Cock Soup Recipe

Jamaican Chicken Soup, or Cock Soup, is a traditional dish that is both comforting and satisfying. This vibrant soup is brimming with fresh, local ingredients like pumpkin, scallions, and thyme, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile. It's not just delicious, it's believed to have medicinal properties, making it a popular choice during cold and flu season.
In this recipe, we'll walk you through the steps of making this classic Jamaican soup at home. It's easier than you might think and comes together in under an hour. So grab your favorite vegetables, fire up the stove, and get ready to experience a taste of the Caribbean!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ - 2 lbs Chicken (bone-in thighs and breasts, cut into pieces)
• 10 cups Water
• 1 lb Pumpkin (chopped)
• 2 medium Potatoes (Irish or sweet, chopped)
• 1 Cho-cho (chopped) (optional)
• 2 medium Carrots (chopped)
• 2 Scallions (chopped)
• 6 Sprigs Thyme
• 1 Scotch Bonnet Pepper (seeded and chopped) (adjust to your spice preference)
• 8 Pimento Berries
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• (Optional) 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• (Optional) 1 cup Chicken Noodles
• (Optional) Cock Soup Mix (a pre-made blend of spices found in Caribbean grocery stores)

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat (optional). Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides.
2. Pour in water, pumpkin, potatoes, cho-cho (if using), carrots, scallions, thyme, scotch bonnet pepper, and pimento berries. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
3. Remove chicken pieces and shred the meat. Discard skin and bones. Return shredded chicken to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. (Optional) If using, stir in chicken noodles and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or according to package instructions.
5. (Optional) For extra flavor, add a few tablespoons of Cock Soup Mix according to your preference.
6. Serve hot and enjoy this taste of the Caribbean!