🍋 Armenian Lemon Chicken Soup, known as “Carnots Kufta” or “Kufta Bozbash,” is a traditional Armenian soup with a delightful combination of chicken, bulgur, and a tangy lemony flavor. Here’s a detailed explanation of what it is, its history, components, preparation steps, and approximate preparation time:
What is Armenian Lemon Chicken Soup?
Armenian Lemon Chicken Soup is a hearty and comforting soup that is commonly enjoyed in Armenian cuisine. It is known for its unique blend of flavors, combining the richness of chicken with the brightness of lemon. The soup typically features chicken, bulgur (cracked wheat), and a variety of aromatic herbs and spices.
History:
This soup is a staple in Armenian cuisine, and its roots can be traced back to the historic and culinary traditions of the region. Armenians have a rich culinary heritage, and this soup is just one example of their flavorful and wholesome dishes.
Components:
Here are the main components of Armenian Lemon Chicken Soup:
- Chicken: Typically, bone-in chicken pieces are used, which impart a rich and savory flavor to the broth.
- Bulgur: Bulgur adds a pleasant chewy texture and nutty flavor to the soup.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest are essential for that signature tangy flavor.
- Aromatics: Ingredients like onions, garlic, and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro are used to infuse the soup with fragrant flavors.
- Spices: Commonly used spices include cumin, paprika, and sometimes red pepper flakes for a mild kick.
- Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth forms the base of the soup.
Steps to Prepare Armenian Lemon Chicken Soup:
Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this delicious soup:
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Prepare the Chicken: In a large pot, add the chicken pieces and cover with water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken, let it cool, and then shred the meat.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, sauté chopped onions and garlic until they become translucent.
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Add Spices and Bulgur: Stir in your choice of spices (cumin, paprika, etc.) and the bulgur. Cook for a few minutes to toast the bulgur slightly.
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Add Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer until the bulgur is tender, usually around 15-20 minutes.
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Return Chicken and Lemon: Add the shredded chicken back to the pot and squeeze in the juice of fresh lemons. Also, add lemon zest for extra zestiness.
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Season and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Stir in fresh herbs, like chopped parsley or cilantro.
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Serve Hot: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with extra lemon slices and herbs. It’s best enjoyed hot.
Preparation Time:
The preparation time for Armenian Lemon Chicken Soup can vary, but on average, it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours from start to finish. This includes the time needed for cooking the chicken, sautéing, and simmering the soup to develop its flavors.
Enjoy your delicious Armenian Lemon Chicken Soup, which is a perfect blend of savory, zesty, and hearty flavors! 🍲🍋
Armenian Lemon Chicken Soup offers a balanced mix of nutrition and health benefits:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving):
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Dietary Fiber: 2-4g
- Total Fat: 8-10g
- Saturated Fat: 2-3g
- Cholesterol: 50-70mg
- Sodium: 700-900mg
- Potassium: 300-400mg
- Vitamin C: 20-30% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Iron: 10-15% of DV
Health Information:
- Protein: Chicken provides a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle and tissue repair.
- Carbohydrates: Bulgur and vegetables offer a source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Dietary Fiber: The soup contains fiber from vegetables and bulgur, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
- Healthy Fats: While there is some fat from the chicken, it’s moderate and provides essential fatty acids.
- Vitamins and Minerals: This soup is rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and iron for oxygen transport in the blood.
- Low Sodium Option: If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium broth and adjust salt accordingly.
- Antioxidants: Lemon adds a burst of vitamin C and antioxidants, offering health benefits.
- Hydration: The broth and lemon juice provide hydration.
- Comfort and Warmth: A hot bowl of soup can offer comfort and warmth, especially in cold weather.
However, please note that the exact nutritional content can vary based on factors like the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your preparation. It’s always a good idea to consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized dietary advice.
