Chicken soup

Chicken soup is a classic dish loved by everyone, bringing together the simple flavors of basic ingredients in a comforting combination, perfect for chilly days or when we crave a warm bowl of goodness. This chicken soup recipe is not only an excellent way to bring the family to the table but also an opportunity to explore culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 2 chicken thighs (preferably from free-range birds)
- 1 large onion
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 carrot (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 parsley root (optional, for a more complex flavor)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- 2 bay leaves
- 100 g of noodles
- 1 liter of borscht (sour soup) to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Water, as needed

Preparation:
1. Preparing the meat: Start by cleaning the chicken thighs of any skin or fat. Rinse them well under cold running water. Place the meat in a large pot, add cold water to cover it completely, and set it over medium heat.

2. Skimming: As the water begins to boil, foam will rise to the surface. It is important to remove it with a skimmer, as it can affect the appearance and taste of the soup. Continue to skim until the water is clear.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once there is no more foam, add the whole onion (for a milder flavor, you can leave it whole and remove it at the end), sliced carrot, parsley root, diced potatoes, and bay leaves. Let it simmer over low heat, covered, for 20 minutes.

4. Noodles and greens: After the vegetables are almost done, add the noodles and let the soup boil for another 5-10 minutes. In the last minutes, add the freshly chopped dill and lovage, along with the freshly ground pepper.

5. Sour the soup: Once the noodles are cooked, add the borscht to sour the soup. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if necessary. Let it boil for 5 minutes, then turn off the heat. Cover the pot and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving suggestions: Chicken soup is served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream added directly to the bowl or pot, depending on preference. You can sprinkle some fresh dill or parsley on top for a more appealing look and intensified flavor.

Practical tips:
- Choose chicken thighs from free-range birds for a richer taste and juicier meat.
- If you want a heartier soup, you can add other vegetables like celery or bell peppers.
- Chicken soup pairs excellently with a fresh green salad, as well as a slice of homemade or toasted bread.

Nutritional information: Chicken soup is a healthy choice, rich in proteins and vitamins. Depending on the servings and ingredients used, one serving can contain approximately 250-300 kcal, providing a good supply of essential nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe? Yes, but the cooking time will be reduced, so be careful not to overcook it.
- How can I make the soup more sour? Depending on your preferences, you can add more borscht or the juice of a lemon.
- Can I freeze chicken soup? Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended to add fresh noodles when serving to avoid them becoming mushy.

Chicken soup is not just a delicious dish but also a memory of warmth and comfort at home. So, don't hesitate to try this simple and comforting recipe, which will surely be appreciated by all your loved ones. By experimenting with the ingredients and making it your own, you will transform each serving into a unique experience!

 Ingredients: 2 thighs, vegetables (I had prepared vegetables), 1 onion, 1 tablespoon of broth, dill, parsley, lovage, pepper, bay leaves, spices, noodles, borscht for souring, 3 potatoes

 Tags:  soup chicken thighs