Changua: Colombian Egg and Milk Breakfast Soup

Changua is a traditional Colombian breakfast soup made with milk, water, eggs, and herbs. Originating from the Andean region, particularly in Bogotá and Boyacá, this comforting dish is often served with bread or arepas, making it a staple in Colombian households.

Known for its creamy texture and mild yet savory flavor, changua is especially popular on cold mornings. The dish is often enjoyed as a hearty start to the day or even as a hangover remedy after a long night of celebration.

This classic breakfast soup is simple to prepare, requiring just a few basic ingredients. The eggs are poached directly in the milk-based broth, resulting in a silky texture that blends beautifully with the rich flavors of green onions, cilantro, and cheese. Many families have their own variations, incorporating ingredients such as potatoes, garlic, or different types of bread.

Whether you are exploring Colombian cuisine or looking for a new breakfast dish, changua offers a unique and satisfying experience. In this guide, you will learn everything you need to prepare authentic changua at home, along with tips to customize it to your taste.

Key Benefits

1. Nutrient-Rich and Energizing

Changua provides a balanced combination of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. The eggs are an excellent source of protein, helping to keep you full and energized throughout the morning. The milk adds essential vitamins like calcium and vitamin D, which support bone health, while the bread offers a dose of carbohydrates for sustained energy.

2. Warm and Comforting

As a hot soup, changua is perfect for cold mornings or when you need a soothing meal. Its creamy texture and mild flavors create a sense of warmth and comfort, making it a go-to dish in Bogotá and other colder regions of Colombia.

3. Easy to Digest

Unlike heavier breakfast options, changua is light yet satisfying. The combination of milk, eggs, and herbs makes it easy on the stomach, which is why it’s often recommended after a night of celebration or when you need a gentle meal to start the day.

4. Quick and Easy to Make

This dish requires minimal ingredients and takes just minutes to prepare. With a simple cooking process that involves boiling milk and water, poaching eggs, and adding herbs, changua is a great choice for busy mornings when you want a homemade meal without much effort.

5. Customizable to Your Taste

Changua is highly adaptable. While the classic version includes green onions, cilantro, and poached eggs, you can personalize it with additional ingredients like cheese, potatoes, or garlic. Some variations use almojábanas (Colombian cheese bread) or toasted bread to enhance texture and flavor.

6. A Taste of Colombian Tradition

This breakfast soup is a cultural staple in Colombia, particularly in the Andean region. Preparing and enjoying changua allows you to experience an authentic taste of Colombian cuisine and connect with a tradition that has been passed down for generations.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk – Provides a rich and creamy base for the soup.
  
• 2 cups water – Helps balance the consistency and lightens the texture.
  
• 2 large eggs – Poached directly in the soup for added protein and flavor.
  
• 2 scallions (green onions), finely chopped – Adds a mild onion flavor and freshness.
  
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped – Enhances the dish with a fragrant, herbal touch.
  
• ½ teaspoon salt – Brings out the flavors of the ingredients.
  
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a slight kick to the dish.
  

For Serving:

• 2 slices of stale bread or toasted bread – Traditional in Colombian cuisine, adding texture and heartiness.
  
• ¼ cup white cheese (optional) – Crumbled over the soup for extra creaminess.
  

Optional Variations:

• 1 small boiled potato, diced – Some variations include potatoes for a heartier version.
  
• 1 garlic clove, minced – Adds depth to the broth for a richer taste.
  
• Almojábanas or arepas on the side – Traditional Colombian breads that complement the dish.

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Milk and Water

1. In a medium pot, combine 2 cups of whole milk and 2 cups of water.
   
2. Add the finely chopped scallions and salt to the pot.
   
3. Place the pot over medium heat and stir occasionally. Allow the mixture to heat until it reaches a gentle simmer—do not let it boil.
   

Step 2: Poach the Eggs

4. Once the milk mixture is simmering, carefully crack each egg directly into the liquid.
   
5. Let the eggs poach undisturbed for about 3-5 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny.
   

Step 3: Season and Serve

6. Stir in freshly chopped cilantro and add black pepper to taste.
   
7. Turn off the heat and let the soup rest for a minute to allow the flavors to blend.
   

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

8. Place a slice of toasted or stale bread at the bottom of each serving bowl.
   
9. Carefully ladle the hot soup over the bread, ensuring each bowl has an egg.
   
10. (Optional) Sprinkle crumbled white cheese on top for extra richness.
    

Step 5: Enjoy!

11. Serve immediately while warm, alongside almojábanas, arepas, or more toasted bread for a complete Colombian breakfast experience.

Pro Tips and Variations

Pro Tips for the Perfect Changua

Use Whole Milk for Creaminess: Traditional changua is made with whole milk, which gives it a rich, creamy texture. Skim or low-fat milk can be used, but the soup may be thinner.

Control the Simmering Temperature: Milk can scorch easily, so keep the heat low to medium and stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pot. Never let the mixture boil.

Perfect Poached Eggs: Crack the eggs gently into the pot one at a time and avoid stirring once they’re added. This keeps the eggs intact and ensures a smooth, velvety texture.

Toasting the Bread Matters: Using toasted bread (or slightly stale bread) prevents it from becoming too soggy in the soup. Traditional Colombian changua often includes calados, a type of hardened bread that absorbs the broth while maintaining some texture.

Let the Flavors Infuse: Once the soup is done cooking, let it rest for a minute before serving. This allows the ingredients, especially the cilantro and scallions, to blend into the broth for a more flavorful dish.

Variations to Try

Herb Boost: While cilantro is the classic choice, you can also use green onions, parsley, or even a bit of thyme for a unique twist.

Cheesy Changua: Some Colombian families add crumbled white cheese (like queso fresco or queso campesino) directly to the bowl for extra richness. Let it melt slightly into the hot broth.

Potato Addition: For a heartier version, add small diced potatoes to the milk-water mixture and let them cook until soft before adding the eggs.

Arepa or Almojábana Pairing: Instead of regular bread, serve your changua with arepas or almojábanas (Colombian cheese bread) for an authentic touch.

A Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few drops of hot sauce for a spicy variation.

Serving Suggestions

Some serving ideas to enhance your experience:

1. Traditional Serving Style

• Serve in a deep bowl to hold the rich, milky broth and perfectly poached eggs.
  
• Garnish generously with fresh cilantro and scallions right before serving to enhance the aroma and flavor.
  
• Add toasted bread pieces (calados) or crusty bread slices on top or on the side for dipping into the soup.
  

2. With Classic Colombian Accompaniments

• Arepas: Serve changua with warm arepas, Colombian corn cakes that complement the creamy texture of the soup.
  
• Almojábanas: These cheesy Colombian bread rolls are a great pairing for soaking up the broth.
  
• Hot Chocolate or Coffee: A cup of Colombian hot chocolate or strong black coffee completes the authentic breakfast experience.
  

3. For a Heartier Meal

• Add cheese: Sprinkle crumbled queso fresco or another mild cheese into the soup for extra richness.
  
• Include potatoes: Serve with a side of boiled or fried potatoes for a more filling breakfast.
  
• Protein boost: Enjoy changua with a side of grilled beef or chorizo, as some regions in Colombia do.
  

4. Modern Twists for Different Preferences

• Vegetarian Option: Changua is naturally vegetarian, but for extra protein, serve it with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas.
  
• Spicy Variation: Add a few drops of hot sauce or sliced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
  
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the bread and serve changua with avocado slices for a creamy contrast.

Conclusion

Changua is a comforting and nourishing breakfast soup that has been a cherished part of Colombian cuisine for generations. With its creamy milk-based broth, perfectly poached eggs, and fresh herbs, this dish offers a simple yet satisfying way to start the day. Its warm and soothing qualities make it especially popular in cold mornings or as a revitalizing meal after a night of celebration.

Beyond its traditional roots in Bogotá and the Andean regions, changua has gained popularity among those looking for a unique, hearty breakfast that is both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you enjoy it the classic way with toasted bread (calados) or customize it with modern twists like cheese, avocado, or a spicy kick, changua is a versatile dish that brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful.

By trying this traditional Colombian breakfast soup, you can experience a taste of authentic Andean gastronomy right in your own kitchen. Its simplicity, rich flavor, and cultural significance make changua a dish worth adding to your breakfast rotation.

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