Once you try this chicken soup, you’ll want to make it again and again! This recipe is a perfect blend of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and delicate vermicelli, all simmered together to create a comforting and delicious meal. Ideal for chilly days or whenever you need a bowl of warmth, this chicken soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for you and your family. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to make this irresistible chicken soup.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken drumsticks
- 1.5 liters of water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 carrot
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 3 potatoes
- 30 grams vermicelli
- Chicken broth (as needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preparing the Chicken Broth:
- Begin by placing the chicken drumsticks in a large pot. Add 1.5 liters of water and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer.
- Cook the chicken drumsticks until they are fully cooked and tender, which should take about 30-40 minutes.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove the drumsticks from the pot and set them aside to cool. Strain the broth to remove any impurities and set it aside.
- Preparing the Vegetables:
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Peel and chop the carrot into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into small cubes.
- Sautéing the Vegetables:
- In a separate large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped carrot to the pot and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes, until the carrot begins to soften.
- Making the Roux:
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flour to lightly brown.
- Slowly add a small amount of water while stirring continuously to create a smooth paste. This will help thicken the soup.
- Combining the Ingredients:
- Pour the strained chicken broth into the pot with the sautéed vegetables and roux. Stir well to combine.
- Add the cubed potatoes to the pot and bring the soup to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Adding the Chicken and Vermicelli:
- While the soup is simmering, shred the cooked chicken drumsticks into bite-sized pieces, discarding the skin and bones.
- Add the shredded chicken and vermicelli to the pot, stirring well to combine.
- Continue to simmer the soup for another 5-7 minutes, or until the vermicelli is cooked through.
- Seasoning and Final Touches:
- Taste the soup and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the vermicelli is cooked and the flavors are well combined, turn off the heat.
- Finely chop fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the soup for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serving:
- Ladle the hot chicken soup into bowls, making sure each serving gets a good mix of chicken, vegetables, and vermicelli.
- Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Using Chicken Thighs: If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks. They are equally flavorful and tender.
- Homemade Broth: For a richer flavor, you can make your own chicken broth by simmering a whole chicken with vegetables and herbs.
- Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more flour or use a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to thicken it.
- Vermicelli Alternatives: If you don’t have vermicelli, you can use any small pasta or even rice.
Nutritional Benefits:
This chicken soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. The vegetables, including carrots, onions, and potatoes, provide a good amount of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is important for eye health, while onions and garlic are known for their immune-boosting properties. The vermicelli adds a bit of carbohydrates, providing energy to keep you going throughout the day. Overall, this soup is a well-balanced meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You’ll love this chicken soup for its comforting and hearty nature. It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold day or when you need a little pick-me-up. The combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and delicate vermicelli creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and nourishing. This recipe is also incredibly versatile – you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or add spices to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your family, this chicken soup is sure to be a hit.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this soup gluten-free, simply use gluten-free flour and gluten-free pasta or rice instead of vermicelli.
- Low-Fat: By using lean chicken drumsticks and a small amount of butter, this soup is relatively low in fat while still being rich in flavor.
- High-Protein: With a generous amount of chicken, this soup provides a good source of protein, essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall health.
- Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally nut-free, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.
Why This Recipe Works:
The success of this chicken soup lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. By using fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken, you get a soup that is both flavorful and nutritious. The method of sautéing the vegetables and making a roux helps to build a depth of flavor and a rich, hearty texture. Adding the vermicelli towards the end of cooking ensures that it doesn’t become mushy and retains its delicate texture. The final touch of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbal note that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
Conclusion:
Our Irresistible Chicken Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. Perfect for any time of the year, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home. It’s easy to make, nutritious, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a way to use up leftover chicken, this recipe is the answer. Give it a try, and we guarantee you’ll be making it again and again. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t forget to share this delightful soup with your loved ones! Thank you for trying out our recipe, and happy cooking!