Homemade chicken noodle soup

Chicken noodle soup – a warm hug in every bowl

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 6 servings

Chicken noodle soup is a classic dish, full of flavor and warmth, reminding us of moments spent with loved ones. Ideal for chilly days or when facing a cold, this recipe combines simple yet nutrient-rich ingredients, providing comfort and joy.

Ingredients:
- 500-700 g chicken parts (thighs and wings are ideal)
- 2-3 onions
- 500 g root vegetables (parsley, celery, carrot)
- 2 potatoes (optional, for added consistency)
- 2 eggs
- Flour (about 300 g, as needed)
- Salt (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for serving)
- Pepper (optional, for serving)
- Water (about 3 liters)

A bit of history
Chicken noodle soup is a traditional dish found in many cultures around the world. Each family has its own recipe, adapted to local tastes and ingredients. This soup is not just a simple meal but a true symbol of care and affection, often served on special occasions or during cold seasons. Over time, chicken soup has been recognized for its beneficial properties on health, considered a natural remedy to soothe discomfort.

Preparation steps

1. Cleaning and preparing the meat: Start by washing the chicken parts well. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and let simmer for 5-10 minutes. This step helps remove impurities. Discard the water and rinse the meat with cold water.

2. Boiling the meat: Add the meat back into the pot, add 3 liters of fresh water, and bring to a boil. Add the whole onion (peeled) and the halved root vegetables. This adds a rich flavor to the soup.

3. Skimming: As the soup boils, foam will form on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove the foam, repeating this process several times until the soup is clear.

4. Preparing the noodles: In a bowl, beat the two eggs with a pinch of salt and a tablespoon of cold water. Gradually add the flour, mixing constantly until you obtain a firm dough. Roll the dough on a floured surface until you get a thin sheet. Let the sheet rest for 30 minutes, then roll it tightly and cut the noodles into strips of desired size. It’s important they are neither too thin nor too wide, for even cooking.

5. Boiling the noodles: In a separate pot, boil salted water. When the water is boiling, add the noodles and cook until al dente (about 2-3 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking.

6. Finalizing the soup: Once the meat and vegetables are cooked, remove the onion and root vegetables if you prefer a clearer soup. Add the noodles to the soup and let everything simmer together for a few minutes.

7. Serving: Turn off the heat and chop the fresh parsley. Add it to the soup, along with pepper to taste. If desired, you can serve the meat and vegetables separately, but I recommend leaving them in the soup for a rich flavor.

Practical tips
- Choose the meat carefully: Chicken parts are ideal, but you can also use thighs or wings. Ensure they are of good quality for a flavorful soup.
- Root vegetables: These add sweetness and a special aroma. You can experiment with different combinations, such as adding carrots or parsnips.
- Noodles: Homemade noodles are a real treat, but if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought dried noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions.
- Variations: You can add various herbs, such as thyme or bay leaves, for extra flavor. You can also experiment with vegetables, adding zucchini or beetroot.

Nutritional benefits
This chicken soup is rich in protein and vitamins, making it an excellent choice to support the immune system. Root vegetables provide fiber and antioxidants, while parsley adds a boost of vitamin C. It’s a hearty and nourishing dish, perfect for the whole family.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, turkey is a healthy and tasty alternative.
- Can the soup be frozen? Yes, the soup freezes very well. Make sure to store it in airtight containers.
- How can I make the soup spicier? You can add a bit of red pepper or chili flakes, depending on your preferences.

Serving and accompaniments
Chicken noodle soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. Additionally, a glass of freshly squeezed lemonade or herbal tea will perfectly complement the meal.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! This chicken noodle soup is more than just a simple recipe; it’s a way to bring warmth and comfort into your life and that of your loved ones. Enjoy!