Almost everyone has his or her own favorite recipe for chicken soup. In fact, there may be as many variations out there as there are people to cook them. However, most people make this old fashioned meal in a similar way. That can be comforting sometimes, but it can also be a little dull. Here are a few ways that you can improve your chicken soup without having to go through a lot of extra effort.
How about trying a few new ingredients, even if you keep your basic recipe the same? Chopped beet leaves, kale, or other greens can make your chicken soup a lot more interesting, as well as adding some extra vitamins that it wouldn’t otherwise have.
How about the variation that involves ground chicken? Simmer a pound of ground chicken in broth instead of your usual chunks of meat. You will find that the chicken adds heartiness and some extra flavor that would not otherwise be present. Then add some noodles and any vegetables you want, for a great meal that is a little different, and only takes about a half hour.
Herbs and spices can make a real difference, too, and many ordinary chicken soup recipes are short on these seasonings. Try a little bay, parsley, oregano, or other dried or fresh herbs you have on hand to create a whole new flavor in your chicken soup. Want to spice things up? Try red pepper, chili paste, or hot sauce.
Do not forget to look to other cultures, too. Every culture that has the chicken has a variation on chicken soup, and some of them are really interesting. Bok choy, ginger, and bean sprouts can add a little bit of an Asian flavor to your ordinary chicken noodle soup. Try substituting your regular noodles for rice noodles, and if you are feeling really adventurous, add a little spicy kim chee.
Try coconut milk and curry paste to make a Thai inspired chicken soup, and do not forget to add a little ginger and lime. Czech chicken soup includes allspice, whole pepper, and parsley root, while mushrooms and leeks can add a European flavor. Do not be afraid to experiment!
For a heartier chicken noodle stew, include bigger chunks of chicken and vegetables and sturdier noodles. Substitute in whole grain noodles for the ones you usually use if you would like to make your soup heartier and healthier, too. Millet and barley can also be a big help.
Chicken soup is a real classic, but sometimes it can get pretty boring. If you feel like your chicken soup is not what it should be, maybe it is time to start dressing it up. There are all kinds of options out there – you just have to be willing to try them. A few changes might be all it takes to update an old classic and make it great.
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