Homemade chicken noodle soup

Chicken Vegetable Soup - A Hug in a Pot

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Chicken vegetable soup is undoubtedly one of those recipes that connects us to childhood memories, to family Sunday meals, and to the love that is passed through each spoonful. This simple and healthy recipe will not only warm your soul but also provide a nutritious meal, full of vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients:

- 3-4 pieces of chicken (preferably free-range for an authentic taste)
- 2 large carrots
- 1 white onion
- 2 potatoes
- 1/2 celery root
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of red peppercorns
- A handful of fresh parsley
- 4 liters of water

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by cleaning all the vegetables. The carrots, potatoes, and celery should be diced, while the onion is finely chopped. It’s important to wash the vegetables under cold running water to remove any impurities.

2. Boiling the Chicken: In a large pot, add the washed chicken and cover it with cold water. Add a teaspoon of salt. Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil. It’s important to start with cold water to allow for even cooking.

3. Adding the Vegetables: Once the chicken is half-cooked (about 20 minutes), add the diced vegetables. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer on low heat. This step is crucial, as slow boiling helps extract flavors from the meat and vegetables, giving the soup a rich and flavorful consistency.

4. Straining the Soup: When the vegetables are cooked (about 15-20 minutes), strain the soup using a fine sieve. This step will give you a clear soup without particles or impurities.

5. Seasoning: Put the soup back on the heat and add the red peppercorns. Let it boil for 2 minutes. These peppercorns add a subtle hint of spice and complexity to the flavor.

6. Adding the Noodles: Now it’s time to add the noodles. Let them cook in the soup for 5 minutes or according to the package instructions. Fresh or homemade noodles are excellent options that enrich the recipe.

7. Finishing the Soup: Once the noodles are ready, turn off the heat and add the chopped parsley. This will not only add a fresh taste but also a vibrant color. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup rest for a few minutes.

8. Serving: Serve the soup hot, sprinkling a little parsley on top. You can add a slice of lemon for a refreshing taste or even a little olive oil for extra flavor. Don’t forget to serve it with love, as every serving should be filled with affection!

Practical Tips:

- Chicken: Choose free-range chicken, as it has a more intense flavor and better texture. If using store-bought chicken, ensure it is fresh.
- Vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to diversify the flavors. Additionally, if you want to make the soup heartier, you can add green beans.
- Straining the Soup: If you prefer a soup with vegetables, you can leave the vegetables in the soup and serve them. In this case, don’t chop them too finely.
- Variations: You can transform this soup into a more exotic version by adding spices like turmeric or ginger, which will give it a unique flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:

Chicken soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, while vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery are rich in essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe is perfect for boosting the immune system and recovering from a cold or flu.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, turkey will provide a different flavor, but it’s an excellent alternative.
- How can I make the soup spicier? Add chili peppers or spices like chili for an extra kick.
- Is this soup suitable for children? Absolutely! It’s a healthy and comforting recipe, perfect for the whole family.

Delicious Combinations:

This soup pairs wonderfully with fresh bread or crunchy croutons. You can also accompany it with a glass of fresh lemon juice or a warm tea, making it an excellent choice for a family meal.

I hope this recipe inspires you to cook with love and share special moments with your loved ones. It may just become your favorite recipe, as it has become mine!