The aroma of a classic chicken noodle soup instantly evokes comfort and warmth, especially on those chilly, under-the-weather days. Earthfare, known for its commitment to natural, organic ingredients, offers a chicken noodle soup that is not only delightful to the senses but also nourishing for the soul. Here, we will walk you through 5 easy steps to craft your version of the iconic Earthfare chicken noodle soup, embracing both health and flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 whole organic chicken, preferably free-range
- 8 cups of filtered water or organic chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons of organic extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 stalks of celery, sliced
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried sage
- 2 cups of organic egg noodles
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 2 bay leaves
Preparation
Before diving into the creation of this soulful dish, let’s prep everything:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy skin.
- Rinse the vegetables under cold water to remove any dirt.
- Keep your herbs and spices ready.
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then brown it on all sides for about 5 minutes total.
- Add the water or broth, onion, garlic, and bay leaves.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1 hour until the chicken is tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Broth
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool slightly.
- Strain the broth into another pot, discarding the bay leaves and any bits from the chicken.
Step 3: Shred and Cook Vegetables
- Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, discarding bones and skin if using a whole chicken.
- Add the carrots and celery to the strained broth.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Incorporate the Noodles
- Add the egg noodles to the pot, along with the shredded chicken.
- Cook until noodles are just al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- If using dried herbs, add them now.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve
- Stir in the fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally with a sprinkle of fresh chives or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil.
🍵 Note: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can remove some of the broth before adding the noodles. This step can also be used to store or freeze the extra broth for future use.
Through this journey, we've not only recreated the essence of Earthfare's chicken noodle soup but also ventured into the world of healthy eating. This simple yet wholesome recipe not only provides comfort but also nourishes with its array of organic ingredients. Each bowl is a testament to the beauty of simple, natural cooking.
Can I use store-bought broth?
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Yes, you can use store-bought organic chicken broth. However, homemade broth offers a richer, more personalized flavor, which is what makes Earthfare’s soup special.
How long can I store the soup?
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In an airtight container, the soup can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months, but be aware that the texture of the noodles might change upon reheating.
What if I can’t find organic ingredients?
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Non-organic ingredients can be substituted, but remember that organic ingredients align with Earthfare’s philosophy of providing pure, unaltered food to its consumers.
Can I make this soup vegan?
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Absolutely! Replace the chicken with plant-based protein like tofu or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Consider adding mushrooms or other hearty vegetables for depth of flavor.
