Cabbage soup

Noodle Soup – A Warm Embrace in Every Spoonful

When the weather turns gloomy or you feel a slight illness creeping in, nothing is more comforting than a warm, flavorful soup. Noodle soup is a traditional dish that is simple and quick to make, sure to warm your soul and help you recover. This soup, with its rich taste and pleasant texture, can quickly become your favorite due to its ease of preparation and accessible ingredients.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 200 g flour (choose a good quality flour, ideal for achieving a consistent dough)
- 2 eggs (preferably fresh, for better taste)
- 1 large onion (for a delicious base aroma)
- 1 carrot (for a sweet note and vibrant color)
- 3 tablespoons of oil (sunflower or olive oil, according to preference)
- 1 teaspoon of paprika (I recommend sweet paprika for a more balanced taste)
- 1 tablespoon of chopped greens (parsley or lovage, for an extra touch of freshness)
- salt and ground pepper (to taste)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the noodles: Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This step is important to avoid lumps in the dough. Add the eggs and a pinch of salt. Use your hands to knead the dough, which should be quite firm. If it feels too soft, you can add a little more flour.

2. Forming the noodles: Once the dough is ready, take a large grater and, over a clean kitchen towel, grate the dough. This technique will not only give you delicious noodles but also a rustic and authentic look. Let the noodles dry for 2-3 hours on the towel; this step will help maintain their shape when cooked.

3. Preparing the vegetables: While the noodles are drying, peel and dice the onion. Peel, wash, and grate the carrot. These vegetables are the base of the soup and will add a special flavor.

4. Sautéing the vegetables: In a soup pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become slightly translucent and fragrant. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent burning.

5. Adding water and paprika: After the vegetables have sautéed, add the paprika and about 3 liters of water. Bring the soup to a boil. Adding the paprika at this stage will help enhance the flavors.

6. Adding the noodles: When the soup starts to boil, add the noodles. It's time to season with salt and pepper to taste. After adding the noodles, let the soup boil for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

7. Finishing the soup: Once the noodles are cooked, take the soup off the heat and sprinkle the chopped greens on top. This will add a fresh taste and beautify the dish.

8. Serving: Noodle soup is served hot and can be accompanied by a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. It's a true indulgence, perfect for cold days or when you need a warm comfort.

Useful tips:
- For an extra flavor boost, you can add 2-3 chicken bouillon cubes during boiling. This will intensify the soup's taste.
- Variations: You can experiment by adding other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, depending on your preferences. Additionally, the noodles can be replaced with pasta or noodles if you prefer a quicker version.
- If you like stronger flavors, you can add a few bay leaves or a sprig of thyme during boiling.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 250 kcal
- Protein: 10 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 2 g

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, whole wheat flour will add a heartier flavor and more fiber, but the dough may require more water.
- How can I store the soup? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it over low heat, adding a little water if necessary.

This noodle soup is more than just a dish; it is a memory of the days when our grandmothers cooked with love. Each spoonful brings not only taste but also tradition, warmth, and comfort. Try this recipe and enjoy a moment of culinary indulgence that will surely become a favorite in your family!