Greek-style chicken soup

Greek-style chicken soup is one of those dishes that not only warms your soul but also reminds you of moments spent with family around the table. This delicious recipe, with a rich aroma and creamy taste, is perfect for chilly days or any occasion when you want to impress. Preparing the soup takes a little time and patience, but it's worth every minute. Let's discover together the steps needed to achieve the perfect Greek-style chicken soup!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 300 g chicken breast (or chicken thighs, depending on your preference)
- 1 large onion
- 3 carrots
- 2 pieces of parsnip
- 1 piece of celery
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon of vegeta (or sea salt)
- 5-6 peppercorns
- 1 cup of rice
- Himalayan pink salt (to taste)
- 3 egg yolks
- juice from ½ lemon (can be adjusted to taste)
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream

Useful tips and ingredient details:

- Chicken breast: Provides a lighter soup. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can opt for thighs.
- Vegetables: Carrots, parsnip, celery, and onion add sweetness and flavor. Make sure they are fresh and well-cleaned.
- Rice: Adds consistency to the soup. You can also use basmati rice for a different flavor.
- Lemon juice: Essential for giving the soup a fresh and tangy note. Adjust the amount according to your preferences.
- Sour cream: Provides a creamy texture to the soup. If you want a lighter version, you can replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt.

Step by step:

1. Initial preparation: In a 5-liter pot, add cold water and a little salt. Place it over medium heat until it begins to boil.

2. Cooking the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the water and let them boil. You will notice foam forming on the surface. Use a spoon to remove the foam, repeating this process until no more foam remains.

3. Adding the vegetables: Clean and wash the onion, carrots, parsnip, and celery. Cut them into large pieces and add them to the pot. These will add flavor and nutrients. Also, add the peppercorns and vegeta (or salt) to taste.

4. Boiling: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about an hour. The aroma will be irresistible!

5. Adding the rice: After an hour, add the washed rice. It will absorb the flavors and add consistency to the soup. Let it boil for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked.

6. Preparing the egg sauce: In a bowl, beat the egg yolks well with the lemon juice and the 2 tablespoons of sour cream. This mixture will add a special creaminess to the soup.

7. Tempering the mixture: Take a ladle of soup and gradually add it to the egg mixture, stirring constantly to avoid curdling the eggs.

8. Finalizing the soup: Gradually pour the egg mixture into the pot with the soup, stirring continuously to achieve a smooth texture. Add the bell pepper cut into large pieces and let the soup simmer for a few more minutes.

9. Serving: Finally, add the chopped parsley and serve the soup hot, with hot peppers on the side if you enjoy a spicy taste.

Useful tips:

- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans, to vary the recipe. You can also use turkey or even fish for a different version.
- Storing the soup: Greek-style chicken soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It can be reheated without any problems.
- Recommended drinks: Such a savory soup pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or herbal tea for a truly comforting meal.

Nutritional benefits:

This soup is rich in protein due to the chicken, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. The rice adds complex carbohydrates, offering long-lasting energy. Additionally, the sour cream and egg yolks help maintain skin health and support the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
- Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before starting to cook.

2. How much lemon juice should I add?
- Start with ½ lemon and adjust to taste. You can add more for a stronger flavor.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
- No, but you can adapt the recipe using vegetables and vegetable broth instead of meat for a vegan version.

Greek-style chicken soup is more than just a recipe; it is a tradition, a story, a moment of connection. Whether you prepare it for yourself or for loved ones, each spoonful will bring a smile to your faces. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this delicious soup!

 Ingredients: chicken breast approx. 300 g, one onion, three carrots, two pieces of parsley root, one piece of celery, a bunch of fresh parsley, yellow and green bell peppers, vegeta, whole pepper, one cup of rice, pink Himalayan salt, three egg yolks, juice from half a lemon, two tablespoons of sour cream.

 Tags:  greek-style chicken soup