Description
Embrace the comforting, zesty flavors of Greece with this Easy Greek Lemon Chicken Soup. Known as Avgolemono, this soup combines tender chicken, rice, and a velvety egg-lemon broth to create a dish that’s light yet satisfying. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 8 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- ½ cup finely chopped celery
- 6 tablespoons chicken soup base
- ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper
For the Thickener:
- ¼ cup margarine
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
For the Egg Mixture:
- 8 egg yolks
For Final Additions:
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 cup diced, cooked chicken
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Soup Base:
- In a large pot, combine chicken broth, lemon juice, carrots, onions, celery, chicken soup base, and white pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Make the Thickener:
- In a small bowl, mix margarine and flour into a smooth paste.
- Gradually stir the mixture into the soup, whisking to prevent lumps.
- Simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the soup thickens slightly.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, beat the egg yolks until light in color.
- Slowly whisk a ladleful of hot soup into the egg yolks in a thin stream, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
- Add the Egg Mixture:
- Gradually pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot, stirring continuously.
- Heat gently without boiling, to prevent the eggs from curdling.
- Incorporate Final Ingredients:
- Stir in the cooked rice and diced chicken.
- Simmer until everything is warmed through.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with lemon slices, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lemon juice and high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor.
- Avoid Curdling: Temper the eggs carefully and do not let the soup boil after adding them.
- Customization: Adjust the soup’s thickness by adding more or less flour in the thickener.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Greek