Noodle soup

Noodle soup is a dish that evokes pleasant memories, often associated with moments spent with loved ones. This simple and delicious recipe, with a comforting aroma, is perfect for cool days or when we feel the need for a light yet hearty meal. In this recipe, we will explore each step and add some useful tips to achieve an unforgettable noodle soup.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs (preferably with skin for a richer flavor)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 medium onion
- 1 parsnip root
- 1 parsley root
- ½ celery
- 2 tablespoons of oil (olive oil or sunflower oil)
- Salt and peppercorns, to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped

Preparing the noodle soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken thighs well under cold running water. It is important to remove any impurities, and this step will contribute to the clarity of the soup.

2. First boil: Place the thighs in a large pot, add enough water to cover them completely, and bring to a boil. This step helps remove impurities and achieve a clearer soup. Once the water starts boiling, pour it out and rinse the thighs under cold running water.

3. Boiling the thighs: Return the thighs to the pot, adding cold water again, enough to cover them. Place the pot over medium heat and add the chopped vegetables: carrot, onion, parsnip, parsley root, and celery. These vegetables will enrich the soup with delicious flavors.

4. The spices: Add the peppercorns and the bay leaf. These will add a subtle yet complex taste. Start adding salt to taste, but don't overdo it, as you can adjust the salt at the end.

5. Skimming the soup: During boiling, foam may form on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove the foam, ensuring that the soup remains clear and appetizing.

6. Boiling the noodles: In another pot, boil salted water with 2 tablespoons of oil. When the water is boiling, add the noodles and boil according to the package instructions, usually between 5-10 minutes, until al dente. The oil will prevent the noodles from sticking together.

7. Rinsing the noodles: Once the noodles are ready, drain them in a colander and rinse them under cold running water to stop the cooking process and keep them firm.

8. Finalizing the soup: When the thighs are cooked (about 40-50 minutes), remove them from the pot and let them cool slightly. Strain the soup to remove the vegetables and spices. Add the noodles and the chopped parsley back into the soup. Bring to a quick boil to blend the flavors.

9. Serving: You can place the noodles in bowls, then pour the soup over them, or you can mix everything in a pot before serving. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness and flavor.

10. Serving suggestions: You can accompany this soup with a slice of fresh bread or flavored croutons. A bottle of still water or herbal tea would perfectly complete the meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Yes, but thighs bring a richer flavor and are juicier. If using breast, reduce the cooking time.
- What other vegetables can I add? You can experiment with zucchini or bell peppers for a touch of freshness.
- How can the soup be stored? The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to add the noodles just before serving to avoid them becoming soggy.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is rich in protein due to the chicken meat, and the vegetables used provide an important supply of vitamins and minerals. Carrots, for example, are an excellent source of beta-carotene, and parsley is full of antioxidants. Additionally, the soup is low in calories, making it ideal for a light yet nourishing meal.

Customized version:
For a spicier version, you can add a little chili pepper or spices like curry or turmeric. Also, if you want to turn the soup into a main dish, add beans or lentils to increase the fiber and protein content.

Noodle soup is more than just a simple dish; it is a recipe full of stories and memories, perfect for bringing the family to the table. So, prepare your ingredients and enjoy this comforting delicacy! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs; 1 carrot; 1 onion; 1 parsnip root; 1 parsley root; 1/2 celery; 2 tablespoons of oil; salt, peppercorns, bay leaf, fresh parsley.