Welcome to the vibrant and flavorful world of Aruba, where the beloved Sòpi di Galiña, Aruba's traditional chicken soup, takes center stage. This iconic dish is not just a culinary delight but a reflection of the island’s rich cultural history, blending indigenous ingredients with Dutch, African, and Latin American influences. Sòpi di Galiña is packed with nutrients that provide essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A from vegetables and vitamin B12 from chicken, promoting overall health. The soup is also known for its comforting properties, offering warmth and nourishment to the body. Join us as we delve into this heartwarming dish, discovering its health benefits, its cultural significance, and the deep flavors that make it a staple in Aruban homes.

Ingredients:

- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into pieces

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced

- 2 celery stalks, chopped

- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

- 1 cup yams or sweet potatoes, peeled and diced

- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

- 1 cup green beans, chopped

- 1 cup plantains, sliced

- 1 cup pumpkin, peeled and diced

- 1 cup okra, sliced (optional)

- 2 sprigs fresh thyme

- 2 bay leaves

- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Water or chicken broth

- 2 tablespoons lime or lemon juice

Ingredient Substitutions

- If bananas are not available, use extra sweet potatoes or regular potatoes.

- Replace the fresh thyme with dried thyme (half the amount).

- Replace the potatoes with butternut squash or pumpkin for a similar texture.

- If okra is not available, omit it or use sliced ​​zucchini.

- For gluten-free needs: Make sure all broths and seasonings are gluten-free.

- For low-carb diets: Reduce or replace starchy vegetables like potatoes and sweet potatoes with zucchini or cauliflower.

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken:

1- Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

2- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and lime or lemon juice. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Sauté the Aromatics:

1- In a large soup pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

2- Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sauté until the onions are translucent and aromatic.

Cook the Chicken:

1- Add the marinated chicken pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides.

2- Once browned, add enough water or chicken broth to cover the chicken. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to simmer.

Add Vegetables and Herbs:

1- Add the diced carrots, celery, potatoes, yams, corn, green beans, plantains, pumpkin, and okra (if using) to the pot.

2- Tie the thyme sprigs together with kitchen twine and add them to the pot along with the bay leaves.

3- Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Simmer:

1- Allow the soup to simmer over low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Adjust Seasoning:

1- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or lime/lemon juice to suit your preferences.

Serve:

1- Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaves before serving.

2- Serve the Sòpi di Galiña hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy this delightful taste of Aruba with the rich and comforting flavors of Sòpi di Galiña, a dish that embodies the warmth and hospitality of the island's culinary traditions.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with

- Fresh bread or cornbread.

- A light salad with a citrus-based dressing.

- Fried bananas for a sweet and savory contrast.

- Steamed rice or quinoa for added carbohydrates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of Sòpi di Galiña?

- Sòpi di Galiña reflects the cultural diversity of Aruba, blending influences from Dutch, African, Latin American, and indigenous cuisines. It has evolved over generations, with each culture contributing unique ingredients and techniques, resulting in a flavorful and nourishing dish that’s deeply rooted in Aruban culinary traditions.

Can Sòpi di Galiña be made vegetarian?

- Yes! You can prepare a vegetarian version by replacing chicken with plant-based protein options like tofu, chickpeas, or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and increase the vegetable variety for added nutrients.

Nutritional Values

Nutritional values can vary based on factors such as specific brands, preparation methods, and individual product sizes. Below are approximate values per serving based on common nutritional databases. Keep in mind that these values are estimations and may not be entirely accurate:

1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into pieces:

- Calories: 840-1120

- Protein: 105-140g

- Fat: 42-56g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:

- Rich source of protein for muscle repair and growth.

- Provides essential vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, iron, and zinc.

1 large onion, finely chopped:

- Calories: 60

- Protein: 1g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 14g

- Fiber: 3g

benefits:

- Contains antioxidants that may have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting effects.

• High in vitamins C and B, as well as fiber.

2 cloves of garlic, minced:

- Calories: 10

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 2g

benefits:

- Known for its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

- Contains allicin, a compound with potential heart health benefits.

2 medium carrots, peeled and diced:

- Calories: 50

- Protein: 1g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 12g

- Fiber: 3g

benefits:

- Excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A.

- Provides antioxidants that support eye health.

2 celery stalks, chopped:

- Calories: 20

- Protein: 1g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 4g

- Fiber: 2g

benefits:

- Low in calories and a good source of fiber.

- Contains antioxidants and beneficial enzymes.

2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced:

- Calories: 220

- Protein: 3g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 51g

- Fiber: 7g

benefits:

- High in potassium, important for heart health.

- Good source of vitamin C, B6, and fiber.

1 cup yams or sweet potatoes, peeled and diced:

- Calories: 180

- Protein: 2g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 43g

- Fiber: 6g

benefits:

- Rich in vitamins A and C.

- Contains fiber and antioxidants with potential anti-inflammatory effects.

1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen):

- Calories: 130

- Protein: 3g

- Fat: 1g

- Carbohydrates: 29g

- Fiber: 4g

Corn: benefits

- Provides energy through complex carbohydrates.

- Contains fiber and various vitamins and minerals.

1 cup green beans, chopped:

- Calories: 31

- Protein: 2g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 7g

- Fiber: 3g

Green Beans: benefits

- Low in calories and high in fiber.

- Good source of vitamins A, C, and K.

1 cup plantains, sliced:

- Calories: 179

- Protein: 1g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 48g

- Fiber: 3g

Plantains: benefits

- Good source of complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber.

- Contains vitamins A and C, and minerals like potassium.

1 cup pumpkin, peeled and diced:

- Calories: 30

- Protein: 1g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 8g

- Fiber: 1g

Pumpkin: benefits

- High in fiber, promoting digestive health.

- Rich in vitamins A and C, and antioxidants.

1 cup okra, sliced (optional):

- Calories: 33

- Protein: 2g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 8g

- Fiber: 3g

Okra (optional): benefits

- Low in calories and a good source of dietary fiber.

- Contains vitamins A, C, and K.

2 sprigs fresh thyme:

- Calories: 3

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 1g

benefits:

- Contains antioxidants with potential anti-inflammatory properties.

- May have antimicrobial benefits.

2 bay leaves:

- Calories: 5

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 1g

benefits:

- Contains essential oils with potential anti-inflammatory effects.

- May aid digestion.

1 tablespoon vegetable oil:

- Calories: 120

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 14g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits:

- Provides healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated

fats.

- Source of vitamin E, an antioxidant.

Salt and pepper to taste:

- Negligible

benefits:

- Used in moderation, salt provides essential electrolytes.

- Pepper contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory effects.

Water or chicken broth:

- Negligible (calories can vary based on the type and amount used)

benefits:

- Essential for hydration and overall bodily functions.

2 tablespoons lime or lemon juice:

- Calories: 8

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 3g

benefits:

- Excellent source of vitamin C.

- May aid digestion and provide a burst of flavor.

Nutritional Component Per Serving

- Calories 350–450 kcal

- Protein 25–30 g

- Carbohydrates 40–50 g

- Fat 10–15 g

- Fiber 8–10 g

- Vitamins & Minerals High in vitamins A, C, B12, iron, potassium, and zinc

Remember, these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods. Adjustments may be needed based on your specific dietary needs and preferences.