Essenhaus Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe Revealed

Embrace the Tradition with a Homemade Touch

There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of chicken noodle soup. At Essenhaus in Middlebury, Indiana, this comfort food is not just a dish, but a cherished tradition that brings warmth and community spirit to every table. Today, we’re diving into the world of Essenhaus by revealing the secret recipe of their iconic Chicken Noodle Soup.

Why Essenhaus Chicken Noodle Soup Stands Out

What makes Essenhaus Chicken Noodle Soup so special? It’s not just the ingredients but the method, care, and tradition that go into crafting this beloved dish. Here are a few reasons why this soup is legendary:

• Simplicity and Authenticity: Essenhaus uses the freshest ingredients, emphasizing quality over quantity.
• Homestyle Noodles: The noodles are hand-rolled and cut, adding a unique texture that you just can’t replicate with store-bought options.
• Hearty Broth: The broth is simmered for hours, allowing the flavors to develop into a deep, comforting essence.

Ingredients for the Iconic Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to recreate Essenhaus Chicken Noodle Soup at home:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into parts (or use chicken pieces of your choice)
• 8 cups water (or chicken broth for richer flavor)
• 4-5 carrots, sliced
• 3-4 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Homemade or high-quality egg noodles (recipe below)
• ¹⁄₄ cup of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Homemade Noodles Recipe

To make your own Essenhaus-style egg noodles, you’ll need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 egg yolks
• 1 whole egg
• ¹⁄₂ tsp salt
• 3-4 tbsp water

🍲 Note: For authentic taste, roll the dough as thin as possible before cutting into ¹⁄₄-inch-wide strips.

Step-by-Step Guide to Essenhaus Chicken Noodle Soup

Let’s now walk through the process:

Step 1: Prep the Broth

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until translucent.
2. Add chicken pieces, browning them slightly.
3. Add water or chicken broth, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 hours, skimming foam occasionally.

Step 2: Prepare the Noodles

1. While the broth is simmering, combine flour and salt in a large bowl.
2. Make a well in the center, add egg yolks, whole egg, and start mixing, slowly incorporating water until a firm dough forms.
3. Knead until smooth, roll out thin, and cut into noodles. Let them rest.

Step 3: Assemble the Soup

1. Remove chicken from the pot, let it cool, then shred or cut into bite-sized pieces.
2. Strain the broth for clarity.
3. Return the broth to the pot, add carrots, celery, and cook until tender.
4. Add chicken back to the pot.
5. Just before serving, drop in the fresh noodles and cook until al dente.

Step 4: Serving the Soup

Finish your soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and perhaps some additional pepper or seasoning to taste.

Notes on Cooking

🌟 Note: The longer you let the broth simmer, the more flavorful your soup will be. Aim for at least 2-3 hours for the best results.

In summary, Essenhaus Chicken Noodle Soup is more than just a meal; it's an experience that encapsulates the warmth of home cooking with a touch of tradition. From the rich broth to the homemade noodles, every element of this soup is designed to comfort and satisfy. Whether you're cooking for yourself on a chilly evening or for a gathering of friends and family, this soup recipe can transform any kitchen into a sanctuary of warmth and flavor.

Can I use store-bought noodles instead of homemade?

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Yes, you can use store-bought egg noodles, but for an authentic Essenhaus experience, homemade noodles provide the best texture and taste.

How can I make the soup if I don’t have 2-3 hours for simmering?

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If time is limited, you can use a pressure cooker or an Instant Pot to speed up the broth-making process. It will not have the same depth of flavor, but it will still be delicious.

What’s the best way to store and reheat chicken noodle soup?

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Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if it has thickened in the fridge.