- Thyme leaves (1 tablespoon fresh, or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Mint leaves (2 tablespoons fresh, for garnish)
- Rice (2 cups basmati rice, rinsed)
- Chicken broth (4 cups, homemade or store-bought)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
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- Canja de Galinha
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- Brazilian Chicken Soup
- Traditional Brazilian Dish
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Steps
### Canja de Galinha Chicken Soup Recipe with Lemon and Mint Rice: A Flavorful Combination
#### Introduction
Canja de galinha is a classic Brazilian dish that has been cherished for its comforting warmth and nutritious value. This soup is often served on Sundays or holidays, making it the perfect choice for special occasions. Combining canja de galinha with lemon and mint rice not only enhances the flavor but also adds a refreshing twist to this traditional recipe.
#### Ingredients
- 3 lbs (1.5 kg) chicken pieces
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 large lemons, cut into wedges
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
For the Lemon and Mint Rice:
- 2 cups basmati rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 lemons, juiced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh mint leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
- Salt to taste
- Optional: A few pinches of saffron for color
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Chicken Soup**
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken pieces, chicken broth, lemon wedges, garlic, onion, and bay leaves.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cook for about 45 minutes to an hour, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
2. **Remove Chicken from Soup**
- Remove the chicken pieces using tongs or a slotted spoon and set aside on a plate. Let it cool slightly before shredding into bite-sized pieces.
- Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into another pot, reserving the solids for adding back to the soup later.
3. **Make the Lemon and Mint Rice**
- In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped mint leaves and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the rice and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb some of the oil and become slightly translucent.
- Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring occasionally to prevent lumps. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
4. **Combine Ingredients**
- Return the shredded chicken back into the soup pot.
- Add the strained broth if needed to adjust consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
5. **Serve**
- Ladle the canja de galinha into bowls, garnish with lemon slices, and serve hot with a side of lemon and mint rice.
#### Tips for Optimal Flavor
- Ensure your chicken is well-seared before adding it to the pot; this will give the soup a deeper flavor.
- Using fresh herbs like mint and lemons ensures that each bite is packed with freshness and aroma.
#### Conclusion
Enjoy this traditional Brazilian dish with its unique twist of lemon and mint rice. It’s perfect for those cozy evenings when you want something hearty yet flavorful. Serve it with crusty bread or a simple salad, and you have a complete meal that’s sure to be loved by your family and friends alike.
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- Canja de galinha recipe
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By following these detailed steps, you can create a delightful canja de galinha with lemon and mint rice that will become a favorite in your home.