Chicken Souse Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 05, 2025

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Chicken Souse Recipe: A Deliciously Simple Caribbean Delight

Chicken souse, a beloved Caribbean comfort food, is a hearty and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend brunch. This recipe delivers a rich, savory broth brimming with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Let's dive into the simple steps to create this culinary masterpiece!

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences and what you have on hand. Feel free to adjust quantities to suit your needs.

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into pieces: You can substitute with bone-in chicken pieces if a whole chicken isn't readily available.
• 8 cups water: This will form the base of your delicious broth.
• 2 large onions, chopped: Provides a wonderful base flavor.
• 3 stalks celery, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and texture.
• 2 carrots, chopped: Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that savory punch.
• 2 scotch bonnet peppers, seeded and minced (optional): These add a fiery kick! Adjust to your spice preference. If you're sensitive to heat, start with just one, or use a milder pepper like a jalapeño.
• 2 sprigs thyme: Classic Caribbean flavor.
• 1 sprig parsley: For freshness and a pop of color.
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice: Adds warmth and depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Enhances the savory notes.
• Salt to taste: Adjust according to your preference.
• Chopped scallions or cilantro for garnish (optional): Adds freshness and visual appeal.
• Cooked dumplings or bread (optional): Served alongside for a hearty meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken pieces thoroughly and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions, celery, and carrots in a little oil until softened. Add the minced garlic and scotch bonnet peppers (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Simmer the Broth: Add the chicken pieces to the pot along with the water, thyme, parsley, allspice, black pepper, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

4. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken meat, discarding the bones and skin.

5. Strain and Season: Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Combine and Serve: Return the shredded chicken to the pot with the broth. Heat through gently. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or cilantro, and accompanied by dumplings or bread if desired.

Tips for the Best Chicken Souse:

• Bone-in Chicken for Flavor: Using a whole chicken or bone-in pieces yields a richer, more flavorful broth.
• Don't Overcrowd the Pot: Ensure enough space in your pot for the chicken and vegetables to simmer properly.
• Adjust the Spices: Feel free to experiment with the spices to suit your taste. You can add other herbs like bay leaves or even a touch of curry powder.
• Make it Ahead: Chicken souse tastes even better the next day! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken souse! This recipe is a fantastic way to showcase the flavors of the Caribbean in your own kitchen. Remember to share your culinary creations with friends and family – the joy of cooking is best shared!