Creamy Irish Skink (Chicken Soup)
The Irish word for broth is ‘skink’ – this soup has a creamy broth, chunks of chicken, parsnips potatoes and veg simmered with herbs.
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Ingredients
Units
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- 1 whole chicken (about 3–4 lbs) or 4–6 bone-in chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or drumsticks)
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 parsnip (optional), diced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 small bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 sprig fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 8 cups (2 liters) chicken stock or water
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Stock:
- Place the chicken in a large pot. Add the carrots, celery, onion, and parsnip. Cover with the chicken stock or water.
- Add bay leaves, thyme, and a generous pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 1 hour or until the chicken is tender.
- Remove and Shred the Chicken:
- Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat, discarding the skin and bones.
- Strain and Skim the Broth (Optional):
- Strain the broth to remove any solids, returning the liquid to the pot. Skim off any excess fat for a cleaner soup.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot. Simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
- Prepare the Creamy Base:
- In a separate small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Simmer gently until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine the Cream and Soup:
- Slowly whisk the creamy mixture into the pot of soup. Stir thoroughly to combine, ensuring a smooth, creamy broth.
- Assemble the Soup:
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add half of the chopped parsley. Stir well and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the remaining parsley. Pair with warm soda bread or crusty rolls for the perfect meal.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
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