Chicken soup ...the real deal

Chicken noodle soup – A heartfelt recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Chicken noodle soup is a traditional dish that reminds us of moments spent with loved ones, family meals filled with joy, and the enticing aromas from our kitchen. This simple and tasty recipe is perfect for cooler days or when we crave a comforting meal. Using a free-range chicken will yield a rich and flavorful soup that brings a smile to the face of everyone who tastes it.

Necessary ingredients:

- One chicken (preferably free-range for an authentic taste)
- 3 medium carrots
- 1 kohlrabi
- 1 parsley root
- 1 small celery
- 1 dried onion
- Salt (to taste)
- Peppercorns (optional)
- Water (enough to cover the meat)
- 150 g noodles (preferably homemade)
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped

A bit of history

Chicken soup is a dish that has been enjoyed for generations, considered an effective remedy for colds and a comforting meal for the soul. Whether served on festive days or as an everyday meal, each housewife has her own version, personalized with seasonal ingredients or homemade noodles.

Preparing chicken noodle soup:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. It is important to remove any impurities. Then, cut the chicken into smaller pieces (if not already cut) so that it cooks evenly.

2. Boiling the meat: Place the meat in a large pot and add cold water until the pieces are well covered. Add a teaspoon of salt and a few peppercorns for extra flavor. Bring the water to a boil over low heat, being careful to skim the soup occasionally to remove impurities. This step is essential for obtaining a clear and tasty soup.

3. Adding the vegetables: While the meat is boiling, peel and chop the vegetables: carrots into rounds, kohlrabi and parsley root into small cubes, and you can cut the celery into large pieces. Add the vegetables to the pot with the soup and let them boil together with the meat for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are well cooked.

4. Straining the soup: Once the meat and vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and strain the soup through a cheesecloth or fine sieve to remove all impurities and vegetable pieces. You can keep the vegetables to add to the soup or serve them separately, depending on your preference.

5. Boiling the noodles: In another pot, bring water to a boil and add the noodles along with a teaspoon of salt. Boil them according to the package instructions, usually around 5-7 minutes. After boiling, drain them and rinse quickly with cold water to stop the cooking process.

6. Finishing the soup: Add the noodles to the strained soup and let them infuse in the flavors of the soup for 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top before serving.

Serving suggestion

Chicken noodle soup is served hot, in deep bowls, and can be accompanied by a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. A bottle of white wine or a fruit compote can perfectly complement the meal, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Practical tips:

- For a richer soup, you can also add a piece of beef or lamb bone.
- If you want to enhance the flavor, add a few bay leaves or a bunch of dill during boiling.
- Noodles can be replaced with rice or other types of pasta, depending on your preference.
- If you have leftover soup, you can keep it in the fridge for 2-3 days or freeze it for days when you don't have time to cook.

Nutritional benefits:

Chicken soup is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, having beneficial effects on the immune system. Chicken meat contains essential amino acids, while vegetables add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet. It is also an excellent choice for a light and healthy meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. How can I keep the soup fresh longer?
- The soup can be stored in the fridge in airtight containers for 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.

2. Can I use store-bought chicken?
- Of course! Store-bought chicken is a convenient choice, but the flavor of the soup will be more intense if you use a free-range chicken.

3. What vegetable options can I add?
- You can experiment with vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli, depending on your preferences and the season.

In conclusion, chicken noodle soup is a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for bringing comfort and warmth on cold days. I invite you to try it and personalize it to your taste, turning each serving into a true delicacy. Enjoy your meal!