Introduction
Dive into a bowl of sunshine with this Anti-Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup! It’s bursting with flavor and incredibly good for you, you’ll forget it’s actually healthy. This recipe is perfect for those chilly days when you want something warm and nourishing that also supports your well-being. Let’s get cooking!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 piece (about 2 inches) fresh ginger, grated
- 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 ribs of celery, chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Finishing Touches
- 1 large lemon, juiced
- Handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
Preparation Time
- Prep Time 15 minutes
- Cook Time 30 minutes
- Total Time 45 minutes
- Yield 6 servings
Instructions
1. Heat it up! In a large pot, melt your oil over medium heat. Toss in the onion and sauté until it’s soft and fragrant. Garlic lovers, this is your moment—add garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, and the spice party with red pepper flakes. Stir for a minute until the kitchen smells amazing!
2. Veggie time: Stir in your carrots and celery, coating them in that spice magic for about 3 more minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and let it all simmer—it’ll soon be foodie heaven.
3. Chicken in: Add the chicken breasts, let them take a warm bath in that broth, and simmer for 20 minutes or until cooked. Once done, remove and shred or chop them up. Pop the chicken back into the pot.
4. Finish strong: Stir in the lemon juice and fresh cilantro, then add the leafy greens of your choice. Cook for a few more minutes until wilted and perfect.
5. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and voila! You’ve got a golden bowl of goodness that’s Instagram-ready and oh-so-tasty.
Enjoy every sip of this vibrant, nourishing delight! 🍲💛
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Heat it up!
In a large pot, melt your oil over medium heat. Toss in the onion and sauté until it’s soft and fragrant. Add garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir for a minute until the kitchen smells amazing.
Step 2: Veggie time
Stir in your carrots and celery, coating them in the spice mix for about 3 more minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer.
Step 3: Chicken in
Add the chicken breasts to the pot. Allow them to simmer in the broth for 20 minutes or until cooked. Once done, remove and shred or chop the chicken, then return it to the pot.
Step 4: Finish strong
Stir in the lemon juice and fresh cilantro, then add the spinach or kale. Cook for a few more minutes until the greens are wilted.
Step 5: Season and serve
Season to taste with salt and pepper. Your golden bowl of goodness is ready to be enjoyed!
Notes
Storage
This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze this soup in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Customization
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini based on your preference. Adjust the spices to suit your taste!
Cook techniques
Heating the Oil
Always heat your oil over medium heat to prevent it from burning. Adding the onions first allows for a gentle sautéing that brings out their natural sweetness.
Building Flavor
Sauté the garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, and red pepper flakes briefly to bloom the spices and maximize their aromatic potential, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.
Vegetable Sautéing
When adding carrots and celery, cook them just long enough to coat them with spices and soften slightly, usually around 3 minutes, to retain their crunchiness.
Simmering the Broth
Allow the soup to simmer after adding the chicken broth; a good simmer develops the flavors deeply and helps the vegetables soften.
Cooking the Chicken
Submerge the chicken breasts in the simmering broth for 20 minutes or until fully cooked. This method infuses the meat with flavor while keeping it moist.
Finishing Touches
Add lemon juice and fresh herbs at the end of cooking to maintain their vibrant flavors and brighten the overall taste of the soup.
FAQ
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or can be frozen for later enjoyment.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth or water with added seasoning for a lighter option.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like zucchini, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers based on your preferences.
How spicy is this soup?
The spice level is moderate; you can adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to your taste or omit them for a milder flavor.
Conclusion
Enjoy every sip of this vibrant, nourishing delight!
