Noodle soup

Chicken noodle soup is a comforting dish, perfect for chilly days or when you need a boost of energy and vitamins. This soup is not just a simple meal, but a true hug in a bowl, full of delicious flavors and textures. Besides being easy to prepare, this recipe will remind you of warm family meals, bringing you comfort and nostalgia.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

*For the soup:*
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 400 g)
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 medium parsnip
- 1 small celery stalk
- 1 large onion
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 3 tablespoons of oil
- 2 small zucchinis
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley (for garnish)

*For the noodles:*
- 1 egg
- Flour (approximately 200 g, adjust according to the dough consistency)
- A pinch of salt

The Story of Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup is a traditional dish in many cultures, often associated with comfort food. It is believed that chicken soup has healing properties, serving as a remedy for colds and fatigue. Homemade noodles add an extra element of freshness and authenticity, turning this soup into a memorable meal.

Preparing the Soups

1. Boil the Chicken Breast
Start by cutting the chicken breast into small cubes. Place it in a large pot with cold water and add salt. It is important to use cold water to allow the flavors to develop gradually as the meat cooks. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.

2. Wash and Prepare the Vegetables
While the chicken breast is boiling, wash the vegetables. Cut the celery, onion, and parsnip into small cubes. Grate the zucchinis and carrot. These vegetables will not only add flavor but also a lot of necessary nutrients for a balanced diet.

3. Sauté the Vegetables
In a pan, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot and let them sauté for 3 minutes, stirring constantly. This process will intensify the flavors of the vegetables. Then, add the celery and parsnip, letting them sauté for another 2 minutes.

4. Combine the Ingredients
Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the chicken breast. Let it boil for 20-25 minutes, until the meat is well cooked and the vegetables are tender. Finally, add the grated zucchinis 15 minutes before turning off the heat. They will add a fresh and light note to the soup.

5. Strain the Soup
Once everything is cooked, remove the soup from the heat and strain it to obtain a clear liquid. This step is essential for achieving a clear and appetizing soup. After straining, pour the soup back into the pot, adjust the taste with salt and pepper, then turn off the heat.

Preparing Homemade Noodles

1. Prepare the Dough
In a bowl, combine the flour with the egg and a pinch of salt. Mix the ingredients until you obtain a smooth dough. It is important to adjust the amount of flour according to the humidity of the dough. If it is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

2. Knead the Dough
Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. This step is crucial for obtaining fluffy and delicious noodles. After kneading, let the dough rest for 10 minutes. This will help the gluten develop, making it easier to roll out.

3. Roll Out the Dough
Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough into a thin sheet. The thinner it is, the finer the noodles will be. Once you have the desired sheet, cut the noodles into strips of the desired size.

4. Dry the Noodles
Let the noodles dry slightly on a board for a few minutes. This will help prevent them from sticking together during boiling.

5. Boil the Noodles
Boil the noodles in salted water for 2-3 minutes until they rise to the surface. After boiling, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is important to maintain the perfect texture of the noodles.

Serving Chicken Noodle Soup

To serve the chicken noodle soup, pour the hot soup into a bowl and add the homemade noodles. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top to add a touch of color and freshness. This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of fresh, crusty bread that can enhance the tasting experience.

Practical Tips and Variations

- You can also add other vegetables to the soup, such as bell peppers or peas, to vary the recipe and enhance its flavor.
- Instead of chicken breast, you can use chicken thighs for a more intense flavor.
- If you want a spicier soup, add a few slices of chili pepper.
- Chicken noodle soup pairs perfectly with a cold lemonade or herbal tea, providing a pleasant contrast to the flavors of the soup.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey will add a distinct flavor, and the soup will be just as delicious.

2. How can I make the noodles less elastic?
Make sure not to use too much flour when preparing the dough and knead enough to activate the gluten.

3. Can chicken soup be frozen?
Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended not to add the noodles before freezing. They may become mushy after thawing.

With this recipe for homemade chicken noodle soup, not only will you create a delicious dish, but you will also enjoy the cooking process, bringing joy to every bite. Savor every moment spent in the kitchen and treat yourself to a soup that will warm your heart!

 Ingredients: for soup: 1 chicken breast, 1 grated carrot, 1 parsnip, 1 small celery, 1 onion, salt and pepper to taste, 3 tablespoons of oil, 1 bunch of fresh parsley, 2 grated zucchini. For noodles: 1 egg, flour as needed, a pinch of salt.