Classic Chicken Consommé

Instructions

1. Step 1

   In a large stock or saucepan large enough to hold the carcass and all the vegetables, place the carcass, onion, carrot, celery, garlic, tarragon, parsley, and bay leaf.

2. Step 2

   Cover with cold water and bring to a gentle, rolling boil.

3. Step 3

   Simmer at a gentle boil for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. If the water starts to boil away, add more because the ingredients must be covered in water.

4. Step 4

   Taste the stock after the allotted cooking time. It should have a good flavor of chicken and a background hint of the vegetables and herbs. If not, cook a while longer.

5. Step 5

   Strain the stock through a large colander, discarding the solids.

6. Step 6

   Return the liquid to the pan. Bring back to a boil and reduce by approximately a quarter.

7. Step 7

   Allow the liquid to cool down, then refrigerate for 1 hour.

8. Step 8

   Skim any fat from the surface. 

9. Step 9

   Then add the egg whites and whisk thoroughly.

10. Step 10

    Bring the liquid to a boil, whisking all the time. If you want a darker consommé, then add the optional Kitchen Bouquet.

11. Step 11

    Simmer gently, without stirring, for 15 minutes until the egg whites form a crust on the surface, called a "raft."

12. Step 12

    Line a sieve with a piece of clean, unused muslin or a tea towel that has been washed in plain water (see tip below). Gently ladle the crust into the sieve and then slowly ladle the liquid over the crust, allowing time for the liquid to pass through the crust and sieve before adding any more. Do not push the stock through, or it will make the consommé cloudy.

13. Step 13

    Return the clear liquid to the pan and reheat to hot but not boiling. Season with salt and pepper, as desired. This soup is best served warm to hot (not boiling) as it intensifies the flavor. Cold consommés are not as tasty.