How to Make Chicken Soup
Ingredients:
1 whole chicken （about 1.5 kg）
2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or butter
1 large onion, chopped
2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
8 cups of chicken broth or water
1-2 carrots, sliced
1 stalk of celery, sliced
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs （e.g., parsley, thyme） for garnish
Steps:
Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Rinse the chicken thoroughly under cold water to remove any impurities.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat the olive oil or butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and golden brown.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cook the Chicken:
- Place the chicken pieces in the saucepan.
- Pour in the chicken broth or water, ensuring the chicken is fully submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20-30 minutesor until the chicken is cooked through （the juices run clear）.
Add Vegetables and Season:
- After the chicken is cooked, add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot.
- Simmer for an additional 30-40 minutesto allow the vegetables to soften.
- Remove the bay leaf and stir in salt and pepper to taste.
Final Touches:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
- Serve hot in bowls.
Tips:
Bone-in Chicken:For more flavor, use bone-in chicken and save the bones for making stock later.
Stock:You can also use chicken stock or bouillon cubes to enhance the broth.
Vegetables:Carrots and celery not only add flavor but also make the soup more nutritious.
This recipe provides a clear, step-by-step guide to making chicken soup, suitable for various English proficiency levels. Feel free to adjust the ingredients and cooking time according to your preferences.