Bijela Čorba
Introduction to Bijela Čorba
Bijela Čorba, translating to "white soup" in English, is a beloved traditional dish found primarily in Serbian and other Balkan cuisines. This hearty potage is known for its mild, creamy flavor and satisfying creaminess, making it a staple comfort food in many households across the region. Historically, it is said to have been a dish served at a variety of occasions, from everyday family meals to festive gatherings. Its origins track back to rural Serbia, where simplicity and rich flavors were key to achieving hearty meals with readily available ingredients. Often served as a starter, Bijela Čorba has also been adapted into many variations by different families, each adding their unique touch to the recipe.
Ingredients for Bijela Čorba
- Chicken (500g, bone-in, skin-on pieces)
- Onion (1 large, finely chopped)
- Carrot (2 medium, diced)
- Celery (1 stalk, diced)
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Bay leaf (1)
- Black peppercorns (10 pieces)
- Potato (2 medium, peeled and diced)
- Rice (1/4 cup)
- Sour cream (1 cup)
- Egg yolk (1)
- Flour (2 tablespoons)
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped)
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start making Bijela Čorba, ensure all your ingredients are well-prepared. Finely chop the onions and garlic, dice the carrots and celery into small, even pieces, and peel and dice the potatoes. Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
Cooking the Chicken
In a large soup pot, place the chicken pieces along with 6 cups of water. Bring this to a boil over medium heat, and once boiling, reduce to a simmer. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface to ensure a clear broth. To the chicken pot, add the bay leaf and black peppercorns. Allow the chicken to simmer for about 30 minutes until tender and cooked through.
Adding Vegetables
While the chicken is cooking, check for tenderness and remove any visible fat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Add the potatoes and prepped rice, and let everything come together over the next 20 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and the flavors to meld.
Creamy Soup Mixture
Creating the Roux
To prepare the creamy base of our Bijela Čorba, start by making a roux. In a separate pan, melt some butter over medium heat and add flour, stirring continuously until you achieve a pale golden paste. Slowly add a cup of water, stirring to avoid lumps, then simmer until it thickens.
Incorporating Cream with Egg Yolks
Beat the sour cream and egg yolk together in a bowl. Temper this mixture with a few ladles of hot broth from the pot to prevent curdling. Gradually whisk this mixture back into the soup, stirring continuously to blend well.
Finishing Touches
Add a splash of lemon juice to cut through the creaminess, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer to ensure everything is heated through. Finally, stir in chopped parsley to add a refreshing herbal note.
Cooking Time
For more precision, use this cooking timer guide – Total cooking time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, starting with the preparation of ingredients to the final touches in these rather hands-on yet straightforward steps.
Serving Suggestions
Bijela Čorba is best enjoyed hot, served with a slice of crusty bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up the rich, creamy broth. Consider pairing this comforting dish with a light salad or as a starter for a more substantial Balkan-inspired meal. It's a versatile dish that suits both casual lunches and festive dinners, often evoking nostalgic feelings of cozy family gatherings.