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Healing Chicken Soup

This comforting chicken soup is made by simmering bones, vegetables, and herbs to create a clear, nourishing broth with tender vegetables and grains or noodles. The slow simmering process unlocks deep flavors and nutrients, resulting in a warm, golden bowl with a fragrant aroma and a soothing texture. It’s a simple, honest dish that feels like a small act of self-care in every spoonful.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 kg chicken bones and skin use leftovers or a whole chicken's parts
  • 2 carrots carrots peeled and diced
  • 2 stalks celery celery diced
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup rice or noodles or grains like quinoa or barley
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • fresh herbs parsley, dill, or thyme, chopped
  • Lemon or to taste lemon juice

Equipment

  • Large stockpot
  • Fine-mesh strainer
  • Chef’s knife
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Method
 

  1. Place the chicken bones and skin into a large stockpot, cover with water, and add a splash of apple cider vinegar. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for about 1 hour, skimming off any foam that forms on the surface.
  2. Remove the bones and strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer into a clean pot. This clear, fragrant broth will be the base of your soup.
  3. Chop carrots, celery, and onion into small, even pieces to ensure uniform cooking and appealing presentation.
  4. In a separate pan, heat a little oil and sauté the chopped vegetables until they’re soft and fragrant, about 8 minutes. You’ll notice a gentle sizzle and the vegetables turning slightly translucent.
  5. Add the sautéed vegetables to the strained broth. Stir in rice, noodles, or grains, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  6. Cook the soup until the vegetables and grains are tender, about 15 minutes, filling your kitchen with a warm, savory aroma.
  7. Stir in freshly chopped herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting for flavor balance.
  8. Let the soup rest off the heat for a few minutes to meld flavors and settle. The broth should be clear and golden, with vegetables and grains tender yet intact.
  9. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with extra herbs if desired, and serve with crusty bread for a complete comforting meal.

Notes

For a richer flavor, simmer the broth longer or add a few sprigs of fresh herbs during the cooking process. Skim foam regularly to keep the broth clear and beautiful.