Chicken noodle soup

Chicken noodle soup – a recipe that combines tradition with the delicious flavors of fresh ingredients. This soup is more than just a simple dish; it is a warm embrace, a pleasant childhood memory, and a comfort that few other dishes can offer. Let’s discover together how to prepare this flavorful chicken soup, full of healthy vegetables and delicious noodles, step by step.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients
- 500 g chicken (preferably wings, back, and part of the breast)
- 3 medium carrots
- 1 parsnip
- 1 piece of celery (about 100 g)
- 1 green onion (optional, if in season)
- 1 green pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 200 g homemade noodles
- 1 bunch of green celery
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley

A Brief History
Chicken soup has deep roots in culinary traditions around the world. Whether it’s a cold day or a feeling of illness, chicken soup has become a classic remedy, appreciated not only for its comforting taste but also for its nutritional properties. Homemade noodles add an extra layer of flavor and an unmistakable texture, transforming this soup into a delicacy.

Preparing Chicken Noodle Soup

1. Preparing the chicken
Start by boiling the chicken. Place the chicken in a separate pot with water and let it boil for 10-15 minutes. This step helps to remove impurities and results in a clearer soup. After boiling, discard the water and set the chicken aside.

2. Boiling the vegetables
In a large 4-liter pot, bring water to a boil. Clean and wash the vegetables. Cut the carrots, parsnip, celery, green onion, and green pepper into suitable pieces. Once the water reaches boiling point, add the chopped vegetables and chicken pieces. Cover the pot with a slightly tilted lid to allow steam to escape, helping to retain the flavors in the soup.

3. Seasoning the soup
Add salt and pepper to taste. These spices not only enhance the flavors but also help balance the taste of the soup. Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, until the meat and vegetables are cooked.

4. Adding the noodles
After the meat and vegetables are cooked, add the homemade noodles and finely chopped green celery. The noodles will cook quickly, so let the soup simmer for another 4-5 minutes.

5. Finishing the soup
Once the noodles are ready, turn off the heat and add the freshly chopped parsley. This will add a touch of freshness and a delicious taste.

6. Serving
Serve the soup hot in deep bowls, possibly alongside a slice of fresh bread. A personal suggestion would be to add a few drops of lemon for a more vibrant taste and a fresh aroma.

Useful Tips
- Choosing the chicken: If you have access to free-range chicken, it will add more flavor to your soup. Free-range chicken is usually juicier and more flavorful than store-bought.

- Vegetables: You can vary the vegetables according to the season. Adding zucchini or green beans can provide extra texture and nutrition.

- Homemade noodles: If you don’t have time to make homemade noodles, you can substitute them with store-bought noodles, but make sure to choose a quality option that won’t fall apart in the soup.

Nutritional Information
This chicken noodle soup is rich in protein and vitamins, thanks to the fresh vegetables and chicken. It is an excellent choice for a healthy meal, with approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil or salt added.

Possible Variations
- Add spices like turmeric or ginger for an exotic note.
- Replace the noodles with rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option.
- You can transform the soup into a main dish by adding more vegetables and an extra portion of meat.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. What can I use instead of homemade noodles?
You can use store-bought noodles, but also rice or Italian pasta, depending on your preferences.

2. Can I freeze chicken soup?
Yes, chicken soup can be frozen, but it is recommended to add the noodles only before serving to prevent them from becoming too soft.

3. How can I enhance the flavor of the soup?
You can add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking for a more complex taste.

Chicken noodle soup is more than just a simple recipe; it is a culinary experience that brings comfort and joy to our tables. Whether you prepare it for a quiet evening at home or to gather family around the table, this soup will always be a guaranteed success. And remember, every bite is an invitation to enjoy the simple yet precious moments of life. Enjoy your meal!