Canja de galinha facts for kids
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| Alternative names | Canja |
|---|---|
| Type | Chicken soup |
| Course | Entrée or supper |
| Main ingredients | chicken, rice or massa pevide |
Canja de galinha (say "CAN-zha jee gah-LEE-nya") is a very popular chicken soup. It comes from Portugal, Cape Verde, and Brazil. The name means "chicken congee," which is a type of rice porridge.
In Portuguese, galinha means "hen," but it's used for chicken in general. This soup is different from many Western chicken soups. The rice in Canja de galinha is cooked much longer. It becomes very soft, but it doesn't break apart like in some Asian congee dishes.
Contents
What is Canja de Galinha?
Canja de galinha is a comforting and light soup. It's often eaten as a starter before a main meal. People also enjoy it as a late supper. It's known for being simple and easy to digest.
How is Canja Made in Portugal?
The main ingredients for Canja de galinha are chicken and often small pasta. Sometimes, rice is used instead of pasta. Common flavors come from carrots, eggs, and olive oil. Herbs like mint and spices such as saffron, clove, and white pepper are also added. People usually serve it with slices of Portuguese broa bread. This is a type of corn bread, perfect for dipping into the soup.
How is Canja Made in Brazil?
In Brazil, Canja de galinha is often made for people who are feeling sick. The recipe uses chicken pieces with more bones. These are lightly fried with a bit of smashed garlic. The rice and vegetables are boiled until very soft. Common vegetables include potatoes and carrots, cut into small cubes. Sometimes, peeled tomatoes are added too. The soup is usually seasoned simply. Salt, cooked garlic and onion, black pepper, parsley, and green onions are typical.
Why Do People Eat Canja?
Canja de galinha is more than just a tasty soup. It's often seen as a healing food.
Canja for Colds and Sickness
Many people in Brazil, Portugal, and Cape Verde eat Canja de galinha when they have a cold. It's widely believed to help you feel better. People also think it helps with tummy troubles and other mild sicknesses. It's like a warm, soothing remedy.
Canja for Special Occasions
In Cape Verde, Canja is sometimes served after a funeral. This might be because it helps to "soothe" or comfort people. It's also a special dish for celebrations. Families might eat Canja on New Year's Eve, birthdays, or other important family events.
See also
In Spanish: Canja para niños
