Best 2 Canja Portuguese Chicken Soup Recipes

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In the realm of culinary delights, embark on a tantalizing journey to savor the essence of Portuguese gastronomy with "Canja", a soul-warming chicken soup brimming with rustic charm. Originating from the heart of Portugal, this quintessential dish holds a cherished place in the nation's culinary heritage. Whether you seek comfort on a chilly evening or a soothing remedy for common ailments, Canja stands ready to envelop you in its comforting embrace. Discover the authentic recipe, along with variations such as Canja de Galinha, Canja de Pato, and Canja Vegetariana, each bursting with unique flavors that celebrate the diversity of Portuguese cuisine. With step-by-step instructions and a treasure trove of helpful tips, indulge in the art of preparing this cherished Portuguese soup and experience the warmth of its comforting embrace.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

CANJA (PORTUGUESE CHICKEN SOUP)



Canja (Portuguese Chicken Soup) image

Canja is a popular Portuguese soup - made with rice, chicken, & onion. It is a soothing soup that will warm your soul & stomach. The photo doesn't do this soup any justice (soup photos never come out any good on the camera from my phone lol).. but, it is really tasty!

Provided by Tara Pacheco

Categories     Other Soups

Time 40m

Number Of Ingredients 9

3/4 chicken breast
1/2 onion, minced
2 clove garlic, minced
8 c water
1 packet poultry seasoning, or bouillon
1/2 c long grain rice
1/2 lemon
2 Tbsp olive oil
salt & pepper

Steps:

  • 1. In a large pot, boil your chicken breast over med/high heat. Once chicken is just about done, remove from water and shred with a fork. Add the poultry seasoning to your pot. Place the chicken back in.
  • 2. Saute your onion & garlic in olive oil until onion is translucent. Cook over medium heat, being careful not to burn your garlic.
  • 3. Add the onion & garlic mixture, along with your rice to the pot and allow to cook until rice is expanded and tender.
  • 4. Add salt & pepper to taste. Add juice of half a lemon. Serve & enjoy!

PORTUGUESE CHICKEN SOUP (CANJA)



Portuguese Chicken Soup (Canja) image

Virtually every culture on Earth has a style of making chicken soup that they can call their own, and in Portugal it involves rice, lemon, and mint. Adapted from Worldwide Recipes.

Provided by TxGriffLover

Categories     Chicken

Time 1h

Yield 4-6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 10

6 -8 cups chicken stock
1 lb chicken piece
1 onion, thinly sliced
4 sprigs parsley
1 the lemon, zest of, cut in thick strips
1/2 cup uncooked rice or 1/2 cup tiny pasta, shape
1/4 cup chopped mint leaf, plus additional (to garnish)
1 teaspoon lemon juice (to taste)
salt & freshly ground black pepper
lemon slice (to garnish)

Steps:

  • Combine the chicken stock, chicken pieces, onion, parsley, and lemon zest in a large pot and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer covered until the chicken is cooked through, about 30 minutes.
  • Remove the chicken pieces and cool enough to handle. Remove and discard the skin and bones and cut or tear the meat into small pieces.
  • Strain the soup through cheesecloth (muslin) and discard the solids. Return the stock and meat to the pot and add the rice, mint, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until the rice is tender, about 20 minutes.
  • Garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves.

Tips for Making the Best Canja:

  • Use a whole chicken: This will give the soup a richer flavor.
  • Roast the chicken before simmering: This will add a delicious depth of flavor to the soup.
  • Use a variety of vegetables: This will make the soup more colorful and nutritious.
  • Don't overcrowd the pot: Make sure there is enough room for the chicken and vegetables to cook evenly.
  • Simmer the soup for at least 1 hour: This will allow the flavors to meld together.
  • Season the soup to taste: Add salt, pepper, and other spices to taste.
  • Serve the soup with crusty bread or rice: This will help to soak up the delicious broth.

Conclusion:

Canja is a delicious and comforting soup that is perfect for a cold winter day. It is also a great way to use up leftover chicken. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So next time you're looking for a hearty and flavorful soup, give Canja a try!

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