Homemade chicken noodle soup

Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Boiling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 6

Chicken noodle soup is a traditional recipe, full of flavor and warmth, that combines the natural aromas of fresh ingredients with family memories. This soup is not only nourishing but also comforting, perfect for chilly days or when we crave a touch of warmth in our hearts. Today's recipe is special because the chicken used is raised naturally, giving it a unique taste. Let's discover together the steps to create an unforgettable chicken soup!

Ingredients

- 1 chicken (back, wings, thighs) of about 1.5 kg, raised naturally
- ½ celery root
- 5 carrots
- 3 parsley roots
- 2 parsnips
- 1 onion
- Salt, to taste
- 10 peppercorns
- Fresh (or frozen) celery and parsley leaves
- Homemade noodles (optional)

Necessary utensils

- A large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Strainer or sieve
- Knife and cutting board

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water, removing any impurities. Cut it into smaller pieces to facilitate cooking. Wash and peel the vegetables: carrots, celery, parsley, and parsnips, cutting them into large pieces. The onion can be left whole for easy removal later.

2. Boiling the chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large pot, add cold water (about 3 liters), and 10 peppercorns. Add salt to taste. Place the pot over medium heat, and when the water starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and begin skimming the soup. Skimming is essential for achieving a clear soup, so don't skip this step.

3. Adding the vegetables: After you finish skimming, add the chopped vegetables to the pot. They will add extra flavor and nutrients to your soup. Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 40-50 minutes, until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.

4. Straining the soup: Once the meat is cooked, remove the chicken pieces and vegetables using a strainer or sieve. You can keep the vegetables if you like, or discard them for a clearer soup.

5. Adding the noodles: In the same (hot) soup, add the homemade noodles. They cook quickly and will absorb the delicious flavors of the soup. The noodles are ready in about 15-20 minutes, so stay close to the pot.

6. Finalizing the soup: When the noodles are ready, remove the pot from the heat and add the chopped celery and parsley leaves. These will give a fresh and vibrant taste to your soup. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary.

Serving

Serve the soup hot in a deep bowl, with a slice of fresh bread on the side. A delicious variation is to add some semolina dumplings for an extra touch of flavor. Chicken soup pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a cold lemonade, which will perfectly complement the warm flavors of the soup.

Practical tips

- Noodle tip: If you don't have time or don't want to make homemade noodles, you can use store-bought noodles, but make sure to add them 5-10 minutes before stopping the heat to avoid them getting too soft.
- Naturally raised chicken: Home-raised chicken has a more intense flavor than store-bought, so if you have the opportunity, opt for one raised naturally.
- Using leftovers: If you have leftover meat, you can add it to the soup after straining it for a heartier meal.

Nutritional information

This soup is an excellent choice for a healthy diet, rich in proteins and vitamins. Chicken is a good source of lean protein, and the vegetables provide a considerable amount of fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals. On average, a serving of chicken noodle soup contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of meat and vegetables used.

Variations

- Soup with semolina dumplings: A popular variation is adding semolina dumplings, which transforms the soup into a heartier and more comforting meal.
- Soup with other vegetables: You can experiment by adding other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to give your soup a different taste.
- Adding spices: If you like a more exotic flavor, you can add some spices like turmeric or ginger, which bring both flavor and health benefits.

Frequently asked questions

1. Why is it important to skim the soup?
Skimming helps remove impurities and coagulated proteins, resulting in a clearer and more appealing soup.

2. Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, the soup can be frozen for later consumption. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in freezing containers.

3. How can I customize the soup?
You can add ingredients like corn, peas, or even a splash of soy sauce for a different flavor. Be creative and adapt the recipe to your preferences!

Conclusion

Chicken noodle soup is a recipe that combines tradition with comfort, bringing familiar flavors to every bowl. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this soup is sure to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. We wish you a good appetite and success in making this delicious soup!