Description
A classic Greek comfort soup, reimagined for a vibrant, modern palate. This version uses hearty whole-grain farro and a richer vegetable base to deliver a luxuriously creamy, high-fiber meal that is both deeply satisfying and wonderfully wholesome. The bright lemon finish makes it an unforgettable dish.
Ingredients
- 1.5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 large leek (white and light green parts only, finely chopped)
- 2 medium celery ribs (finely chopped)
- 1 large carrot (peeled and finely grated)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 8 cups 64 oz low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup pearled farro (rinsed)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1.5 lbs boneless (skinless chicken breasts)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Fine sea salt (optional, to taste)
- 1/4 cup mixed fresh herbs (chopped (dill and parsley))
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, warm the oil. Add leek, celery, and carrot; sauté 6–7 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic; cook 1 minute.
- Add broth, farro, bay leaf, and black pepper; bring to a gentle simmer. Nestle in chicken breasts.
- Simmer gently 12–15 minutes, then check chicken with an instant-read thermometer; remove when it reaches 165°F (74°C). Continue simmering the soup 25–30 minutes total, or until farro is tender. Discard bay leaf. Shred chicken.
- In a blender, combine eggs, lemon juice, and zest. Carefully add about 1 cup hot broth; blend 30 seconds until smooth and frothy (lid vented).
- Reduce soup to just-steaming (no bubbles). Slowly whisk in the egg-lemon mixture. Stir 2–3 minutes, keeping soup at 160–170°F (71–77°C); do not boil.
- Return shredded chicken to the pot; warm 2 minutes. Season to taste with optional salt and more pepper.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs.
Notes
- Blender Alternative: If you do not have a blender, whisk the eggs and lemon juice vigorously in a medium bowl. Very slowly, ladle by ladle, whisk about 2 cups of the hot broth into the egg mixture to temper it. Then, slowly pour the mixture back into the pot while stirring constantly.
- Storage: The soup is best enjoyed fresh. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Do not bring to a boil.
Nutrition Facts (per serving: 1/6 recipe): Calories: 385 kcal | Total Fat: 11.6 g (Saturated Fat: 2.7 g) | Total Carbs: 32.8 g (Fiber: 3.4 g, Net Carbs: 29.4 g) | Protein: 39.4 g | Sodium: 212 mg
These values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients and preparation.
Nutrition
- Calories: 385