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Avgolemono soup

Avgolemono soup

Avgolemono soup stands out as a quintessential representation of Greek culinary tradition. This vibrant, velvety soup embodies the essence of Greek cuisine, harmoniously combining straightforward ingredients with a refined technique honed over many years. The term Avgolemono originates from the Greek lexicon, combining “avgo” (egg) and “lemono” (lemon), which serve as the fundamental elements contributing to its unique flavor profile.

A refined broth, typically crafted from chicken or vegetable stock, constitutes the essential base of Avgolemono soup. The incorporation of a zesty and velvety emulsion crafted from eggs and lemon juice sets this soup apart. The interplay of these components yields a harmonious equilibrium that is simultaneously comforting and stimulating.

The preparation of avgolemono is a nuanced endeavor that demands meticulous attention and exactitude. Vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery are simmered in the broth, imparting a complexity of nuanced flavors. The enchantment commences upon the filtration of the broth. The incorporation of whisked eggs into the broth occurs gradually, resulting in a seamless texture and imparting a luxurious richness to the soup. Subsequently, the incorporation of freshly squeezed lemon juice introduces a vibrant and invigorating element that balances the richness and bestows a delightful tang.

Certain variations of Avgolemono soup incorporate supplementary ingredients to enhance its depth and complexity. Cooked rice or orzo pasta are often incorporated into the mixture, contributing a comforting and substantial element. Delicate fragments of chicken or finely chopped vegetables may be incorporated to transform the soup into a self-sufficient meal.

Avgolemono presents a delightful experience for the senses when served hot and steaming. The aroma of citrus and simmering broth permeates the atmosphere, enticing the palate. The soup envelops the palate with its velvety texture and remarkable harmony of flavors in every spoonful. The lemon introduces a subtle acidity that invigorates the palate and stimulates the sensory receptors.

Avgolemono soup occupies a distinctive place within Greek culture, often gracing festive occasions and family gatherings. This cuisine fosters a sense of community, evoking sentiments of warmth and camaraderie among individuals. The employment of unpretentious ingredients coupled with meticulous technique serves as a tribute to the venerable traditions that have influenced Greek culinary practices.

Avgolemono soup

Recipe by Travel S HelperCourse: Main, SoupsCuisine: GreekDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

30

minutes
Calories

250

kcal

Avgolemono soup is a beloved Greek dish that embodies the warmth and simplicity of Mediterranean cuisine. It is a creamy, tangy soup that combines the richness of eggs with the bright acidity of lemons, creating a nourishing and satisfying bowl. Avgolemono soup is more than just a soup; it is a cooking method used in various Greek dishes, deeply rooted in Greek culinary tradition. It is often served during Greek Easter celebrations and is a year-round favorite in Greek households and tavernas. This recipe yields a velvety, lemony chicken soup with tender rice and a silky egg-based broth. It is the perfect balance of comfort and freshness, ideal for cold days or when you need a boost of warmth and flavor. To make the soup, bring the chicken broth to a boil, add the rice and chicken breasts, reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 8 cups chicken broth

  • 1 cup long-grain rice

  • 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless

  • 4 large eggs

  • 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)

  • 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions

  • In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil over high heat.
  • Add the rice and chicken breasts to the boiling broth. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
  • Remove the chicken breasts and set aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken using two forks.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until light and frothy. Gradually whisk in the lemon juice.
  • Slowly ladle about 2 cups of the hot broth into the egg-lemon mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent curdling.
  • Remove the pot from heat. Slowly pour the egg-lemon mixture back into the pot, stirring constantly.
  • Add the shredded chicken and chopped dill to the pot. Stir gently to combine.
  • Return the pot to low heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the soup is heated through and slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes. Do not let it boil.
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.

Notes

  • The key to a smooth Avgolemono is tempering the eggs properly. Be patient and whisk constantly when adding hot broth to the egg mixture.
  • For a thicker soup, you can use orzo pasta instead of rice, or increase the amount of rice slightly.
  • This soup is best served immediately, as reheating can cause the eggs to curdle. If you need to reheat, do so gently over low heat, stirring constantly.
  • For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the chicken, adding more vegetables like carrots and celery if desired.
  • The soup will continue to thicken as it cools, so you may need to thin it with additional broth when reheating.
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