Zeamă

Zeamă – comforting Moldovan chicken soup
Moldova
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Zeamă is a traditional Moldovan chicken soup, known for its rich flavors and comforting qualities. Often enjoyed during family gatherings or as a remedy for colds, this dish holds a special place in Moldovan cuisine. It embodies the warmth of home cooking, making it a staple in many households.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~250 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cut into pieces
  • 10 cups water
  • 2 large carrots, sliced
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup egg noodles or small pasta
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Prepare the Broth

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides.

Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.

Simmer the Broth

Add the sliced carrots, bay leaves, thyme, dill, salt, and pepper to the pot.

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Add the Noodles

Remove the chicken pieces from the pot and set aside. Discard the bay leaves.

Add the egg noodles or small pasta to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes, until tender.

Shred the Chicken

While the noodles are cooking, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the chicken to the pot once the noodles are cooked.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh dill, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Zeamă?

Zeamă is a traditional Moldovan soup made primarily from chicken, vegetables, and herbs, celebrated for its soothing properties.

Where does Zeamă come from?

Zeamă originates from Moldova, where it is cherished as a comfort food and often served during special occasions.

What are the main ingredients in Zeamă?

The key ingredients in Zeamă include whole chicken, carrots, onion, garlic, bay leaves, and herbs like thyme and dill.

How long does Zeamă take to make?

Zeamă takes about 75-90 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Zeamă?

Zeamă is often served with crusty bread or a side of polenta, and garnished with fresh herbs for added flavor.