Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg)
• 2 onions, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 leek, chopped
• 4 bay leaves
• 2 whole cloves
• 10 black peppercorns
• 2 liters of water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions

1. Clean the chicken and remove any excess fat. Cut it into pieces.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and leek for about 5 minutes or until they become soft and fragrant.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the pot along with the bay leaves, cloves, peppercorns, and water.
4. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer. Skim any foam or fat that rises to the surface.
5. Cover and let simmer for about 1 hour or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
6. Remove the chicken from the broth and let it cool down before removing the skin and bones. Shred the meat and set it aside.
7. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth and discard the solids.
8. Return the broth to the pot and add the shredded chicken. Cook for another 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives before serving.

Introduction

Dutch Kippensoep, also known as chicken soup, is a classic and comforting dish that has been enjoyed by generations of Dutch families. It is a simple and hearty soup that is perfect for cold winter nights or when you need a warm and nourishing meal.

There are many variations of chicken soup, but the Dutch version is unique because it uses whole chicken pieces and a combination of aromatic vegetables and spices to create a rich and flavorful broth. The soup is typically served with crusty bread or crackers and is often garnished with chopped herbs like parsley or chives.

Making Dutch Kippensoep is a great way to use up any leftover chicken and vegetables you may have in your fridge. It’s also an excellent dish to make ahead and freeze for later. You can easily customize it to your taste by adding different herbs and spices or additional vegetables like potatoes or parsnips.

When making this soup, be sure to use a good quality and well-seasoned chicken as it will be the star of the dish. Also, be sure to skim any foam or fat that rises to the surface of the broth to ensure a clear and delicious soup. Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment with different garnishes or serving suggestions like adding a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lemon juice.