Avar Chicken Soup

Method

Place the chicken in a large pot with cold water and bring to a boil, skimming off any foam that rises. Add the coarsely chopped onions, carrots, celery, garlic cloves and bay leaves, then simmer for 45 minutes until the chicken is tender. Remove the chicken, allow to cool slightly, then shred the meat, discarding bones and skin. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add diced potatoes, simmering for a further 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender. Season generously with salt and pepper, then finish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving. This traditional Caucasian soup is best served hot with crusty bread.