Greek Soup Recipe: Traditional Avgolemono
Greek Soup
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Greek Soup Recipe
This Greek soup, known as Avgolemono, combines the zest of lemon with the creaminess of eggs and the heartiness of chicken broth. Perfect for a comforting meal, it captures the essence of Greek cuisine in every spoonful.
Description
Greek soup, particularly Avgolemono, is a beloved dish that epitomizes Mediterranean flavors. This traditional soup is characterized by its unique blend of chicken, rice, and a creamy, tangy egg lemon sauce that elevates it to a comforting culinary delight. The origins of Avgolemono date back to ancient Greece, making it a dish steeped in history. The ultimate comfort food, this soup is not only nutritious but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions.
To start, gather your ingredients: chicken, rice, eggs, fresh lemons, and herbs like dill or parsley. The key to a flavorful Greek soup lies in using homemade chicken broth. It infuses the soup with richness and depth, making each bite a delightful experience. If you don’t have homemade broth, store bought will work, but consider enhancing it with additional spices for a more robust flavor.
The preparation begins with cooking the chicken in the broth until tender. This step is crucial as it allows the chicken to release its flavors into the soup. Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot. Add rice to the broth and let it simmer until tender. This adds heartiness to the dish and pairs beautifully with the creamy egg lemon sauce.
The egg lemon mixture is what makes Avgolemono truly special. To achieve that perfect creamy texture, whisk the eggs and lemon juice together until frothy, then temper the mixture with some hot broth before incorporating it back into the soup. This step prevents the eggs from scrambling and creates a velvety finish.
Garnish with fresh herbs to brighten up the dish and enhance the overall presentation. Each bowl of this Greek soup not only warms you up but also transports you to the sun drenched shores of Greece with its vibrant flavors. It’s perfect as a starter or a main course, and leftovers are even better the next day.
Whether you’re familiar with Greek cuisine or trying it for the first time, this Avgolemono recipe will satisfy your cravings and bring a taste of Greece into your kitchen. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal, and enjoy the comforting embrace of this traditional Greek soup.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup rice (preferably orzo or arborio)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
- Add the chicken breast and simmer for 20 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and set aside.
- Add rice to the broth and cook for another 10-12 minutes until tender.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs and lemon juice until frothy.
- Temper the egg mixture by gradually adding hot broth, whisking continuously.
- Slowly pour the tempered mixture back into the soup, stirring to combine.
- Add shredded chicken, and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, add less broth or more rice.
- Adjust lemon juice to taste for preferred tartness.
- This soup can be made ahead of time but is best enjoyed fresh.
Greek Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup rice preferably orzo or arborio
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice about 2 lemons
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
- Add the chicken breast and simmer for 20 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and set aside.
- Add rice to the broth and cook for another 10-12 minutes until tender.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs and lemon juice until frothy.
- Temper the egg mixture by gradually adding hot broth, whisking continuously.
- Slowly pour the tempered mixture back into the soup, stirring to combine.
- Add shredded chicken, and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Notes
- For a thicker soup, add less broth or more rice.
- Adjust lemon juice to taste for preferred tartness.
- This soup can be made ahead of time but is best enjoyed fresh.
