Highland Chicken Soup

Highland Chicken Soup Recipe - Scottish Cuisine

Region / culture: Scotland | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Highland Chicken Soup is a traditional Scottish dish that is hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. This creamy soup is perfect for a cold winter day or when you're craving a warm and satisfying meal.

History

Highland Chicken Soup has been a staple in Scottish cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the Highlands of Scotland, where hearty and warming dishes are essential to combat the cold and damp weather. This soup is often served at special occasions and gatherings, as it is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Ingredients

1 slice of hearty thick white bread
4 fl oz (118 ml) of milk
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cooked and minced
4 almonds, ground
2 hard-boiled eggs, yolks only
32 fl oz (946 ml) of low sodium chicken broth
salt
white pepper
0.25 tsp of grated nutmeg
2 tsp of freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 egg yolks
4 fl oz (118 ml) of heavy cream
2 tbsp of finely diced cooked ????

How to prepare

Remove the crusts from the bread and place the bread in a small saucepan.
Cover the bread with milk and bring it to a boil.
Set it aside and allow it to cool slightly.
Pound the minced chicken, almonds, and hard-boiled yolks in a mortar until smooth, then transfer them to a large bowl.
Gradually beat in the bread and milk.
Stir in the stock, then pass the mixture through a sieve into a saucepan.
Bring it to a boil, season with salt and pepper, add nutmeg and lemon juice, and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
Beat the egg yolks with the cream and blend in 3 tablespoonfuls of the hot soup.
Stir the mixture into the soup and heat it gently for 2 or 3 minutes.
DO NOT ALLOW IT TO BOIL.
When it thickens, serve it with diced chicken as a garnish.

Variations

Add diced vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions for added flavor and nutrition.
Use shredded cooked chicken instead of minced chicken for a different texture.
Garnish the soup with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the chicken breasts thoroughly before mincing them for the soup.

- Use low sodium chicken broth to control the salt content of the soup.

- Gradually beat in the bread and milk mixture to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Do not allow the soup to boil once the egg yolks and cream are added, as this can cause the soup to curdle.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Highland Chicken Soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup gently to prevent curdling.

- Use a sieve to strain the soup for a smooth and creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond milk or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative.

- Substitute ground walnuts or pecans for the almonds.

Make Ahead Tips

Highland Chicken Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg or a drizzle of cream for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Highland Chicken Soup with a crisp white wine or a hearty red ale for a delicious meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 320 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 18g per serving

Saturated Fat: 8g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Highland Chicken Soup is a good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, and Iron.

Alergens

Contains: Milk, Eggs, Nuts

Summary

Highland Chicken Soup is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish.

Summary

Highland Chicken Soup is a classic Scottish dish that is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. This comforting soup is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. Enjoy this hearty dish with your family and friends for a taste of Scotland's culinary heritage.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a crisp autumn day in the highlands of Scotland, and I was visiting a dear friend who lived in a cozy cottage nestled in the rolling hills. As soon as I stepped inside her warm kitchen, I was enveloped in the comforting scent of simmering broth and hearty vegetables.

My friend, Mary, greeted me with a warm smile and a steaming bowl of chicken soup. She had a twinkle in her eye as she handed me the bowl and said, "This is my family's recipe for Highland Chicken Soup. It's been passed down for generations, and I'm happy to share it with you."

I took a sip of the soup and was immediately transported to a world of rich flavors and comforting warmth. The broth was infused with the earthy flavors of thyme and rosemary, and the tender chunks of chicken melted in my mouth. The vegetables added a pop of color and texture, making each bite a delight for the senses.

As I savored the soup, Mary regaled me with stories of her grandmother, who was known far and wide for her culinary skills. She had learned the recipe from her own mother, who had learned it from her grandmother, and so on down the line. Each generation added their own twist to the recipe, making it truly unique to their family.

I was enchanted by the history and tradition behind the soup, and I knew I had to learn how to make it for myself. Mary graciously agreed to teach me, and we spent the rest of the day chopping vegetables, simmering broth, and sharing stories of our own families.

By the time the soup was ready, the sun had dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the cottage. We sat down at the table, our bowls steaming in front of us, and dug into the delicious meal we had created together.

As I took my first bite of the Highland Chicken Soup that I had helped to make, I felt a sense of pride and connection to the generations of women who had come before me. The flavors danced on my tongue, reminding me of the rich history and traditions that had shaped my own love of cooking.

From that day on, Highland Chicken Soup became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home. Each time I stirred the pot and watched the ingredients come together, I felt a connection to Mary and her family, and to the long line of women who had passed down this recipe through the ages.

And now, as I sit here in my own kitchen, preparing a batch of Highland Chicken Soup for my grandchildren, I am filled with gratitude for the memories and traditions that have enriched my life. I know that as they take their first bite of this delicious soup, they will be tasting not just a recipe, but a piece of history and a legacy of love.