Homemade chicken soup with noodles

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup - A Warm Embrace in Every Spoonful

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Homemade chicken noodle soup is more than just a recipe; it is a tradition, a story passed down through generations. This comforting soup is not only nourishing but also a celebration of simple, authentic flavors. It is perfect for chilly days or for moments when you need a warm hug in a bowl.

Basic ingredients:
- 1-1.2 kg of homemade chicken (thighs, wings)
- 60 g noodles (fresh or instant)
- 1 large onion
- 2-3 carrots
- 1 parsley root
- 1 parsnip
- 50 g celery
- 50 g zucchini
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 2 cubes/teaspoons of chicken/vegetable concentrate
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient details:
Choosing homemade chicken is essential. It has a distinct flavor and a firmer texture than store-bought chickens. Carrots and other vegetables add sweetness and a palette of vitamins, while fresh parsley brings a touch of freshness. Sugar is a surprising ingredient but adds a note of flavor balance.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Boil the meat:
In a large pot, add 4 liters of cold water. Add the chicken and a teaspoon of salt and a tablespoon of sugar. Cover the pot with a lid and bring to a boil. Remove the foam that forms on the surface to obtain a clear broth.

2. Add the vegetables:
After boiling for about 40 minutes, add the whole, peeled, and roughly chopped vegetables. The onion, carrots, parsley, parsnip, celery, zucchini, and bell pepper will release their flavors and transform the soup into a true culinary treasure. Let it simmer on low heat, covered, for another 30 minutes.

3. Check the meat:
The chicken should be tender and easily pull away from the bone. If it is not cooked enough, let it boil for a few more minutes.

4. Season:
Once the meat is ready, check the soup's taste. Add salt and pepper to your preference. If you want a more intense flavor, you can add the chicken or vegetable concentrate cubes.

5. Strain the soup:
Using a large strainer, separate the liquid from the vegetables and meat, keeping only the liquid. If desired, you can leave some meat in the soup for added flavor.

6. Add the noodles:
Introduce the noodles into the soup. If using fresh noodles, they only need a few minutes to cook. If they are instant noodles, follow the instructions on the package.

7. Serving:
Carefully pour the soup into bowls. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of color and flavor. Those who wish can also add shredded meat to make the soup even heartier.

Serving suggestions and combinations:
Chicken soup pairs perfectly with a slice of homemade bread, freshly baked. A simple green salad or fresh cabbage salad can also complement the meal. If you want to turn it into a more substantial lunch, add some crunchy croutons or even a splash of sour cream.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is rich in protein from the meat, vitamins, and minerals from the vegetables. It is an excellent choice for boosting the immune system, being particularly beneficial in the cold season. The calories in a serving of chicken soup are around 150-200, depending on the amount of meat and vegetables used, making it a healthy option for a light meal.

Tips and tricks:
To achieve a soup with a deeper flavor, let it simmer longer, even up to 2 hours. The aroma will intensify, and the meat will become extremely tender. If you want a thicker soup, add more noodles or even a few diced potatoes.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken instead of hen? Yes, but the taste will be different. Hen provides a richer flavor.
- How can I store the soup? It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for later consumption.
- What other vegetables can I add? Asparagus, zucchini, or even peas are excellent options.

Making homemade chicken noodle soup is a fulfilling experience that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring you a sense of well-being. So embrace this traditional recipe and treat yourself and your loved ones to delicious moments! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 1.2 kg of home-raised chicken (thighs, wings) 60 g of noodles 1 large onion 2-3 carrots 1 parsley root 1 parsnip 50 g of celery 50 g of zucchini 1 bell pepper 1 bunch of fresh parsley 2 cubes/teaspoons of chicken/vegetable concentrate 1 tablespoon of salt, pepper