Bulgarian-Style Chicken Soup

Bulgarian-Style Chicken Soup is a heartwarming and nourishing dish, perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather. This traditional recipe features tender chicken drumsticks simmered with vegetables, potatoes, and vermicelli in a savory broth. The addition of a creamy egg yolk and sour cream mixture gives the soup a rich, velvety texture, making it both comforting and satisfying. The fresh parsley garnish adds a touch of brightness, enhancing the overall flavor.

Ingredients:

  • Soup Base:
    • 2 chicken drumsticks
    • 2 liters of water
    • 1 vegetable bouillon cube
    • 6 tablespoons of oil + a pinch of salt
    • 1 onion
    • 1 carrot
    • 4-5 potatoes
    • A handful of vermicelli
    • A sprig of fresh parsley
    • 1 teaspoon of salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
    • 1/2 teaspoon of savory
  • Thickening:
    • 2 egg yolks
    • 4 tablespoons of sour cream (or yogurt)

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken Broth:
    • In a large pot, bring 2 liters of water to a boil.
    • Add the chicken drumsticks, vegetable bouillon cube, and a pinch of salt.
    • Reduce the heat and simmer until the chicken is tender, about 40 minutes.
  2. Sauté Vegetables:
    • While the chicken is simmering, heat 6 tablespoons of oil in a pan.
    • Sauté the finely chopped onion and carrot until soft and translucent.
    • Add the sautéed vegetables to the simmering chicken broth.
  3. Add Potatoes and Vermicelli:
    • Peel and dice the potatoes.
    • Add the diced potatoes and a handful of vermicelli to the soup.
    • Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
  4. Prepare the Thickening:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together 2 egg yolks and 4 tablespoons of sour cream (or yogurt) until smooth.
    • Gradually temper the yolk mixture by adding a few tablespoons of hot soup, stirring continuously to prevent curdling.
  5. Incorporate the Thickening:
    • Slowly stir the tempered yolk mixture back into the soup pot.
    • Heat gently, ensuring the soup does not boil to avoid curdling the eggs.
  6. Season the Soup:
    • Season the soup with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of savory.
    • Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  7. Serve:
    • Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Introduction:

Bulgarian-Style Chicken Soup is a heartwarming and nourishing dish, perfect for cold days or when you’re feeling under the weather. This traditional recipe features tender chicken drumsticks simmered with vegetables, potatoes, and vermicelli in a savory broth. The addition of a creamy egg yolk and sour cream mixture gives the soup a rich, velvety texture, making it both comforting and satisfying. The fresh parsley garnish adds a touch of brightness, enhancing the overall flavor.

Preparation Time:

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Active Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
  • Pair with a light side salad for a complete meal.
  • Enjoy with a sprinkle of extra black pepper and a wedge of lemon on the side.

Cooking Tips:

  • Avoid Boiling After Adding Eggs: Make sure the soup does not boil after adding the egg yolk mixture to prevent curdling.
  • Even Potato Cooking: Cut the potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
  • Fresh Herbs: Use fresh parsley for garnish to add a vibrant flavor and color.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Chicken: A great source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
  • Vegetables: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, contributing to overall health and digestion.
  • Egg Yolks: Provide healthy fats and essential nutrients like vitamin D and choline.
  • Sour Cream: Adds a source of calcium and probiotics if using yogurt.

Dietary Information:

  • Calories: Approximately 250-300 per serving
  • Protein: High in protein from chicken and eggs
  • Fat: Contains healthy fats from olive oil and sour cream
  • Carbohydrates: Moderate, mainly from potatoes and vermicelli
  • Fiber: Moderate fiber content from vegetables
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free vermicelli to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Comforting and Nourishing: Perfect for warming up on cold days or soothing when you’re under the weather.
  • Rich and Creamy: The egg yolk and sour cream mixture adds a luxurious texture to the soup.
  • Flavorful and Aromatic: Savory spices and fresh parsley enhance the overall taste.
  • Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for any home cook.

Conclusion:

Experience the comforting flavors of Bulgarian cuisine with this hearty chicken soup. With its tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and creamy broth, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you need a warm meal on a chilly day or a soothing dish when feeling unwell, this Bulgarian-Style Chicken Soup is the perfect choice. Enjoy the rich aroma and delicious taste, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.