Albuquerque Chicken Soup is a hearty and flavorful soup that combines the bold flavors of the American Southwest. While it’s not a widely recognized or historically significant dish, it embodies the rich flavors of the region. Here’s a breakdown of its components, preparation steps, and approximate preparation time:
Components:
- Chicken: Typically boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are used. You can also use leftover cooked chicken for added convenience.
- Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth serves as the base of the soup.
- Vegetables: Common vegetables include diced tomatoes, corn kernels, diced bell peppers, and chopped onions.
- Chiles: The key to the Albuquerque flavor is the addition of New Mexican green chiles, either roasted and peeled or canned. The heat level can vary, so choose according to your preference.
- Spices: Common spices include cumin, chili powder, and oregano. These seasonings add depth and heat to the soup.
- Beans: Black or pinto beans are often used for texture and flavor.
- Garnishes: Lime wedges, fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and shredded cheese can be used for garnishing.
Preparation Steps:
- Prepare the Chicken: If using raw chicken, season it with salt and pepper and sauté in a large soup pot until browned. Remove and set aside. If using cooked chicken, shred or chop it.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté the chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic until they become soft and fragrant.
- Add Spices: Stir in the cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Cook for another minute to toast the spices.
- Add Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and green chiles. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the soup for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add Beans and Chicken: Add the beans and cooked chicken to the soup. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until everything is heated through.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
Garnish:
Before serving, top each bowl with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, a squeeze of lime juice, and shredded cheese if desired.
Preparation Time:
Albuquerque Chicken Soup typically takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to prepare, depending on the cooking method and whether you’re using pre-cooked chicken. It’s a relatively quick and easy soup to make, perfect for a comforting meal with a Southwestern twist.
Enjoy your delicious Albuquerque Chicken Soup, rich in flavors and warmth!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Albuquerque Chicken Soup. Please note that the specific values may vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approximately 1 cup):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories
- Total Fat: 4-8 grams
- Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
- Cholesterol: 20-40 milligrams
- Sodium: 600-800 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 3-4 grams
- Sugars: 3-4 grams
- Protein: 15-20 grams
Health Information:
- Protein: Albuquerque Chicken Soup is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
- Fiber: The soup contains a moderate amount of fiber, primarily from the vegetables and beans. Fiber aids in digestion and can help with feelings of fullness.
- Low in Saturated Fat: The soup is typically low in saturated fat, making it a heart-healthy option.
- Moderate Sodium: The sodium content can vary based on the type of broth and canned ingredients used. It’s essential to be mindful of sodium intake, especially if you have high blood pressure.
- Vitamins and Minerals: This soup is rich in various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the vegetables and chicken, and iron from the beans.
- Spices and Chiles: The use of spices and chiles in the soup may provide health benefits, including potential anti-inflammatory properties and boosting metabolism.
Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and preparation methods you use. To get the most accurate nutrition information, consider using a nutrition calculator or consulting a registered dietitian.
