Sopa de Pollo con Chipilín
Sopa de Pollo con Chipilín is a nourishing and aromatic chicken soup popular in Honduras and other Central American countries. The star ingredient, chipilín, is a herb with a distinct flavor and aroma, often described as a cross between spinach and mint. This soup typically includes tender chicken pieces, a variety of vegetables like yuca, carrots, and chayote, and is seasoned with traditional spices. It's a comforting and healthy dish, perfect for a chilly day or when you need a revitalizing meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 lbs Chicken(bone-in pieces like thighs or drumsticks)
- 8 cups Chicken broth or water
- 4 cups Chipilín leaves(fresh, washed and de-stemmed)
- 2 medium Yuca (cassava)(peeled and cut into chunks)
- 3 medium Carrots(peeled and sliced)
- 1 medium Chayote (guisquil/pipian)(peeled, seeded, and cut into chunks)
- 1 medium Green bell pepper(chopped)
- 1 large Tomato(chopped)
- 0.5 large Onion(chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 0.5 tsp Achiote powder or paste(for color)
- to taste Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 0.5 tsp Cumin
- 0.5 tsp Oregano
- 1 Bay leaf
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped tomato, and chopped green bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the achiote, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- 2
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and sear them for a few minutes on each side until lightly browned.
- 3
Pour in the chicken broth or water and add the bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- 4
Add the yuca, carrots, and chayote to the pot. Continue to simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- 5
Stir in the fresh chipilín leaves. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the leaves are wilted and tender. Be careful not to overcook the chipilín, as it can lose its vibrant color and flavor.
- 6
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
💡 Tip: Chipilín has a unique flavor; add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its aroma. - 7
Serve hot, ensuring each bowl has chicken and a variety of vegetables.
💡 Tip: This soup is often enjoyed with a side of rice or tortillas.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If fresh chipilín is unavailable, you might find it frozen in Latin American markets.
- ✓You can add other vegetables like potatoes or green beans.
- ✓For a richer broth, use chicken thighs or drumsticks.
🔄 Variations
- Some recipes include a small amount of rice or pasta to thicken the soup.
- A splash of lime juice can add brightness to the finished soup.