Snail Soup (Soup with snail-shaped pasta)

Snail Pasta Soup (Csigaleves) – A Recipe from Childhood Memories

Who doesn't fondly remember the days when the aroma of a warm soup filled the house and brought the whole family together? Snail pasta soup, known as csigaleves, is a recipe that not only nourishes but also combines tradition with unforgettable moments of childhood. This soup is not just a dish; it is a family story, a ritual that blends the joy of cooking with love for those dear to us.

Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

- 300 g chicken (or hen/stork meat)
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 parsley root
- ½ celery
- 1 parsnip
- 2 yellow onions
- ½ kohlrabi
- Iodized salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- 100 g snail pasta (csiga)
- Fresh parsley for garnish

Ingredient details

Chicken is a versatile ingredient, but for a more intense flavor, you can opt for hen or rooster meat. These types of meat provide a richer, deeper taste, ideal for cool days. The vegetables are essential for adding flavor to the soup, and their choice can vary. Carrots add sweetness, celery and parsley provide freshness, while kohlrabi adds a slightly spicy note.

Soup preparation

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the chicken into suitable pieces. Place it in a large pot with cold water, add a teaspoon of salt, and bring to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, skim the soup to remove impurities.

2. Adding the vegetables: Peel and cut the vegetables into large pieces: carrots, parsley root, celery, parsnip, onion, and kohlrabi. Add them to the pot, reducing the heat to medium. Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes. This is the stage where the flavors combine and the soup becomes delicious.

3. Straining the soup: After the meat and vegetables are cooked, strain the soup into another pot. This step is essential for obtaining a clear and flavorful liquid.

4. Cooking the pasta: Put the strained soup back on the heat and add the snail pasta. Cook for about 10 minutes or until al dente. These pasta add a pleasant texture to the soup and are also an ingredient that ties memories of home.

5. Serving: Finally, you can add sliced boiled carrots and deboned meat to the soup. Another option is to serve the vegetables separately on a platter, allowing everyone to choose what they want.

6. Garnishing: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving for an extra touch of freshness and color.

Serving suggestions

Snail pasta soup is served hot, accompanied by a slice of fresh bread or even a savory pie. A delicious alternative would be to enjoy it alongside a summer salad with fresh vegetables, providing a perfect contrast between hot and cold.

Tips and variations

If you want to bring a unique note to the soup, you can add a teaspoon of sweet or spicy paprika during cooking for a more intense flavor. You can also experiment with different types of pasta, such as whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, to adapt the recipe to your preferences.

Nutritional benefits

This soup is not only comforting but also nutritious. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, while vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. Parsley, besides enhancing the flavor, also brings a healthy dose of antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of meat? Certainly! You can replace chicken with beef or even fish for a lighter version.
- Is this soup suitable for a diet? Yes, this recipe is relatively low in calories due to the fresh vegetables and lean meat. It is an excellent choice for those looking to eat healthily.
- How can I store the soup? You can keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. To reheat, add a little water to achieve the desired consistency.

Conclusion

This snail pasta soup is not just a recipe but a living memory of childhood, a moment of joy shared with loved ones. Cook it with love and enjoy every bite! Let your imagination soar and personalize the recipe to your taste, turning it into a part of your culinary story. Perhaps, like me, you will discover that each bowl of soup brings with it a part of your soul.

 Ingredients: chicken for soup 300g, 2 carrots, 1 parsley root, 1/2 celery, 1 parsnip, 2 yellow onions, 1/2 kohlrabi, iodized salt, freshly ground pepper, csiga (small pasta snails), fresh parsley

 Tags:  chicken soup noodle soup