best pennsylvania dutch chicken corn soup
If you’re looking for a dish that brings the warmth of home and smiles all around, then you’ve hit the jackpot with this Pennsylvania Dutch chicken corn soup! I love how each spoonful is packed with tender chicken, sweet corn, and delightful dumplings that just melt in your mouth. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this comforting recipe that’s perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings!
Simple Ingredients for Delicious Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Corn Soup
Let’s gather all the simple ingredients you’ll need to create this comforting Pennsylvania dutch chicken corn soup. Each item plays a vital role in achieving that rich, flavorful broth and the delicious dumplings!
Ingredients:
- 2 (3-pound) whole chickens, cut into pieces
- 3 quarts water – a base for your soup
- 3 onions, minced – for a sweet depth of flavor
- 1 cup chopped celery – adds a nice crunch and freshness
- 2 ½ tablespoons salt – to season the broth perfectly
- 1 ¼ teaspoons ground nutmeg – gives a warm, cozy aroma
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – for a subtle kick
- 10 ears of fresh corn, kernels cut from the cob – the star of the show, providing sweetness
- 3 eggs, divided – used in the soup and for the dumplings
- 1 cup sifted all-purpose flour – essential for our dumplings
- ½ cup milk – adds a touch of creaminess to the dough
When you gather these ingredients, think about the freshness of the corn and the rich taste of the chicken. This soup is all about layering flavors and creating a dish that warms you from the inside out.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Corn Soup
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions. I promise it’s easier than it sounds, and soon you’ll have a pot full of deliciousness simmering on your stove!
Instructions:
- Combine Chicken and Broth: In a large stockpot, add the cut chicken pieces, water, minced onions, chopped celery, salt, nutmeg, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- simmer the Chicken: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer gently for about 2 hours or until the chicken is tender. If the liquid gets too low, feel free to add hot water as needed.
- Cool Down: Carefully transfer the chicken to a deep dish and pour the soup into a large jug or bowl. Cover both and refrigerate for 6 to 8 hours. This helps develop the flavors and allows any fat to solidify for easy removal.
- Remove Excess Fat: After chilling, skim off the solidified fat from the surface of the soup. This will help you achieve a clearer and lighter broth.
- Add the Corn: Pour the soup back into a large pot and heat it over medium. Stir in the fresh corn and bring to a gentle boil.Cook until the corn is tender, about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Eggs: In a small saucepan,place 2 of the eggs and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and cover. Let them sit for 10 to 12 minutes. Afterward, cool and chop them.
- Shred the chicken: While the soup simmers, chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Stir the chicken back into the soup.
- Make the Dumplings: In a medium bowl, whisk the remaining egg until light. Add the flour and milk, mixing until smooth. Drop small pieces of this dough into the simmering soup. Allow them to cook until they float to the top, about 2 to 5 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the chopped boiled egg, mix well, and let the soup cook for another minute. Now it’s ready to serve!
And there you have it! Follow these steps, and you’ll create a delightful bowl of Pennsylvania Dutch chicken corn soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process and savor every spoonful!
Serving and Storage Details for Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Corn Soup
Once you’ve stirred up a pot of Pennsylvania Dutch chicken corn soup, it’s time to think about serving and storage. This hearty soup is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners and makes a fantastic comfort food option.
Serving Suggestions:
- This recipe yields about 12 servings, so it’s great for sharing. I love serving it with crusty bread or homemade cornbread for a well-rounded meal.
- Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley or chopped green onions to add a pop of color and freshness.
- For a little zing, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of black pepper just before serving.
Storage Tips:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even more delicious when reheated.
- If you want to keep the soup for a longer period, it freezes beautifully! Just ensure it is fully cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat.
- Avoid freezing the dumplings. If you plan to freeze the soup, consider adding fresh dumplings when you reheat to maintain their texture.
These tips will help you enjoy your chicken corn soup warm and flavorful, whether you’re sharing it with friends or savoring it by yourself.
Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Pennsylvania Dutch Chicken Corn Soup
Making Pennsylvania dutch chicken corn soup can be a delightful experience, but it’s always helpful to have a few notes and troubleshooting tips on hand. Here’s what I’ve learned along the way:
Notes:
- Chicken Choice: Using whole chickens adds unbelievable flavor,but you can opt for boneless,skinless chicken thighs if you’re short on time. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Fresh Corn: Nothing compares to the sweet crunch of fresh corn, but if it’s out of season, you can use frozen corn. Just add it in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Nutmeg: A little ground nutmeg is key to the unique flavor of this soup. Don’t skip it! Just a small amount goes a long way.
Troubleshooting:
- Too Thick? If your soup turns out thicker than desired, simply add a bit more water or chicken broth to reach your preferred consistency.
- Too Salty? If you find it too salty, adding a bit of cream or a few more potatoes can help balance the flavors.
- Dumplings Not Rising? If the dumplings don’t seem to hold their shape, check that you didn’t overmix the dough. Aim for a “just mixed” texture for the best results.
With these serving suggestions and notes, you’re all set for a successful cook. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!