Chicken soup with lamb's quarters, dressed with yogurt

Chicken soup with lamb's quarters, dressed with yogurt - A recipe like grandma's

If there is a dish that takes us back to childhood, it is certainly chicken soup with lamb's quarters. Its unmistakable aroma, the delicate texture of the chicken meat, and the freshness of the vegetables remind us of the bountiful meals lovingly prepared by our grandmothers. So, I invite you to discover together with me how to recreate this traditional delight, slightly adapted to modern tastes.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Necessary ingredients

- Chicken meat (preferably free-range) - 600 g
- Lamb's quarters - 400 g (washed and cleaned)
- Water - 4 l
- Whey - 800 ml (an ingredient that adds a note of freshness)
- Natural yogurt - 200 g (or sour cream, to taste)
- Egg yolk - 1 (for a creamy consistency)
- White bell pepper - 1 (diced)
- Large onions - 2 (one can be white and the other green)
- Cherry tomatoes - 6-8 (for a sweet-sour taste)
- Noodles or pasta - a handful (optional, but adds consistency)
- Pepper - to taste
- Lovage - a handful (for added flavor)

A brief history

Chicken soup with lamb's quarters is a traditional dish that has been cooked in Romanian households for generations. Lamb's quarters, a plant with green leaves rich in nutrients, was often used in spring when fresh vegetables began to appear in the market. This soup not only nourishes the body but also the soul, reminding us of family meals spent with loved ones.

Step by step: How to prepare chicken soup with lamb's quarters

1. Preparing the meat
Start by washing the chicken meat well under cold running water. This will help remove impurities and make the soup cleaner. Place the meat in a large pot with 4 liters of water and bring to a boil.

2. Removing the foam
As the water begins to boil, foam will appear on the surface of the liquid. Use a skimmer to remove it. This is an essential step to obtain a clear and tasty soup.

3. Adding the ingredients
After the meat has boiled for about 20-30 minutes, remove it from the pot. Now is the time to add salt, pepper, the diced bell pepper, chopped white onion, and halved cherry tomatoes. Let everything boil for 5 minutes for the flavors to combine.

4. Including the whey
Add the whey to the pot and let it boil for 10-15 minutes. This will give a sour taste and improve the texture of the soup.

5. Adding the lamb's quarters
In the last 5-8 minutes of boiling, add the chopped lamb's quarters. It will wilt quickly and add a splash of color and nutrients.

6. Dressing the soup
In a separate bowl, mix the yogurt with the egg yolk. This will add a pleasant creaminess to the soup. Add the mixture to the pot and let it boil for another 1-2 minutes. Don't forget to stir continuously to avoid curdling the yogurt.

7. Finalizing
Turn off the heat and add the pasta or noodles (if using) and the chopped lovage. Let the soup sit for a few minutes for the pasta to absorb the flavors.

Serving and suggestions

Serve the chicken soup with lamb's quarters hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. A squeeze of lemon on top can further enhance the flavors. If you want to add extra flavor, you can sprinkle some freshly ground pepper or a few leaves of fresh lovage.

Variations and suggestions

- For those who prefer a richer version: replace the yogurt with sour cream for a creamier taste.
- If you want to experiment with vegetables: you can add carrots or celery for a different flavor.
- For a more intense taste: add a few sprigs of fresh dill or basil before serving.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken soup with lamb's quarters is an excellent choice for a healthy meal. Chicken meat is a good source of lean protein, while lamb's quarters are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals. Whey adds probiotics, which are beneficial for digestion. This soup is not only tasty but also nutritious, making it ideal for all ages.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can use pork or beef, but the cooking time may vary.

- How long can the soup be stored?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to consume it as soon as possible to benefit from the freshness of the ingredients.

- Is the soup suitable for vegans?
Although the recipe contains meat, you can adapt it by using vegetables and a vegetable broth, eliminating the meat and whey.

Chicken soup with lamb's quarters is a true delight for the senses and a recipe worth trying. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, it will surely become a favorite in your family. So put on your apron and let's cook together!

 Ingredients: 400 g lamb's lettuce (washed and cleaned) 600 g chicken (preferably free-range) 4 l water 800 ml whey 200 g natural yogurt 1 egg yolk 1 white pepper 2 large onions 1 green onion 6-8 cherry tomatoes a handful of noodles/pasta salt pepper parsley

 Tags:  chicken soup