Chicken soup with dumplings

Chicken soup with dumplings - a recipe full of memories and flavor

Who doesn't have a favorite dish that reminds them of cherished moments from childhood? Chicken soup with dumplings is one of those recipes that embraces our soul and brings back memories of grandparents and family days. This soup is more than just a meal; it is an experience that connects us to traditions and the love of our dear ones, even when they are no longer with us. In this recipe, I will share with you how my grandmother prepared this delicacy, along with some useful tricks and tips to achieve a perfect soup.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

For the soup:
- 1 suitable chicken or 4-5 chicken thighs
- 2 medium onions
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 carrot
- 1 bunch of fresh or dried dill
- 1 bunch of fresh or dried parsley
- Salt, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil (optional)

For the dumplings:
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil
- Semolina, enough to obtain a thick mixture

The story of chicken soup with dumplings

Chicken soup with dumplings is a traditional recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation. This soup is full of fresh and healthy ingredients that provide not only a delicious taste but also numerous nutritional benefits. Chicken meat is an excellent source of protein, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals for health. The semolina dumplings are a distinctive element of this recipe, adding a fluffy texture and subtle taste that perfectly complements the soup.

Preparing the soup

1. Boiling the chicken
Start by cleaning and cutting the chicken into suitable pieces. Place the meat in a large pot with cold water and add a little salt. Set the pot over medium heat and let it boil. As the water begins to boil, foam will form on the surface. This step is crucial! Using a skimmer, remove the foam so that the soup remains clear and appetizing.

2. The vegetables
Once the meat is almost cooked (about 20 minutes), add the halved onion, diced bell pepper, and sliced carrot. These vegetables will add flavor and aroma to your soup. Let everything boil together for another 10-15 minutes or until the meat is well cooked and the vegetables are tender.

3. Preparing the dumplings
In a bowl, beat the two eggs with the salt and baking soda. Gradually add the oil while continuously mixing to achieve a well-bound emulsion. Start adding the semolina gradually, mixing until you obtain a thick paste, but not too stiff. The optimal texture is essential for fluffy dumplings!

4. Adding the dumplings to the soup
When the vegetables are cooked, use a teaspoon to take portions of the dumpling mixture and carefully add them to the soup. If the dumplings scatter, add a little more semolina. Let the dumplings cook for about 5-7 minutes, without stirring too much, to avoid breaking apart.

5. Finalizing the soup
If the chicken does not have enough fat, you can add 2-3 tablespoons of oil for a richer taste. Finally, add the finely chopped dill and parsley before turning off the heat. These herbs will enhance the flavor of the soup. Taste the soup and adjust the salt to your preference.

Useful tips

- Types of meat: If you have the opportunity, choose a free-range chicken, as it will provide a more intense flavor to your soup. If using store-bought thighs, you can add a bouillon cube or a sprinkle of Delikat for a richer taste.
- Variations: If you don't like dumplings, you can replace them with 2-3 tablespoons of rice. It will cook in the soup and add a different texture.
- Serving: You can serve the soup with a slice of fresh bread or toasted bread croutons. Additionally, a spoonful of sour cream added to the bowl will bring a creamy and delicious note.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken soup with dumplings is not only tasty but also healthy. Chicken meat provides essential proteins for the body, while the vegetables contribute to the daily intake of vitamins and minerals. Moreover, the semolina dumplings are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy and support.

Frequently asked questions

- Why is it important to remove the foam?
The foam contains impurities and proteins that, if not removed, will make the soup cloudy and unappealing.

- How can I store the soup if I don't consume it immediately?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. I recommend adding the dumplings only to the portion you consume to prevent excessive liquid absorption.

- What drinks pair well with this soup?
A warm chicken soup is perfect alongside a dry white wine or a fresh lemonade, which will provide a pleasant contrast to the rich flavor of the soup.

In conclusion, chicken soup with dumplings is a simple and delicious recipe that will make you feel at home, no matter where you are. I wish you a good appetite and enjoy every spoonful!

 Ingredients: For this we need: a suitable chicken or some thighs, 2 suitable onions, 1 bell pepper, 1 carrot, dill, parsley (fresh or dried). For the dumplings: 2 eggs, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 2-3 tablespoons of oil.