Discover the bold flavors of Bulgarian pileshka soup

Bulgarian chicken soup, known as pileshka, is a variation of this classic dish that impresses with its rich spices and unique aroma. Classic chicken soup in Bulgaria is prepared with the addition of vegetables, chicken, and a blend of spices that give it a distinctive taste. Among the most important ingredients that differentiate pileshka from chicken soup are herbs and spices typical of the Balkan region. It's an excellent idea for a hearty, flavorful meal.

Bulgarian chicken soup, known as pileshka, is a traditional soup made with poultry—most often a whole chicken or its parts. It stands out with its distinctive set of spices, which give it a unique, deep flavor and aroma. In pileshka, in addition to basic vegetables such as carrots, parsley root, onion, and celery, spices typical of Balkan cuisine are used, such as oregano, savory, and marjoram.

Thanks to this combination of spices, the soup gains a slightly herbal, bold aroma that is distinct from the classic broth. Additionally, the presence of garlic and bay leaves enhances the depth of flavor, while fresh parsley, added at the end, introduces a touch of freshness. Bulgarian chicken soup pileshka is, therefore, an excellent alternative to traditional chicken soup, perfect for Sunday dinners or cooler days when you're looking for a hearty and warming dish.

Bulgarian chicken soup pileshka is an excellent choice for a hearty, aromatic meal that will delight family members. Thanks to a set of spices typical of Balkan cuisine, the broth gains a unique taste and depth.

Ingredients:                                                      

• 1 whole chicken (or 4-5 drumsticks)
• 2 carrots
• 1 parsley root
• 1 onion
• 1/2 celery
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 2 bay leaves
• 4-5 allspice berries
• 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon marjoram
• 1/2 teaspoon savory
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley for decoration

The secret of pileshka is the selection of spices that give the soup its intense flavor and aroma. Oregano, savory, and marjoram, typical of Balkan cuisine, emphasize the taste of poultry and give the broth a slightly herbal character. Adding garlic and bay leaves gives the broth depth, while fresh parsley adds freshness.

Preparation:                      

1. In a large pot, place the chicken (or drumsticks), cover with cold water, and bring to a boil over medium heat, removing any scum that appears on the surface.
2. Add peeled and chopped vegetables: carrots, parsley root, onion, and celery.
3. Add spices: allspice, bay leaves, black peppercorns, oregano, marjoram, savory, and garlic cloves.
4. Simmer over low heat for about 1.5 hours until the meat and vegetables are tender and the broth has a deep flavor.
5. Season with salt to taste at the end of cooking.
6. Before serving, garnish the chicken soup with parsley.

Additional tips:      

• If you want to give the chicken soup a more intense color, you can roast the onion over a gas flame before adding it to the broth.
• Pileshka can also be enriched with a bit of fresh lovage if you have it on hand—it will enhance the taste and give the soup a characteristic aroma.