Contents
Chicken noodle soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that has been a staple in many households for generations. One version that holds a special place in the hearts of many is Grandma’s chicken noodle soup.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Grandma’s classic recipe, provide some helpful tips to make it even better, and offer insights into its calorie information.
Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (approximately 4-5 pounds)
- 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 quarts of water
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces of egg noodles
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the whole chicken in a large stockpot. Fill the pot with enough water to cover the chicken. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30 minutes. Skim off any foam that rises to the top.
- Add Vegetables and Aromatics: After 30 minutes, add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, minced garlic, and the bay leaf to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Continue simmering for another hour or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove and Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is tender and fully cooked, carefully remove it from the pot. Allow it to cool slightly, then shred the meat and discard the bones and skin.
- Cook the Noodles: While the chicken is cooling, cook the egg noodles in a separate pot according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the shredded chicken to the pot of broth and vegetables. Add the cooked noodles and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips for Making Grandma’s Chicken Noodle Soup Even Better
- Homemade Stock: If you have the time, make your own chicken stock by simmering chicken parts (necks, backs, or wings) with vegetables and herbs for a few hours. This will give your soup a rich, homemade flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add extra depth of flavor. Add them to the pot with the vegetables.
- Use Homemade Noodles: If you’re feeling ambitious, you can make your own egg noodles from scratch. It’s a labor of love, but the taste is unparalleled.
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn for extra color and flavor. Grandma’s recipe can be a base for your own creative touches.
- Storage: Chicken noodle soup freezes well, so make a big batch and store it in portion-sized containers for a quick and comforting meal anytime.
Calorie Information
The calorie content of Grandma’s chicken noodle soup can vary depending on factors such as portion size and specific ingredients used. However, here’s an approximate calorie breakdown for a typical serving (about 1 cup or 8 ounces):
- Shredded chicken: Approximately 100-150 calories
- Egg noodles: Approximately 100-150 calories
- Vegetables: Approximately 20-30 calories
- Broth: Approximately 15-20 calories
So, a typical serving of Grandma’s chicken noodle soup might contain around 235-350 calories. Remember that these values can change based on ingredient variations and portion sizes.
Grandma’s chicken noodle soup is a beloved classic that offers warmth and comfort with each spoonful. It’s a recipe that has been passed down through generations, and by following her time-tested method and adding your personal touches, you can create a delicious, heartwarming meal.
Whether you’re looking for a soothing remedy for a cold day or just a nostalgic taste of home, this soup is sure to satisfy both the body and the soul.
