Caldo de Gallina con Verduras
A hearty and flavorful chicken soup made with a whole hen and a variety of vegetables, simmered to perfection. This comforting dish is a staple in Guatemalan households, often prepared for family gatherings and to ward off the chill.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 each Whole hen(cleaned and cut into serving pieces)
- 10 cups Water(or enough to cover)
- 2 tablespoons Salt(or to taste)
- 2 large Carrots(peeled and cut into large chunks)
- 2 large Celery stalks(cut into large chunks)
- 1 large Onion(peeled and quartered)
- 3 each Garlic cloves(peeled and crushed)
- 1 each Fresh parsley sprig
- 1 each Bay leaf
- 1 pound Potatoes(cut into large cubes)
- 1 medium Chayote(peeled and cut into large chunks)
- 1 medium Zucchini(cut into large chunks)
- 0.5 cup Cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Place the hen pieces in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low. Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface.
- 2
Add the carrots, celery, onion, garlic, parsley, and bay leaf to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 3
Cover and simmer for approximately 2 hours, or until the hen is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Add the potatoes, chayote, and zucchini during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- 4
Remove the hen from the pot. Discard the bay leaf and parsley sprig. You can shred the meat and return it to the pot, or serve it in pieces.
- 5
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can use a free-range or 'criolla' hen.
- ✓If chayote is unavailable, you can substitute with another firm squash.
- ✓Adjust the amount of salt to your preference, especially if using a salted broth.
- ✓This soup is excellent for meal prepping; leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a handful of noodles or rice during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Include other vegetables like green beans, corn, or cabbage.
- For a spicier broth, add a jalapeño pepper to the pot while simmering.