🥣 Avgolemono (Greek: αυγολέμονο)
Literal meaning: "Egg–Lemon"
🧾 What is Avgolemono?
It is a traditional element of Greek cuisine, but similar versions also appear in Sephardic Jewish, Turkish, Arab, and Balkan cuisines.
🥄 Forms of Avgolemono
1. Soup (Soupa Avgolemono)
A hearty and comforting dish, especially common in Greek households.
Common ingredients:
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Chicken broth
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Shredded chicken
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Rice or orzo pasta
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Eggs (whole or yolks)
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Fresh lemon juice
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Salt, pepper
2. Sauce (Avgolemono Saltsa)
Used as a creamy finishing touch for:
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Dolmades (stuffed grape leaves)
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Lahanodolmades (cabbage rolls)
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Braised lamb or chicken
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Fish dishes
🧪 How It Works: Emulsion Magic
The egg yolks act as emulsifiers, while lemon juice brings brightness. To avoid curdling, hot broth is added slowly (tempering) to the egg-lemon mixture before combining it all.
The result is a rich, creamy texture—without cream or dairy—purely from the emulsification process.
🧑🍳 How to Make Avgolemono Soup (Classic Greek Recipe)
Ingredients:
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6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable/fish)
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1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (optional)
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½ cup orzo or rice
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2–3 eggs
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Juice of 2 lemons
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh dill or parsley (optional)
Instructions:
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Boil the broth: In a pot, bring the broth to a boil. Add orzo or rice and cook until tender.
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Prepare avgolemono mix:
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In a bowl, whisk eggs and lemon juice until frothy.
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Temper the mixture:
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Slowly add a ladle of hot broth into the egg-lemon mix while whisking constantly.
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Repeat with 1–2 more ladles until the mix is warmed.
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Combine and thicken:
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Reduce soup to low heat. Gently stir in the tempered avgolemono.
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Stir continuously for 2–3 minutes until the soup thickens slightly.
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Do not boil after adding the egg mixture — it will curdle!
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Add chicken (if using), season, and serve warm.
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Garnish with fresh dill or parsley.
🧂 Avgolemono Sauce (as a topping)
Great for meats, dolmades, and veggies.
Ingredients:
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1 cup warm broth
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2 egg yolks
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Juice of 1 lemon
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Salt and pepper
Steps:
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Whisk egg yolks and lemon juice in a bowl.
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Slowly temper with warm broth.
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Return to pan over low heat, stirring constantly until slightly thickened (do not boil).
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Spoon over your dish and serve immediately.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
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Soupa Avgolemono is commonly served as a starter or light main course, especially in winter or during Easter (with lamb or chicken).
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Avgolemono Sauce is the perfect complement for:
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Dolmades (stuffed grape leaves)
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Braised lamb
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Stuffed cabbage (Lahanodolmades)
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Steamed vegetables
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Grilled fish or seafood
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🌍 Cultural & Historical Notes
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Ancient Origins? There's debate, but versions of avgolemono trace back to Sephardic Jewish cuisine, where a similar sauce called Agristada was used.
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It evolved in the Ottoman Empire, spreading into Balkan and Middle Eastern cuisines.
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In Greek Orthodox fasting seasons, it's often made without meat.
📦 Storage Tips
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Avgolemono does not reheat well, as reheating may curdle the eggs.
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Best to consume fresh.
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If storing, reheat gently on low heat, stirring constantly—do not boil.
🧠 Fun Fact
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The Greek word αυγό (avgo) means egg, and λεμόνι (lemoni) means lemon.
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Avgolemono gives the illusion of creaminess without any dairy — making it a great option for lactose-intolerant or dairy-free diets.
🧾 Nutrition (approx. per 1-cup soup serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | ~180 kcal |
Protein | ~10g |
Carbohydrates | ~15g |
Fat | ~9g |
Vitamin C | High (from lemon) |
Would you like a printable recipe card, video walkthrough, or a version tailored for vegetarians or low-carb diets? I'd be happy to help with that! 🍋🥚
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