Chicken soup
Chicken soup is undoubtedly a perfect choice for chilly days, being not only comforting but also full of flavors that embrace your soul. This simple yet delicious recipe will transform your chicken and vegetables into an unforgettable soup, rich in taste. I will guide you through the steps to achieve a clear and aromatic chicken soup, worthy of the finest meals.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6
### Ingredients
- 1 kg chicken back
- 500 g chicken wings
- 200 g chicken drumsticks (or breast, as preferred)
- 1 small celery
- 2 carrots
- 1 onion
- 1 potato
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 red bell pepper (optional, for a splash of color)
- 100 g noodles
- Salt, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon curry powder (optional, for an exotic touch)
### Preparation Instructions
1. Wash and portion the chicken: Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water, then cut it into more manageable pieces. This step is essential to ensure a clean and tasty soup.
2. Boil the chicken: Place the chicken in a large pot, cover it with cold water, and add a teaspoon of salt. Bring the soup to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the temperature to low. The secret to a clear soup is to simmer on low heat, allowing impurities to rise to the surface. Skim the soup a few times, removing the foam that forms.
3. Prepare the vegetables: While the chicken is boiling, clean the vegetables. Cut the celery, carrots, onion, and potato into larger pieces. If you choose to use the red bell pepper, slice it into strips to add a touch of color.
4. Add the vegetables: After about 30 minutes of boiling the chicken, add the vegetables to the pot. They will add flavor to the soup, as well as essential nutrients.
5. Season the soup: After the vegetables have boiled for 10-15 minutes, add the vegetable seasoning and, if desired, a bit of curry powder for a more vibrant taste. Stir well to combine the flavors.
6. Add the noodles: Near the end of cooking, add the noodles and let them boil according to the package instructions, usually between 5 and 10 minutes. They will absorb the flavors from the soup and become a comforting ingredient.
7. Finalizing the soup: Once the noodles are cooked, you can strain the soup through a cheesecloth if you prefer a clear soup. Remove the pieces of chicken and vegetables, or leave them in the soup for a rustic look. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness.
### Serving Suggestions and Variations
Serving chicken soup is just as important as preparing it. You can add a slice of lemon or some crunchy croutons for a contrast of textures. You can also experiment with spices - add a bit of ground black pepper for a more intense flavor or a few fresh basil leaves for a Mediterranean note.
For a spicier version, you can add a little chili pepper or even chili sauce. If you want to turn this recipe into a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with mushrooms and add more vegetables.
This chicken soup is not just a simple recipe, but also a remedy for the soul. With each spoonful, you will feel warmer and better, enjoying the comfort and aroma that only homemade soup can offer. Delicious!
Ingredients: chicken back chicken wings chicken cutlery 1 small celery white vegetable 2 carrots 1 onion 1 potato 1 bunch of green parsley 1 optional red pepper noodles