Danish Chicken Broth Soup Recipe and My Sojourn in Odense
In the heart of Denmark, nestled among charming cities and picturesque landscapes, lies a culinary gem: the Hønsekødssuppe, the country's most cherished dish. This open-faced sandwich on rye bread, known as Smørrebrød, might steal the spotlight, but the Hønsekødssuppe, a clear chicken soup, is a close second.
The Traditional Danish Hønsekødssuppe Recipe
The Hønsekødssuppe is a clear chicken soup made from a whole chicken simmered to create a rich broth, typically including vegetables and often served with small meatballs known as frikadeller or soufflé balls.
Traditional Ingredients:
- A whole hen (or old chicken for a stronger flavor)
- Water (for broth)
- Carrots, leeks, celery or celeriac, and optionally parsley root (for authentic flavor)
- Onion
- Black peppercorns
- Salt
- Eggs, flour, or breadcrumbs (for making small meatballs or soufflé balls)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
- Simmer the chicken: Place the whole hen in a large pot filled with cold water. Add whole black peppercorns and a peeled onion (sometimes studded with cloves). Simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours until the meat is tender and the broth is flavorful.
- Prepare vegetables: Peel and chop the vegetables into small pieces. Add these to the broth after the initial simmering.
- Make meatballs or soufflé balls: Mix ground meat or leftover chicken meat with egg, flour (or breadcrumbs), salt, and pepper, forming very small balls.
- Cook meatballs: Add these small balls to the simmering soup and cook until they rise and are fully cooked.
- Strain and serve: Strain the broth for clarity if desired, arrange the chicken meat (removed from the bones) in bowls, and ladle the broth with vegetables and meatballs over it.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
The Flavour of Denmark in a Bowl
The Danish Hønsekødssuppe embodies the understated yet flavourful character of Danish cooking. Spices are used judiciously to enhance rather than overpower dishes. The Hønsekødssuppe involves simmering a whole chicken with vegetables and herbs to create a rich, clear broth. The soup's main components are tender chicken and vegetables.
A Hearty and Comforting Dish
The Danish Hønsekødssuppe is a hearty and comforting dish, often eaten during colder months, and is a favourite for families. It is commonly served as a traditional Danish dish, reflecting the country's focus on fresh, local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
Whether you're exploring the cobblestone streets of Odense or enjoying a quiet evening at home, the Hønsekødssuppe offers a taste of Denmark's rich food heritage. So, why not give this traditional Danish dish a try and experience the flavours of Denmark in a bowl?
