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Fermented Vegetable Chicken Soup

This chicken soup features a comforting broth enriched with shredded chicken and aromatic vegetables, elevated by the tangy depth of fermented vegetables added at the end. The soup is simmered gently for a layered flavor, resulting in a hearty, slightly sour dish with tender ingredients and a bright, savory profile.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups chicken broth preferably homemade or low-sodium store-bought
  • 1 cup fermented vegetables such as kimchi or fermented cabbage, chopped
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken use leftover roast or poached chicken
  • 2 large carrots diced
  • 2 stalks celery diced
  • 1 lemon lemon zested and juiced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon oil olive or vegetable oil

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once shimmering, add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
  2. Add diced carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables start to soften and release their aroma.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, stir in shredded chicken, and cook for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and ingredients to become tender.
  4. Stir in a spoonful of chopped fermented vegetables, letting the soup simmer gently for another 5 minutes. This step infuses the broth with a tangy, umami depth.
  5. Season the soup with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add lemon zest and juice to brighten the flavors, then taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Remove the pot from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to fully develop and meld together.
  7. Give the soup a gentle stir, then ladle into bowls, making sure to include a good mix of chicken, vegetables, and broth.
  8. Enjoy the soup hot, with a slice of crusty bread if desired, and appreciate the complex layers of savory and tangy flavors.

Notes

For extra depth, let the fermented vegetables sit for a few minutes before adding, adjusting salt to balance the tanginess. Be cautious with the salt, as fermented vegetables can be salty. The soup pairs beautifully with a fresh baguette or crusty bread.