Chef Bihi Chicken Broth with Vegetables
Has the festive season left you feeling a bit worse for wear? Fear not! This nourishing chicken broth is just the remedy you need. A warm, hearty bowl filled with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables can lift spirits and revive the weary. So why not roll up your sleeves and dive into a simple yet rewarding cooking experience? You’ll be surprised how comforting it feels to create something wholesome at home!
Recipe Information
- Servings: 6
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 whole free-range chicken (about 1.5 kg/3.3 lbs)
- 1 bunch of turnips
- 1 bunch of leeks
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of carrots
- 4 stalks of celery
- 1 bouquet garni (a bundle of herbs, typically including thyme, bay leaf, and parsley)
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 4 large crispbreads or alphabet pasta (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by peeling the carrots and cutting them into large chunks.
- Chop the leeks into sections and wash them thoroughly.
- Wash the turnips and cut them into quarters.
- Remove the strings from the celery stalks and chop them into pieces.
- In a large pot, combine the whole chicken, prepared vegetables, bouquet garni, a pinch of salt, and a bit of pepper.
- Add enough water to cover all the ingredients (about 3 liters/3.1 quarts) and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Let it cook for 2 hours over low heat, ensuring it doesn’t boil too vigorously; this will help the broth stay clear and flavorful.
- After 2 hours, remove the chicken from the pot. Let it cool slightly before shredding the meat from the bones and discarding the skin.
- Return the shredded chicken to the broth and stir gently.
- Serve in large bowls, topping each with a crispbread or sprinkle in 100 grams (3.5 oz) of alphabet pasta, allowing it to swell for a few minutes in the broth.
Notes
This chicken broth is not only a fantastic way to use leftover chicken, but it’s also a wonderful meal prep idea, storing well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat gently before serving.
Recipe Tips
– Adding a splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil before serving can enhance the flavors.
– Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like potatoes or green beans based on what you have on hand.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories with low fat and high protein content, making it a healthy meal choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for the broth?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before starting the recipe.
What can I substitute for the bouquet garni?
If you don’t have a bouquet garni, you can use dried herbs like thyme and bay leaves on their own.
Can I make this broth in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can combine all the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a delicious slow-cooked broth.
Is it possible to make this broth vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken with vegetables like mushrooms and add vegetable broth instead of water.
How can I store the leftover broth?
Let the broth cool completely, transfer it to airtight containers, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer preservation.
