Avgolemono Soup: Greek Healing Soup

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Rice or Orzo

In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the orzo or rice and cook until just tender (about 8–10 minutes for orzo or 15 minutes for rice). Reduce to a simmer.

Step 2: Prepare the Avgolemono (Egg-Lemon Mixture)

While the grains are cooking, whisk the eggs and lemon juice together in a bowl until frothy. This will be the base of your avgolemono sauce.

Step 3: Temper the Egg Mixture

This step is crucial to prevent curdling:

1. Slowly ladle 1 cup of hot broth from the pot into the egg-lemon mixture while whisking constantly.
2. Continue whisking until the mixture is warmed and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Combine the Soup

Slowly pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot, stirring gently. Do not boil the soup after this step, as it can curdle the eggs. The soup should thicken slightly and develop a creamy texture without using any dairy.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Season

Stir in the shredded chicken and season with salt and freshly ground pepper. Let the soup sit on low heat for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh parsley or dill, a crack of black pepper, and a lemon wedge on the side.

🍽️ Serving Tips

• Serve with crusty bread or warm pita to soak up the broth.
• Pair with a Greek salad for a balanced and vibrant meal.
• Ideal for lunch or light dinner, especially during cold or flu season.

🌿 Optional Variations

• Vegetarian Avgolemono: Use vegetable broth and add chickpeas or white beans instead of chicken.
• Low-carb version: Substitute orzo with cauliflower rice.
• Creamier consistency: Add an extra egg yolk to the avgolemono mixture.
• Boosted nutrition: Add finely chopped spinach or kale in the final minutes of cooking.

✨ Final Thoughts

With its velvety texture and bright lemon flavor, avgolemono soup proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy. It’s a beloved staple of Greek cuisine and a go-to for soothing the body and soul. Whether you’re battling a cold or just need a nourishing meal, this Greek healing soup offers warmth, wellness, and timeless flavor.

Once you try it, you’ll understand why so many people say: “I didn’t know soup could taste this good.”