We all suddenly have oodles of time on our hands, plus a lot more concern about our health. Voila! If you’re a person who relieves stress by doing, this recipe is for you – even if you’re not the greatest cook in the world. More importantly, Mom’s Chicken Soup is nourishing AND provides immune support – comfort food that’s great for you.
In times of illness (cold/flu/other virus), this is the recipe I turn to, courtesy of my mom. Note: it freezes well, and there are infinite variations you can try. I like ginger and turmeric for even more of an anti-inflammatory boost, but let your taste buds guide you. This may take a little time and a few steps, but it is seriously, seriously easy to make:
Mom’s Chicken Soup
Ingredients
1 small organic chicken
2.5 quarts purified water (or more)
1 large onion
4 whole carrots (or parsnips)
7 stalks celery
fresh dill
Directions
1. Bring water, chicken (gizzards removed) and a large onion, quartered, to boil in a large pot. Water should just cover chicken, so you may need slightly more or less.
2. After liquid boils, skim off white foam from tip before lowering heat to simmer for 1.5 hours uncovered.
3. Add carrots and celery stalks to liquid, cover pot, and simmer for another hour.
4. Remove chicken from pot to cut up into bite-sized pieces.
5. Remove onion and veggies from pot, puree them, and return to pot with chicken pieces.
6. Add fresh dill (and/or parsley if you like) and 1.5 tsp sea salt (or to taste).
7. Simmer for 10 minutes.
8. Enjoy!
Elements that are particularly beneficial for immune support include: bone broth (a hot topic these days), onion, which contains anti-inflammatory quercetin, and carrots and celery containing both fiber and immune supportive vitamin A. So, why not make something good for your health and your immune defenses?
Let me know how this recipe works for you in the comments, and stay well and safe, everyone.