: 750 ml
- Salt: to taste
- Fresh parsley and lovage: for garnish

The History of Country Soup

Country soup is a symbol of traditional gastronomy, with deep roots in rural cuisine. Over time, it has evolved, with each family adding a personal touch while preserving the essence of fresh ingredients and strong flavors. This dish is often associated with Sunday meals when the family gathers around the table, setting aside everyday worries.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the meat: Start by passing the chicken through the flame to remove any hairs. After that, wash the meat under a stream of cold water to clean it thoroughly. This step not only improves appearance but also helps eliminate impurities.

2. Preparing the tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, blanch them in boiling water for a few seconds, then quickly transfer them to cold water. This will make peeling easier. Cut them into slices. If you choose canned tomatoes, rinse them under cold water to remove excess liquid.

3. Chopping the vegetables: Peel and wash the carrots, celery, parsnip, and parsley root. Cut them into triangles or cubes, depending on preference. Peel and finely chop the onion, and cut the potatoes into cubes. Slice the bell pepper into thin strips.

4. Boiling the meat: In a large pot, add 2 liters of water and the chicken. Season with salt and bring to a boil. It is important to skim the soup with a spoon, removing the foam that forms on the surface, thus achieving a clear and pleasant taste.

5. Adding the vegetables: Once the meat has boiled, add the carrots, celery, parsnip, parsley root, onion, bell pepper, and potatoes. Let it simmer over moderate heat, covering the pot to retain the flavors.

6. Finishing the soup: After about 30 minutes, remove the chicken from the pot, portion it, and return it to the soup. Add the tomato paste diluted in 50 ml of water, the tomatoes, borscht, and chopped lovage. Boil for another 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

7. Serving: Country chicken soup is served hot, sprinkled with chopped green parsley. It is ideal alongside a slice of fresh bread to enhance the culinary experience.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the meat: Opt for quality chicken, preferably from naturally raised birds, for a more intense flavor.
- Fresh vegetables: Use seasonal vegetables, as they are tastier and more nutritious.
- Variations: You can experiment with other root vegetables, such as beets or turnips. Additionally, for a spicier version, add a bit of hot pepper.
- Borscht: If you don't have borscht, you can use cabbage juice for a similar sour taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pork or beef?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using pork or beef, but the cooking time will increase depending on the type of meat used.

2. How can I make the soup more sour?
If you prefer a sourer soup, you can add more borscht or lemon juice during cooking.

3. How long does the soup last?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It is just as tasty the next day, and the flavors develop even better.

Recommended Combinations

Country chicken soup pairs perfectly with a summer salad, warm polenta, or a slice of homemade bread. For an ideal dessert, you can opt for a fruit compote or an apple pie, and to finish the meal, a fresh white wine or herbal tea would be the perfect choice.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken soup is rich in proteins, vitamins, and essential minerals, providing a balanced meal. The vegetables contain fiber, which aids digestion, and chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, beneficial for maintaining muscle mass.

Enjoy every bite of this rich and aromatic country soup, and don't forget to share with your loved ones the energy and warmth that a meal cooked with love brings!

 Ingredients: For 5 servings: fresh/canned tomatoes - 250 g, chicken meat - 450 g, carrots - 100 g, celery root - 100 g, parsnip root - 100 g, parsley root - 100 g, onion - 100 g, potatoes - 100 g, fat - 250 g, tomato paste - 50 g, pepper - 750 ml

 Tags:  soup recipes soups meat soup