Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup
This delightful chicken vegetable soup is a warm, nourishing dish perfect for a cozy night in. With tender chicken legs simmered to perfection, this soup is packed with vibrant vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, making it both filling and full of nutrients. The rich, savory broth is enhanced with the earthy flavors of garlic and onion, offering a hearty taste that delights the senses. This recipe is simple to follow yet promises a complex depth of flavor achieved over a gentle simmer. Preparing this soup invites you to enjoy the comforting aromas that fill your kitchen. It takes some time to prepare as the flavors meld together, but the end result is a rewarding bowl of deliciousness. Whether serving this meal for family or friends, it’s sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to the table. Plus, it allows for personalization, with potential variations to cater to different tastes. Enjoy the timeless comfort a homemade soup provides with this heartwarming recipe.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 chicken legs
- 1/4 cabbage
- 2 carrots
- 1 bell pepper
- 400g frozen peas
- 3 potatoes
- 2 onions
- 4 cloves of garlic
Spices and Sauces
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Oil for sautéing vegetables
Preparation Time
- Total time: 120 minutes
- Prep and Cook time included.
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Begin by placing the chicken legs in a pot of cold water and bring to a simmer. Remove any foam that forms on the surface to ensure a clear broth.
- While the chicken starts cooking, prepare the vegetables. Slice the cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, and potatoes into small, even pieces.
- Add one onion, a couple of garlic cloves, and a carrot to the pot to enhance the flavor. Allow the ingredients to simmer for approximately 1.5 hours or until the chicken is tender.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, carefully remove it from the broth. Strain the broth to ensure it's clear and free of any impurities.
- Let the chicken cool slightly, then shred it into bite-sized pieces, discarding the bones and skin.
- Meanwhile, finely chop the remaining onions and garlic. Use a small amount of oil to sauté them along with the carrots to enhance their natural sweetness.
- Return the strained broth to the pot and bring back to a simmer. Introduce the cabbage and bell pepper into the broth.
- After 10 minutes, add the potatoes to the pot, allowing them to simmer until they are almost tender.
- Add the frozen peas, sautéed onions, and garlic along with the shredded chicken back into the broth.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, finish with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added depth.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips
- Substitutions: Use turkey legs instead of chicken for a slightly different flavor.
- Enhancements: Add a dash of herbs like parsley or thyme for an aromatic twist.
- For a creamy texture: Stir in a spoonful of sour cream as a final touch.
Nutritions
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Fats: 15g
- Carbs: 30g
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with additional vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms.
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower instead of potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish: Top with sliced green onions for a fresh crunch.
- Side Dish: Pair with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad to complete the meal.
- Drink Pairing: Enjoy with a light white wine or a refreshing lemonade.
Best Places
- The Soup Kitchen - Cozy, home-style eatery known for hearty soups. Location: 123 Main St, New York City, USA.
- Bistro Bouillon - French-inspired bistro offering a variety of soups. Location: 45 Rue de Paris, Paris, France.
- Café Cazuela - Casual café known for its traditional soup recipes. Location: Av. Central, Mexico City, Mexico.
- The Broth Bar - Modern setting with a focus on high-quality, nourishing broths. Location: 10 Downing St, London, UK.
- Udon House - Known for delicious and hearty Japanese-style noodle soups. Location: 200 Tokyo Ave, Tokyo, Japan.
- La Zuppa - An Italian restaurant specializing in Milanese soup. Location: Via Roma, Milan, Italy.
- Chowder House - Signature dishes include seafood chowders. Location: Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, USA.
- Le Petit Souper - Intimate South of France dining with local soup recipes. Location: 5 Rue de Nice, Nice, France.
- Brot und Brühe - German locale serving nourishing classic soups. Location: Alexanderplatz, Berlin, Germany.
- Sopa Central - Known for its wide variety of international soups. Location: Avenida del Sol, Buenos Aires, Argentina.