Avgolemono Soup: Greek Healing Soup
Avgolemono Soup: Greek Healing Soup is a soothing traditional Greek soup that combines bright fresh lemon juice, creamy eggs, and savory chicken broth. This comforting and versatile recipe is perfect for lifting spirits, aiding digestion, and providing a nourishing meal suitable for any season with customizable options to add grains, vegetables, or create vegetarian versions.
- Author: Kathy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
- 2 large eggs
- Juice of 1–2 fresh lemons (about 1/4 cup)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Additions
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (optional)
- 1/2 cup cooked rice, orzo, or quinoa (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach, kale, or carrots (optional)
- Fresh dill, parsley, or thyme for garnish (optional)
- A pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for spice (optional)
- Prepare the Broth: Warm the chicken broth over medium heat in a pot. If using cooked chicken, shred it and set aside for later addition.
- Whisk the Eggs and Lemon: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and freshly squeezed lemon juice until the mixture becomes frothy and slightly thickened.
- Temper the Egg Mixture: Slowly ladle some hot broth into the egg-lemon mixture while whisking constantly to gradually raise the temperature and prevent curdling.
- Combine Everything: Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the pot with the remaining broth, stirring gently but continuously until the soup thickens and becomes creamy.
- Add Optional Ingredients: Stir in cooked chicken, rice, or preferred vegetables, warming everything through without boiling.
- Season and Serve: Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Serve the soup warm with a wedge of lemon or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Use fresh lemons for the brightest flavor over bottled lemon juice.
- Temper the eggs slowly to avoid scrambling and ensure a silky texture.
- Keep the soup on low heat after adding the egg mixture to prevent curdling.
- Homemade chicken broth provides the best depth of flavor and nutrition.
- Add rice or orzo just before serving to maintain ideal texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Avgolemono, Greek soup, lemon and egg soup, comforting soup, chicken soup, healing soup, gluten free, traditional Greek recipe, easy soup recipe