Avgolemono (Greece)
Avgolemono is a traditional Greek soup that beautifully blends the flavors of egg and lemon to create a dish that is both comforting and refreshing.
The name “avgolemono” translates to “egg-lemon” in Greek, which perfectly encapsulates the essence of this classic recipe.
Often served as a starter or a light meal, this soup is known for its silky texture and tangy flavor, making it a beloved dish in Greek households.
Traditionally, avgolemono is made with chicken or vegetable broth and is often enriched with rice or orzo pasta, giving it substance and heartiness.
The soup is thickened with a mixture of eggs and lemon juice, which is carefully tempered to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
This process creates a luscious, creamy consistency that coats the grains beautifully. It’s a dish that brings comfort, warmth, and a touch of elegance to any dining table.
Whether you’re looking for a light starter for a Mediterranean meal or a comforting bowl to enjoy on a chilly evening, avgolemono is sure to satisfy. Let’s delve into the ingredients and steps to create this delightful Greek soup.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup uncooked rice (or orzo pasta)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1 lemon, zested (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Optional Chicken:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (optional, for a heartier soup)
How to Make Avgolemono
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, add the uncooked rice (or orzo) and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 15-20 minutes, until the grains are tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg-Lemon Mixture 3. While the rice is cooking, separate the eggs, placing the yolks in a large mixing bowl and the whites in a separate bowl. 4. Whisk the egg yolks until they are pale and frothy. Gradually add the lemon juice and lemon zest (if using) while continuing to whisk until well combined.
Step 3: Temper the Eggs 5. To prevent the eggs from scrambling when added to the hot broth, you must temper the egg mixture. Gradually add a ladleful of the hot broth to the egg-lemon mixture while whisking constantly. This will slowly raise the temperature of the eggs. 6. Repeat the process by adding another ladleful of broth until you’ve added about 2 cups of hot broth to the egg mixture. This should take about 3-4 ladles.
Step 4: Combine and Thicken 7. Once the egg mixture is tempered, slowly pour it back into the pot with the remaining broth while continuously stirring. This will help thicken the soup and create a creamy texture. 8. If using cooked chicken, add it to the pot at this stage. Stir to combine and heat through.
Step 5: Adjust and Serve 9. Taste the avgolemono and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. 10. Remove the pot from heat. The soup will thicken slightly as it cools. 11. Ladle the avgolemono into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh dill or parsley.
Step 6: Enjoy 12. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors of this traditional Greek soup!
Chef’s Note
Avgolemono is a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit your preferences. Feel free to experiment with the herbs you use for garnishing; fresh thyme or mint can also work wonderfully. The balance of lemon in the soup is crucial, as it gives avgolemono its characteristic brightness. If you prefer a more pronounced lemon flavor, feel free to increase the lemon juice to your liking.
Be cautious while tempering the eggs; the key is to add the hot broth gradually while whisking continuously. This prevents the eggs from cooking too quickly and ensures a smooth texture.
If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the rice or orzo will continue to absorb broth over time, so you may need to add a bit of water or broth when reheating to restore the desired consistency.
For an elevated presentation, consider serving avgolemono in elegant bowls with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Avgolemono is a heartwarming Greek soup that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. Its combination of tender grains, creamy egg-lemon mixture, and fragrant herbs creates a dish that is both comforting and invigorating.
Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, this soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the delightful taste of Greece with every spoonful!
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