Sopa de Quinua con Pollo
A hearty and nutritious soup, Sopa de Quinua con Pollo is a staple in Ecuadorian households. It combines the ancient grain quinoa with tender chicken pieces, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, creating a comforting and wholesome meal perfect for any occasion.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Chicken pieces(bone-in, such as thighs or drumsticks)
- 2.5 L Water
- 1 cup Quinoa(rinsed thoroughly)
- 3 medium Medium potatoes(peeled and diced)
- 2 medium Carrots(diced)
- 2 stalks Celery stalks(chopped)
- 1 medium Yellow onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 1/2 bunch Fresh cilantro(chopped)
- 1/4 bunch Fresh parsley(chopped)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 2
Add the chicken pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides. Season with salt and pepper.
- 3
Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- 4
Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Once cool enough to handle, shred or dice the chicken meat and discard the bones.
- 5
Add the rinsed quinoa, diced potatoes, diced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot with the broth. Bring back to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa and vegetables are tender.
- 6
Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Stir in the chopped cilantro and parsley. Cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- 7
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Rinsing quinoa is crucial to remove its natural coating, which can cause bitterness.
- ✓You can add other vegetables like peas or green beans.
- ✓For a richer broth, use chicken stock instead of water.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of cumin for an earthy flavor.
- For a spicier soup, add a finely chopped chili pepper with the onions and garlic.