Chicken soup with dumplings
Chicken soup with dumplings - a comfort recipe that entices us with warm and nostalgic flavors, evoking childhood memories and moments spent with loved ones. It is a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for cool days or for those times when we need a secret ingredient: love.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 3 chicken thighs (preferably with bone, for more flavor)
- 4 carrots (medium, cut lengthwise)
- 1 celery (medium, cleaned and cut into large pieces)
- 1 onion (whole, for flavor)
- 2 eggs (free-range, for a richer taste)
- 9-10 tablespoons of semolina
- 2 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil, for a delicate taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
- Chicken concentrate (optional, for an extra flavor boost)
- Fresh celery leaves and parsley (for garnish and flavor)
Types of ingredients:
- Chicken thighs are ideal for achieving a rich taste, and the meat on the bone will release gelatin, giving the soup a velvety texture.
- Carrots and celery not only add sweetness and flavor but also a boost of nutrients, being excellent sources of vitamins.
- Semolina is the magic ingredient that transforms the soup into one with fluffy dumplings, absorbing flavors and enriching every spoonful.
Preparation:
1. Boiling the chicken: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. Place them in a large pot and add enough water to cover them completely. Season with a teaspoon of salt, then add the cut carrots, celery, and the whole onion.
2. Skimming: Place the pot over medium heat and wait for it to reach the boiling point. This is when foam will appear. Use a skimmer to remove the foam from the surface – this step is essential for obtaining a clear and clean soup.
3. Slow boiling: Once you have removed the foam, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
4. Straining the soup: Use a fine sieve to strain the soup. Discard the onion and keep the carrots and celery, which you will add back to the soup. This step helps achieve a clear and flavorful soup.
5. Seasoning the soup: Place the strained soup over low heat and add salt, pepper, and chicken concentrate to taste.
6. Preparing the dumplings: In a deep bowl, beat the eggs with a little oil and a pinch of seasoning, then gradually add the semolina, stirring continuously. The consistency should be that of a soft paste, not runny but not too firm either. Your dumplings will be fluffy and delicious if you get the right mixture.
7. Boiling the dumplings: When the soup reaches the boiling point, form the dumplings with a spoon and carefully add them to the boiling soup. Cover the pot and let them simmer on low heat for 8-10 minutes. It is important for the soup to boil very gently to avoid disturbing the dumplings.
8. Finishing: After the dumplings have cooked, add 100 ml of cold water to the soup and let it boil uncovered for another 5 minutes. This trick will help maintain the dumplings' consistency.
9. Serving: Turn off the heat and add the chopped celery leaves and parsley for an extra touch of freshness. Serve the soup hot, in deep bowls, and enjoy every spoonful.
Serving suggestions and combinations:
This chicken soup with dumplings can be served plain or alongside a slice of homemade bread, which will perfectly complement the meal. Additionally, a fresh vegetable salad will add a pleasant contrast and enrich the nutrient intake. You might also try a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade to complete this comforting meal.
Nutritional benefits:
Chicken soup with dumplings is not only tasty but also nourishing. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. Semolina, although a source of carbohydrates, contributes to the feeling of fullness.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use turkey meat? Yes, you can replace chicken thighs with turkey meat for a lighter option, but the taste will be different.
- How can I store the soup? The soup can be stored in the fridge for 3 days or in the freezer for 2-3 months. The dumplings become fluffier after freezing, so you can prepare them fresh when serving.
- What should I do if the dumplings are not cooked well? Make sure you followed the egg-semolina proportions. If the dumplings are not cooked well, you can leave them in the soup longer until they puff up and become fluffy.
In the end, this chicken soup with dumplings is not just a delicious recipe, but also a way to bring family and friends together, to create memories, and to enjoy moments of joy. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 3 chicken thighs, 4 carrots, 1 suitable celery, 1 onion, 2 eggs, 9-10 tablespoons of semolina, oil, salt, pepper, chicken concentrate
