This old world recipe uses the whole chicken - nothing goes to waste - so you'll get a full dose of proteins, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals to combat the flu/cold season.
You can easily double the recipe to share with neighbors and friends, and it keeps well in the freezer for later use. Enjoy as is, or add some cooked noodles (such as gluten free egg noodles) or rice for a hardier soup.
Home Made Chicken Noodle Soup
*important note: when storing chicken soup keep in mind that it keeps about 3 days refrigerated and 3-6 months frozen
Place the following in a large dutch oven or soup pot:
One whole chicken (organic, free range if available) - rinse before placing in the pot
2 cups carrot chopped into coin-sized pieces
1 cup finely chopped celery
3 - 4 cloves garlic mashed, or squeezed in a garlic press
1 medium onion finely chopped
Enough water to cover the chicken by 1-2 inches
Season to taste: sea salt, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, oregano, basil, bay leaves, parsley and
2 - 3 Tbsp organic chicken stock or chicken bouillon paste such as Better than Bouillon Roasted Chicken
Bring ingredients to a boil for a minute then reduce the heat to simmer for about 2 hours for a 3-4 lb. chicken, or until the meat is tender and starting to slide off the bones.
Remove the whole chicken carefully and allow it to cool. Carefully remove the meat from the bones and add to soup. If preparing for someone who has trouble swallowing or who is weak it's best to strain the soup and share the broth. Often there's enough extra meat to for chicken salad or other dishes.
Tips
Simmer the soup and adjust the seasoning to the richness you prefer.
Noodles can be made separately and added in for those who would prefer them. I like to use gluten free rice noodles or tagliatelle (slightly wider than fettuccine) - just boil until fork tender and add a dash of olive oil, salt and pepper before adding to the soup bowl.
Add a teaspoon of fresh chopped parsley or dill for color and fresh flavor.
Nutrition Notes
Chicken soup contains vitamins A and C, magnesium, phosphorus, gelatin and antioxidants, which are known to build a strong immune system and fight off viruses.
The amino acid cysteine helps loosen secretions and hot soup helps to clear sinuses and keep you hydrated. Onions, carrots, celery and garlic add to the antimicrobial, anti-viral effect. The latest research from Harvard and many other sources suggest that eating a diet rich in whole, unprocessed, nutrient-dense foods, especially proteins and healthy fats (whole fat yogurt/cheeses, grass-fed meats, coconut) can aid in weight loss, diminish sugar/caffeine craving and inflammation, stabilize mood, and decrease your risk of coronary artery disease and type 2 diabetes.
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