A traditional Caribbean chicken soup made with bone-in poultry, calabaza squash, and a hint of lime for a restorative and flavorful meal.
3 lbs chicken thighs and drumsticks, skinless
8 cups water
2 bay leaves
1 large yellow onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup tomato sauce
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 large Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed
1 ear corn, cut into rounds
1 cup calabaza squash, cubed
1/2 cup fideo noodles
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro
1. Combine chicken, water, and bay leaves in a large pot and bring to a simmer.
2. Skim off any foam from the surface to ensure a clear broth.
3. Add the diced onion, green pepper, garlic, and tomato sauce.
4. Season with salt, cumin, and oregano.
5. Add the corn and squash; simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until all vegetables are fork-tender.
7. Stir in the fideo noodles and cook for 5 to 7 minutes.
8. Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh lime juice.
9. Remove bones if desired and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Use bone-in chicken for the richest broth flavor.
If you cannot find calabaza, butternut squash is an excellent substitute.
Add the lime juice only at the very end to keep the flavor bright.
Find it online: https://www.flavourrecipe.com/cuban-style-chicken-soup/