Chicken Soup

Chicken soup is a classic and comforting dish that warms the soul. Made from a combination of chicken carcass, chicken wings, aromatic vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, this homemade chicken soup is the perfect remedy for a cold day or a comforting meal anytime. By slow-cooking the chicken and vegetables in the oven, you create a rich and flavorful stock that forms the base of this nourishing soup. With tender shreds of chicken and a savory broth, this chicken soup is a delicious and satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 roast chicken carcass with meat left on
• 225g/8oz chicken wings
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 leek, diced
• 1 parsnip, diced
• 6 whole black peppercorns

PREPARATION:

1. Preheat the oven to 150°C/300°F/Gas mark 2.
2. In a large, heavy saucepan, place the roast chicken carcass with the remaining meat and the chicken wings.
3. Add the diced onion, leek, and parsnip to the saucepan.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil. While the water is heating, add the whole black peppercorns.
5. Once the stock has come to a boil, transfer it to an ovenproof dish and cook it in the preheated oven for 2 hours.
6. Using a slotted spoon, skim off any scum that rises to the surface of the stock.
7. Strain the stock to remove any solids, discarding everything except for the chicken.
8. When the stock is cool enough to handle, remove the chicken carcass and shred the meat. Return the shredded chicken to the stock.
9. Serve the chicken soup hot.

YIELD: The recipe makes a hearty pot of chicken soup.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• For a more flavorful stock, you can add additional herbs and spices such as bay leaves, thyme, or garlic cloves to the stock while it is cooking.
• You can customize the soup by adding vegetables such as carrots, celery, or potatoes to the stock during the cooking process.
• Adjust the seasoning of the soup to your taste by adding salt and pepper as needed.

TIPS:

• This chicken soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat it on the stovetop before serving.
• Serve the chicken soup with crusty bread or crackers for a complete and satisfying meal.
• You can garnish the soup with fresh herbs such as parsley or dill for added flavor and visual appeal.

Chicken soup is a classic and comforting dish that is loved by many. This homemade chicken soup recipe offers a delicious and nourishing option to warm you up on a cold day or provide comfort during any time. By using a combination of chicken carcass, chicken wings, vegetables, and seasonings, you create a flavorful and aromatic stock that forms the base of this hearty soup.

The process begins by preheating the oven and placing the chicken carcass and wings in a large, heavy saucepan. Diced onion, leek, parsnip, and whole black peppercorns are added to the pot. The mixture is brought to a boil before being transferred to an ovenproof dish and slow-cooked in the oven for two hours. During this time, the stock develops rich flavors and infuses with the essence of the chicken and vegetables.

Once the stock is cooked, it is strained to remove any solids, leaving behind a flavorful liquid. The chicken meat from the carcass is shredded and returned to the stock, adding tender and succulent pieces of chicken to the soup. The result is a comforting and satisfying bowl of chicken soup that is ready to be enjoyed.

You can customize this chicken soup recipe to your liking by adding additional vegetables, herbs, or spices. Carrots, celery, and potatoes are popular additions that contribute to the soup’s flavor and texture. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, and feel free to garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra touch of freshness.

Whether you’re seeking comfort or nourishment, this homemade chicken soup is sure to hit the spot. Serve it hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers for a complete and satisfying meal. Make a large batch and store leftovers in the refrigerator for an easy and comforting meal throughout the week.