Chicken noodle soup

Chicken noodle soup - a classic, comforting dish, perfect for any occasion. This simple yet flavorful recipe will warm your soul and bring you closer to the pleasant memories of childhood.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Servings: 4-6

The history of chicken soup spans many generations, being a traditional dish in many cultures. It is known for its nutritional benefits, helping to strengthen the immune system and providing comfort on chilly days. It is said that chicken soup is the ideal 'medicine' for colds, due to its simple and healthy ingredients.

Ingredients:

- 1 kg chicken (preferably thighs or breast)
- 1 whole onion, peeled
- 1 medium potato, whole
- 1 large carrot, sliced
- 1 parsnip (or celery), diced
- 200 g wide noodles (preferably homemade)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Water (enough to cover the ingredients)

Preparation:

1. Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. This step is essential to remove impurities and ensure a clean and healthy soup.

2. Place the chicken in a large pot, add cold water until it is completely covered, and set the pot over medium heat. Cover the pot with a lid and wait for the water to start boiling.

3. Once the water reaches boiling point, it is important to remove the foam that forms on the surface. This will help the soup to be clear and more appetizing.

4. Add a teaspoon of salt and the vegetables (the whole onion, whole potato, sliced carrot, and parsnip). These ingredients will add flavor and taste to your soup.

5. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer, covered, for about 45 minutes. This slow cooking method will allow the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.

6. After 45 minutes, remove the vegetables (onion, potato, and parsnip) from the soup. If you wish, you can mash them and add them back to the soup for extra creaminess.

7. Leave only the carrot slices in the soup, which will add not only taste but also a touch of color.

8. Now it's time to add the noodles. Check the cooking instructions for them, as the time may vary depending on the type of noodles. Generally, wide noodles cook for about 8-10 minutes.

9. Once the noodles are cooked, turn off the heat and taste the soup. Add salt to your liking, and sprinkle the finely chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness and flavor.

10. Serve the soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons.

Practical tips:

- If you want a richer soup, you can add other vegetables such as zucchini or bell pepper, depending on your preferences.
- For a special flavor, you can add a bay leaf or a few peppercorns during cooking.
- Homemade noodles are always an excellent choice. If you have time, try making them yourself! They are made from flour, water, and eggs, and their texture will add extra flavor to the soup.
- A delicious alternative is to replace the chicken with turkey for a lighter version.

Perfect combinations:

This chicken noodle soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a beet salad. You can also accompany it with a glass of white wine, which will enhance the flavors of the ingredients.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before boiling.

2. How can I store the soup for longer?
The soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for later consumption (it is recommended to consume within 3 months).

3. What other noodles can I use?
You can experiment with different types of noodles, such as egg noodles, rice noodles, or even vegetable noodles for a healthier option.

Nutrition:

A serving of chicken noodle soup contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of meat and noodles used. It is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, providing high nutritional value.

In conclusion, chicken noodle soup is a versatile, easy-to-make recipe that is full of flavors that will enrich your meals. Don’t forget to enjoy every step of the cooking process and share this delicacy with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!