Sancocho de Gallina

Sancocho de Gallina Recipe - Traditional Colombian Chicken Stew

Region / culture: Colombia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Sancocho de Gallina is a traditional Colombian chicken soup that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal. This dish is a staple in Colombian cuisine and is often enjoyed during family gatherings and special occasions.

History

Sancocho de Gallina has its roots in the indigenous communities of Colombia, where it was originally made with local ingredients such as yucca, plantains, and potatoes. Over time, the recipe evolved to include chicken as the main protein, giving the soup a rich and savory flavor.

Ingredients

1.5 qt (1.42 liter) chicken stock
1 yucca, peeled and cut into 1"x1"x1" pieces
2 plantains, peeled, halved, and sliced into thirds longitudinally
2 red potatoes, peeled (optional) and cut into chunks
3 whole chicken breasts, skinned and quartered with bones left on
2 lemons, juiced
1 tsp cumin
1 bunch scallions
1 bunch cilantro

How to prepare

Simmer scallions, cilantro, and cumin in 1 cup (240 ml) of chicken stock for a few minutes.
Simmer the quartered, skinned chicken breasts in the remaining 1.25 qt (1.18 liters) of chicken stock.
Once the chicken starts to simmer, add cut-up, peeled yucca and cut-up potatoes.
Continue to skim off any scum that forms after adding the yucca and potatoes to the soup.
About half an hour before the soup is done, add cut-up plantains.
10 minutes before the soup is done, add the processed scallions-cilantro-cumin mixture and the juice from 2 lemons.
Add roux to thicken the soup, stirring well to combine.
Ensure that the potatoes and yucca are cooked until soft, and check a piece of chicken for doneness.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Variations

For a twist on the traditional recipe, try adding corn on the cob, carrots, or green plantains to the soup for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of the soup, simmer scallions, cilantro, and cumin in chicken stock before adding the chicken and vegetables.

- Skim off any scum that forms on the surface of the soup while cooking to ensure a clear and clean broth.

- Add the plantains towards the end of the cooking process to prevent them from becoming too mushy.

- Thicken the soup with a roux made from flour and water, stirring well to combine.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Sancocho de Gallina hot with a side of white rice and avocado slices for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the soup slowly over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together and develop a rich and savory broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

If yucca is not available, you can substitute with cassava or sweet potatoes for a similar texture and flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Sancocho de Gallina 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 fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime juice for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Sancocho de Gallina with a crisp white wine or a cold beer to complement the rich and savory flavors of the soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- A serving of Sancocho de Gallina typically contains around 400-500 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

- Yucca, plantains, and potatoes are all rich in carbohydrates, providing a good source of energy for the body.

Fats

- Chicken breasts contain healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health and overall well-being.

Proteins

- Chicken is a lean source of protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

Yucca, plantains, and potatoes are all rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium.

Alergens

This recipe contains chicken, which may be an allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before serving.

Summary

Sancocho de Gallina is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Sancocho de Gallina is a delicious and comforting Colombian chicken soup that is perfect for a cozy meal with family and friends. With its hearty ingredients and rich flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. Sancocho de Gallina, a traditional Colombian chicken soup, is a dish that has been passed down through generations in my family. I remember my grandmother teaching me how to make it when I was just a young girl.

I grew up in a small village in the Colombian countryside, where food was not just a means of sustenance, but a way of life. My grandmother was the heart and soul of our family, and her kitchen was always filled with the most delicious aromas. She was a masterful cook, and I learned everything I know about cooking from her.

One day, as I watched her prepare a pot of Sancocho de Gallina, I asked her where she had learned the recipe. She smiled and told me that she had first learned to make it from her own grandmother, who had learned it from her mother before her. The recipe had been passed down through the generations, each cook adding their own twist to make it their own.

As my grandmother guided me through the steps of making the soup, I listened intently and absorbed every detail. I watched as she chopped vegetables, simmered the chicken in a flavorful broth, and added herbs and spices to create a rich and fragrant soup. I could see the love and care she put into every step, and I knew that this dish was more than just a meal – it was a legacy.

After hours of simmering on the stove, the soup was finally ready. My grandmother ladled out steaming bowls of Sancocho de Gallina, and we sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor. The soup was hearty and comforting, with tender chicken, starchy vegetables, and a rich broth that warmed me to my core. I savored every spoonful, knowing that this recipe was a link to my family's past.

Over the years, I have made Sancocho de Gallina countless times, each time adding my own touch to the recipe. I have shared it with friends and family, passing on the tradition that was passed down to me. Every time I make it, I feel connected to my roots and to the strong, resilient women who came before me.

As I grow older, I realize the importance of preserving these recipes and traditions for future generations. I have written down the recipe for Sancocho de Gallina, along with many others, so that my children and grandchildren can continue to enjoy the flavors of our heritage. I hope that one day they will cook this soup in their own kitchens, passing on the tradition to their own families.

In a world that is constantly changing, it is comforting to know that some things remain constant. The recipe for Sancocho de Gallina is more than just a list of ingredients and instructions – it is a reminder of who I am and where I come from. It is a way to honor my grandmother and all the women who came before her, and to keep their memories alive through the simple act of cooking a meal.

As I sit here now, savoring a bowl of Sancocho de Gallina that I have made with my own hands, I am filled with gratitude for the rich culinary heritage that has been passed down to me. I am proud to carry on the tradition of my ancestors, and to share it with those I love. And as I take another spoonful of soup, I am reminded once again of the power of food to nourish not just our bodies, but our souls as well.