Hearty Chicken Soup Recipe: A Winter Warmer

Chicken soup is a classic recipe that has been cherished for its warmth and comforting qualities since time immemorial. This nutritious dish can be enjoyed anytime of the year, but it especially shines during the colder months when you need something hearty to counteract the chill. In this article, we will walk through how to prepare delicious chicken soup from scratch.

Cooking Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes

Servings: 6-8 people

Ingredients

• 3 lb (about 1.4 kg) of chicken bones or carcass
• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 onions, diced
• 4 ribs of celery
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped into cubes
• 1 large leek, washed and thinly sliced (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon olive oil or butter for sautéing onions

Steps to Prepare the Chicken Soup

Step 1: Preparing the Base

In a large stockpot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it is warm, add the diced onions and garlic cloves. Stir frequently until they soften and become translucent (approximately 5 minutes).

Add the carrots, celery, and leek to the pot. Continue stirring for another few minutes to cook them down a bit.

Step 2: Adding Chicken Bones

Transfer the vegetables mixture into your stockpot containing chicken bones. Pour enough water in the pot such that it barely covers all ingredients (about 5-6 quarts or liters). Bring this mixture to a boil and then reduce heat so that it simmers gently.

Step 3: Simmering for Flavor

Simmer the soup uncovered on low heat, letting it bubble very slowly. During this time, skim off any foam from the top of your pot. Continue simmering until the broth becomes clear and flavorful; this process usually takes around an hour or two.

Building Up Flavor with Vegetables

Step 4: Adding Potatoes and More Seasonings

Add potatoes into the boiling mixture, along with fresh thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Allow these components to simmer together gently for about another half an hour until the vegetables are tender.

Finalizing the Soup

Step 5: Seasoning to Taste

Taste your soup before deciding if it needs more salt or any additional herbs and spices. Remember, you can add more thyme or even a splash of lemon juice for extra zest.

Step 6: Serving

Serve hot chicken soup in large bowls garnished with fresh parsley and whole grain bread on the side if preferred.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Soup

1. Ensure to use good quality chicken bones or carcass as their richness will greatly impact the flavor of your soup.
2. To make sure you get maximum flavor, browning the vegetables first is essential; do not skip this crucial step.
3. Adding a few more ingredients like pearl onions or corn kernels can vary the taste depending on personal preference.

This simple yet satisfying dish packed full of vitamins and minerals is perfect for sharing with friends and family during those cozy winter evenings. Enjoy your homemade chicken soup!