Chicken soup with letters or noodles

Chicken soup with letters or noodles - a comforting and nostalgic recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Chicken soup with noodles or letters is a classic recipe loved by many generations, evoking pleasant childhood memories. This warm and nourishing soup is often chosen on cold winter days or when we are feeling unwell, having the reputation of being a true 'medicine' for the soul. Additionally, it is a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to individual preferences.

Ingredients:
- 1 whole or portioned chicken
- 3 carrots
- 3 potatoes
- 1 onion
- 1 celery (or a parsnip, as preferred)
- 1-2 garlic cloves (optional, for a more intense flavor)
- 1 package of instant noodles or letters
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 vegetable stock cube (optional)
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped

Necessary tools:
- A large pot
- A sharp knife
- A strainer or skimmer
- A wooden spoon
- A cutting board

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the chicken thoroughly under cold running water. If you choose a whole chicken, make sure to remove any leftover feathers. If you prefer a portioned chicken, cut it into suitable pieces. This will allow for even and quick cooking.

2. Boiling the chicken:
In a large pot, pour about 2 liters of water and add the chicken. Place the pot over medium heat and add a pinch of salt. Let the water simmer slowly, forming a foam on top. It is important to monitor the soup at this stage, as the foam contains impurities that affect the clarity of the soup. Use a strainer or skimmer to remove this foam, resulting in a clearer and nicer soup.

3. Adding the vegetables:
After about 30 minutes of boiling, peel and chop the vegetables. The carrots and celery can be sliced into rounds or julienne, while the onion and garlic can be left whole to be removed later. The potatoes can be diced, but if you prefer a more rustic texture, you can leave them whole. Add the vegetables to the pot and season with pepper and, if desired, 1 vegetable stock cube for added flavor.

4. Cooking the noodles:
Once the vegetables have started to soften (after about 10-15 minutes), add the noodles or letters. They will cook quickly, in about 5-7 minutes, so make sure not to leave them too long, otherwise, they will swell and lose their shape.

5. Finalizing the soup:
When the chicken and vegetables are perfectly cooked, and the noodles are al dente, add the freshly chopped parsley and turn off the heat. If you left the onion and garlic whole, now is the time to remove them from the soup.

6. Serving:
The soup can be served immediately, either with the chicken left in the soup or removed and served separately. You can add a slice of lemon or a bit of chili pepper for an extra flavor boost.

Useful tips:
- If you want a soup with a more intense flavor, you can add a few peppercorns, bay leaves, or even some aromatic spices like turmeric or ginger.
- Replace the noodles with dumplings for a special variation! Making dumplings adds a fluffy texture and a distinctive taste.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and the flavor improves the next day when the flavors have had time to meld.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of chicken soup with vegetables and noodles contains approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the amount of chicken and vegetables used. This soup is rich in healthy proteins, vitamins (A, C, B6), and minerals (iron, potassium), having beneficial effects on the immune system and contributing to hydration.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, it is recommended to thaw the chicken before cooking to ensure even preparation.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
You can add a bit of chili pepper or even chili sauce, depending on your preferences.

3. What can I substitute for instant noodles?
You can use homemade noodles, fresh pasta, or even rice for a gluten-free option.

4. What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with zucchini, peas, or even green beans, depending on the season and your preferences.

Chicken soup with noodles or letters is more than just a meal; it is a warm hug on a cold day, a recipe full of love that brings family and friends together. Enjoy your meal!