Chicken soup with dried plums

Chicken Soup with Dried Plums - A Delicacy with Flavor and Tradition

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Chicken soup with dried plums is a recipe that brings a touch of warmth and comfort on chilly days. This savory soup combines the delicate taste of chicken with the subtle sweetness of dried plums, creating a perfect contrast of flavors. It is a family recipe passed down through generations, surprising with its simplicity and refinement.

Ingredients:

- 500 g chicken meat (recommended: thighs, wings, or breast)
- 1 large onion
- 2 carrots
- 2 parsnips
- ½ celery
- 2 bell peppers (preferably one sweet and one hot)
- 1 cup tomato puree (approximately 200 ml)
- 150 g dried plums, pitted
- 150 g homemade noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh lovage, for serving
- Fresh parsley, for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste

Steps for Preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Rinse the chicken thoroughly under cold running water. Cut it into smaller pieces for even cooking. It is ideal to use free-range chicken for a more intense flavor and better texture.

2. Boiling the meat: In a large pot, add the chicken and enough water to cover it completely. Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a boil. Skim the soup whenever foam forms on the surface. This step is essential for achieving a clear and clean soup.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once you have skimmed the soup, add the finely chopped onion, diced or grated carrots and parsnips. Also, add the diced celery. These vegetables not only add flavor but also a boost of nutrients.

4. Seasoning: Add salt to taste and let the vegetables simmer with the meat for about 30 minutes over medium heat. Check periodically if they are cooked.

5. Adding the tomato puree and spices: When the vegetables are nearly cooked, add the cup of tomato puree, which will enhance the soup's flavor, and dried thyme. This spice will bring a note of freshness and a fragrant taste.

6. Dried plums and noodles: Rinse the dried plums under cold water and cut them in half. Add them to the pot along with the homemade noodles. Let simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked. The plums will add an unexpected sweetness to the soup.

7. Serving: Finally, adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Add the chopped lovage and parsley before serving. The chicken soup with dried plums is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread and, for those who prefer, a hot pepper for an extra kick.

Practical Tips:

- Vegetables: Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for a more intense flavor. You can experiment with adding zucchini or green beans.
- Dried plums: Ensure that the plums are pitted to avoid any unpleasant surprises during the meal.
- Noodles: If you don't have homemade noodles, you can use store-bought egg noodles, but the cooking time will change. Check the package instructions.
- Variations: You can also add other spices, such as sweet paprika or red pepper, to customize the soup's flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:

Chicken soup with dried plums is not only delicious but also healthy. Chicken is a rich source of protein, while the vegetables provide a generous supply of vitamins and minerals. Dried plums are high in fiber, aiding digestion and offering a natural source of sugars. This soup is an excellent choice for a balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can replace chicken with turkey or even pork, but the cooking time will change.

2. What other ingredients could I add?
You could add potatoes or green beans, depending on your preferences.

3. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add fresh hot peppers or chili flakes during cooking, to your personal taste.

4. How long can I keep the soup?
The soup can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

For a complete culinary experience, serve the chicken soup with dried plums alongside a fresh green salad and an apple pie for dessert. You can accompany the soup with a glass of dry white wine or herbal tea to balance the flavors.

This chicken soup with dried plums is not just a simple dish, but also a family story, an occasion to gather with loved ones. So embrace tradition, enjoy cooking, and savor every bite!

 Ingredients: chicken (back, wings, breast) 1 onion 2 carrots 2 parsnips 1/2 celery 2 peppers 1 cup broth 150 g pitted dried plums homemade noodles thyme parsley salt, pepper