Homemade chicken soup festival held in Sipoteni
The aroma of homemade chicken soup filled the streets of Sipoteni village in the Călărași district on Sunday, as a festival dedicated to this traditional dish took place. This event, which has become a beloved tradition, attracted dozens of locals, representatives of the diaspora, and enthusiasts of Moldovan cuisine. Chefs from all over the country competed for the title of the best chicken soup.
Valeant Gheorghelaș, one of the festival participants, is an IT specialist who prepared a homemade chicken soup using a recipe he learned from his grandmother.
"When cooking, it's important to use love and patience; don't rush the process. Typically, the meat should be boiled for about one and a half to two hours. After that, you can add the vegetables and greens", he explains.
Ten participants entered the competition for the best chicken soup, each bringing their own recipe and culinary secrets to the pot.
"For the aroma and flavor of the chicken, thyme is added at the end. I have won first place in previous editions, as well as second and third places."
" It's delicious. Everything is natural, like in the countryside."
"Here you go—homemade chicken soup. It's chemical-free."
The lovers of chicken soup lined up at the cauldron, drawn by the delicious aroma of this traditional dish at the festival.
"We decided to come; it's far, but it's beautiful, and the food is very tasty."
"Specifically, it's the Moldovan taste—our tradition and our cooking—that I find enviable as a nation and a people."
"This is my second time at this festival. I’m from Sipoteni and I come with pride, especially since we've been living in Canada for 20 years. We come with great love, along with our friends from Spain. This event brings us together, allowing us to reconnect with former colleagues and teachers."
Prime Minister Vasile Tofan was also present at the festival and did not hesitate to taste the chicken soup prepared by the participants.
"The hot pepper is excellent, the noodles are homemade, the parsley is fresh and flavorful. I encourage everyone to come to Sipoteni for the best chicken soup in the world; it's truly outstanding," said Vasile Tofan.
Later, the prime minister showcased his musical talents by playing the panpipes.
"I am a panpiper!" he exclaimed.
The first edition of the Sipoteni Chicken Soup Festival took place in 2016.
