Chicken soup with tomatoes and tarragon (dietetic)

Chicken Soup with Tomatoes and Tarragon (Dietetic)

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the delicious and healthy world of chicken soup with tomatoes and tarragon! This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it perfect for those looking to stay fit or follow a diet. Chicken soups have a long-standing history and are often considered a remedy for both the soul and the body. Additionally, the combination of tomatoes and tarragon adds a fresh and interesting flavor, turning this soup into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients

- 300 g chicken breast (or chicken pieces, with or without bones)
- 1 medium onion, julienned
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or green), diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1/2 celery, diced
- 1/2 parsnip, diced
- 4-5 fresh tomatoes, diced
- 2 eggs
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (or your preferred oil)
- 1-2 tablespoons dried tarragon
- Fresh tarragon (or frozen), to taste
- Salt (optional)
- 2.5 - 3 liters of warm water

Step-by-step preparation

Step 1: Preparing the meat

Start by cleaning and thoroughly washing the chicken pieces. Use a paper towel to gently dry them. It’s important to remove excess water to avoid foam formation during cooking. Place the meat in a large pot with water and let it boil over medium heat.

Step 2: Removing the foam

When the water starts to boil, you will notice foam forming on the surface. This is caused by proteins released from the meat. Use a skimmer to remove the foam, then take the chicken pieces out of the pot and discard the water. This step is essential for achieving a cleaner and healthier soup.

Step 3: Preparing the vegetables

In the same pot, add a tablespoon of oil and sauté the onion and bell pepper. Stir them for a few minutes until they soften. Then, add the diced carrot, celery, and parsnip. Continue to sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step will enhance the flavors of the vegetables.

Step 4: Boiling the vegetables

Once the vegetables have softened, add warm water (2.5 - 3 liters) until all ingredients are covered. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes. This process will allow the flavors to meld and create a delicious base for the soup.

Step 5: Adding the meat and tomatoes

After the vegetables have boiled, add the chicken pieces back into the pot. Let the soup simmer over low heat until the meat is well cooked and tender, about 15-20 minutes. Then, add the diced tomatoes and season with salt to taste. Cover the pot and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices.

Step 6: Finishing the soup

Beat the eggs in a bowl and gradually add the dried tarragon. When the soup is ready, remove the pot from the heat and pour the egg and tarragon mixture into the soup, stirring gently. Add the finely chopped fresh tarragon for an extra touch of freshness. Cover the pot and let the soup sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Serving and suggestions

This chicken soup with tomatoes and tarragon is best served warm, alongside a slice of whole-grain bread or crunchy croutons. You can add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of freshly ground pepper to enhance the flavors. It also pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad, which will add a crunchy and healthy contrast.

Nutritional benefits

This soup is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken breast provides quality protein, while the vegetables add fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins. Tarragon is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, making this recipe not only tasty but also beneficial for health.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey is a healthy alternative and can be successfully used in this recipe.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can add zucchini, peas, or even mushrooms to vary the recipe and enhance its flavor.

3. How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a bit of chili pepper or cayenne pepper during cooking for an extra kick of flavor.

4. How long can I keep the soup in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s recommended to reheat it on the stove, adding a bit of water if necessary.

Tips and variations

- If you want a creamier soup, you can add a tablespoon of low-fat sour cream when serving.
- Use fresh tarragon for a more intense flavor and vibrant aroma.
- Experiment with spices – add a little sweet paprika or thyme to change the flavor profile.

This chicken soup with tomatoes and tarragon is not only a dietetic recipe but also brings indescribable comfort, perfect for chilly days or moments when you need a little warmth. Give it a try and enjoy every spoonful!

 Ingredients: This time I will post the recipe for the dietary chicken soup that I have been preparing since I have health issues. Sometimes the diet is very strict, meaning only 300 g of meat per week, including fish... This soup can be confidently served not only to those who have to follow a hypocaloric and hypoproteic diet (renal insufficiency, etc.)... The secret of dietary food is to always discard the first water in which the meat was boiled, salt is successfully replaced by natural spices, and ideally, no more than 1-2 tablespoons of oil should be used in meat dishes... Offal and wings from a chicken, dried onion or green onion, one medium carrot, 1/2 parsnip, 1/2 small celery, one bell pepper, 4-5 tomatoes, 2 eggs, dried tarragon, fresh tarragon (I used frozen tarragon), salt (optional), 2.5 - 3 liters of warm water.