Chicken soup a la Greek is a reinterpretation of the classic chicken soup, enriched with sour cream, egg yolks, and a splash of lemon juice, which give it a distinctive flavor and a fresh taste. It is a dish inspired by Greek cuisine, but adapted to Romanian tastes, becoming one of the most beloved soups in gastronomy.
The fine and creamy texture of the soup blends perfectly with the refreshing aroma of lemon, offering a balanced and comforting experience. Pieces of tender chicken meat and lightly boiled vegetables add consistency to the dish, while the rice completes this feast in a subtle and delicate way. In the end, the soup is flavored with dill and fresh parsley, which bring freshness and color.
Chicken soup a la Greek is ideal for family meals or festive lunches, being easy to appreciate for its mild yet sophisticated taste. Whether you serve it plain or alongside hot peppers, this soup is a recipe that combines tradition with refinement, a dish that brings to the table the joy and warmth of homemade cooking.
Ingredients
1 whole chicken or 4–5 pieces (thighs, breast)
2 carrots
1 large onion
1 parsley root
1/2 small celery root
1 bell pepper
100 g rice
2 egg yolks
200 ml sour cream (preferably with 20% fat)
Juice of 1–2 lemons (to taste)
1 bunch fresh dill
1 bunch fresh parsley
Salt and pepper, to taste
Step 1: Boiling the Meat
Wash and portion the chicken, then place it in a large pot with cold water and a little salt. Bring to a boil and remove the foam that forms on the surface to obtain a clear chicken soup.
Step 2: Adding the Vegetables
Once the meat is half-cooked, add the carrots, onion, parsley root, celery, and bell pepper, all cut into small cubes. Continue simmering over low heat until the meat and vegetables are well cooked.
Step 3: Preparing the Rice
In a separate saucepan, boil the rice in water with a little salt until soft, then drain it and set it aside.
Step 4: Finishing the Soup
Remove the pieces of meat and vegetables from the soup. Cut the meat into smaller pieces, and if desired, you may leave some vegetables in the soup for added consistency.
Add the cooked rice back into the pot with the broth.
Step 5: Thickening with Sour Cream and Egg
In a bowl, mix the sour cream with the egg yolks and lemon juice. Take a ladle of hot soup and gradually add it to the sour cream mixture, stirring continuously to temper the cream and prevent curdling.
Pour the sour cream and egg mixture into the pot of soup, stirring gently.
Step 6: Seasoning and Serving
Taste the chicken soup a la Greek and add salt, pepper, and lemon juice as preferred.
Finally, sprinkle chopped dill and parsley on top.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken soup a la Greek is best served hot, alongside spicy peppers and fresh bread. The creaminess of the sour cream and the refreshing lemon aroma make this soup an irresistible dish, perfect for family lunches or festive meals. Enjoy!
Why is chicken soup a la Greek so loved in Romanian cuisine?
Chicken soup a la Greek is appreciated for its perfect balance between the creamy texture of sour cream, the freshness of lemon, and the consistency provided by rice and chicken meat. Inspired by Greek cuisine, this soup has been adapted to Romanian tastes, becoming a comforting and sophisticated dish, ideal for family meals.
How is the creamy texture specific to this soup obtained?
The creamy texture is achieved by adding a mixture of sour cream, egg yolks, and lemon juice, tempered with a few ladles of hot soup. This method prevents the cream from curdling and ensures a smooth consistency, harmoniously integrating the ingredients into the soup.
What is the role of lemon in the recipe?
Lemon brings a fresh and slightly tangy note that contrasts pleasantly with the creaminess of the sour cream. Its refreshing taste balances the flavors and transforms this soup into a light dish, suitable for any season.
What type of chicken is recommended for this soup?
The best results are obtained using free-range chicken or bone-in pieces (thighs, breast, or wings), which provide a richer taste and a more flavorful broth. The bones and natural fat contribute to creating a strong aromatic base for the soup.
How can curdling of the cream be prevented in the soup?
To avoid curdling, the sour cream and egg mixture must be tempered. This involves gradually adding a ladle of hot soup into the cream mixture while stirring continuously, before pouring it back into the pot. This process balances the temperatures and ensures an even integration.
Is rice mandatory in this recipe?
Rice is a traditional ingredient in chicken soup a la Greek, adding consistency and a subtle texture. However, if you prefer a lighter version, rice can be omitted or replaced with quinoa or small pasta, such as stars or thin noodles.
How can this soup be customized for a different taste?
To personalize the recipe, you can add mushrooms or finely grated carrot pieces for extra flavor. You may also use lime instead of lemon for an exotic touch or sprinkle parmesan on top before serving, for a modern twist.
What vegetables are essential in chicken soup a la Greek?
Carrots, onion, celery, and parsley root are the basic vegetables in this soup, providing subtle sweetness and balanced aroma. Bell pepper, though optional, adds an extra layer of flavor and color.
How is chicken soup a la Greek traditionally served?
The soup is served hot, sprinkled with fresh dill and parsley, alongside hot peppers and homemade bread. For an elegant presentation, you can add a few thin lemon slices or grated peel for extra color and fragrance.
Why is chicken soup a la Greek suitable for festive meals?
Thanks to its elegant appearance, creamy texture, and refined taste, chicken soup a la Greek is perfect for special occasions. It is a dish that all guests can easily appreciate, offering a balance between tradition and culinary refinement.
