Amish Chicken Noodle Soup

Amish Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe - Delicious and Flavorful Soup

Region / culture: Amish | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 3 hours | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Amish Chicken Noodle Soup is a heartwarming, traditional dish that has been passed down through generations in Amish communities. Known for its simplicity, rich flavors, and comforting qualities, this soup is a staple in many households, especially during the colder months. Made with wholesome ingredients like chicken, vegetables, and egg noodles, it's a nutritious and satisfying meal that brings a sense of warmth and comfort to any table.

History

The origins of Amish Chicken Noodle Soup can be traced back to the Amish and Mennonite communities in the United States, where simple, hearty meals were a cornerstone of their diet. This recipe, in particular, has been cherished for its ability to provide sustenance and comfort using readily available ingredients. Over the years, it has been shared and adapted by many, but its core elements remain the same, reflecting the Amish values of simplicity and community.

Ingredients

3 lb (1.36 kg) of chicken
2 qt (1.89 liters) of water
2 tsp of salt
1.5 cups of chicken stock
2 cups of chopped celery
2 cups of chopped carrots
1 tart apple, chopped
1 cup of chopped onions
a dash of pepper
4 cups of egg noodles

How to prepare

Cover the chicken for approximately 2.5 hours.
Remove the chicken from the kettle and strain the broth.
De-bone the chicken and return it to the kettle along with the strained broth.
Add chicken stock, celery, carrots, apple, onions, and pepper.
Cook until the vegetables are tender.
Add noodles and cook for 8 – 10 minutes.

Variations

There are many ways to vary this classic recipe. For a heartier version, add potatoes or swap the egg noodles for rice. For a vegetarian twist, use vegetable broth and add more vegetables in place of chicken. Adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves can also enhance the flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the best flavor, use a whole chicken and make your broth from scratch. This not only enhances the taste but also allows you to control the sodium levels. For a clearer broth, simmer the soup gently and avoid boiling once the chicken and vegetables are added. To add depth, consider roasting the bones before making the broth. Lastly, adding the egg noodles towards the end of cooking ensures they remain firm and not overly soft.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Amish Chicken Noodle Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill for an added touch of flavor. A side of crusty bread or a simple salad complements the soup well, making for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in making Amish Chicken Noodle Soup is simmering. Slowly simmering the chicken and vegetables allows the flavors to meld together and the ingredients to become tender. Another important technique is making a homemade broth, which forms the flavorful base of the soup.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're missing an ingredient or want to customize the soup, there are several substitutions you can make. For example, leeks can be used instead of onions, sweet potatoes instead of carrots, or turkey instead of chicken. These substitutions can add new flavors and textures to the soup.

Make Ahead Tips

Amish Chicken Noodle Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, consider adding the noodles fresh when reheating the soup to prevent them from becoming too soft.

Presentation Ideas

To elevate the presentation of Amish Chicken Noodle Soup, serve it in a hollowed-out bread bowl or garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving can also add a touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

This soup pairs well with a crisp, green salad or a light, acidic white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, which can help cut through the richness of the soup. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling apple cider complements the flavors nicely.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer. To reheat, thaw if frozen, then warm on the stove over medium heat until hot. Add additional broth or water if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Amish Chicken Noodle Soup contains approximately 150-200 calories, making it a low-calorie option that's filling and nutritious. This calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Amish Chicken Noodle Soup contains approximately 22 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the egg noodles and vegetables, providing a good source of energy. To reduce the carb content, consider using whole wheat noodles or reducing the amount of noodles in the recipe.

Fats

This soup is relatively low in fat, with about 5 grams per serving, depending on the chicken parts used. Using skinless chicken and skimming any fat from the top of the broth can further reduce the fat content, making it a leaner option.

Proteins

Amish Chicken Noodle Soup is an excellent source of protein, with roughly 25 grams per serving. The chicken not only contributes to the high protein content but also provides essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is packed with vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of vegetables and chicken. It's particularly high in Vitamin A from the carrots, Vitamin C from the celery, and B vitamins from the chicken. Minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and iron are also present, contributing to overall health and well-being.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are wheat (from the egg noodles) and potentially gluten. For those with allergies or sensitivities, gluten-free noodles can be used as a substitute without compromising the taste or texture of the soup.

Summary

Overall, Amish Chicken Noodle Soup is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's low in calories and can be easily modified to suit different dietary needs and preferences.

Summary

Amish Chicken Noodle Soup is a timeless, nourishing dish that embodies the simplicity and wholesomeness of Amish cooking. With its rich flavors, nutritional benefits, and comforting qualities, it's a recipe that can be enjoyed by all, whether on a chilly winter day or whenever a comforting meal is needed.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Amish Chicken Noodle Soup. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl visiting my Aunt Martha in the countryside. Aunt Martha was a wonderful cook, and she always made the most delicious meals with ingredients she grew in her own garden.

One rainy afternoon, Aunt Martha decided to make a big pot of chicken noodle soup to warm us up. As she gathered the ingredients, I watched in awe as she effortlessly chopped vegetables, boiled chicken, and cooked noodles. The rich aroma of the soup filled the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to taste it.

Once the soup was ready, Aunt Martha ladled out steaming bowls for us to enjoy. The first spoonful I tasted was like a warm hug on a cold day. The flavors were so comforting and familiar, yet unlike anything I had ever tried before. I asked Aunt Martha for the recipe, and she smiled and said, "It's a secret family recipe, passed down through generations of Amish women. But I'll teach you how to make it."

And so, Aunt Martha patiently showed me each step of the recipe, from making the rich chicken broth to adding the perfect blend of herbs and spices. I learned how to simmer the soup slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a truly delicious dish. As I stirred the pot, I felt a sense of pride and connection to my family's heritage.

Over the years, I have made Amish Chicken Noodle Soup many times, each batch slightly different but always delicious. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of homemade comfort food. And every time I make it, I think of Aunt Martha and the rainy day when she first taught me how to create something so special.

As I sit here now, stirring a pot of chicken noodle soup on my own stove, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories and the traditions that have shaped my love of cooking. The simple act of making a pot of soup connects me to my past and to the generations of women who came before me, each adding their own touch to this timeless recipe.

And so, as I ladle out bowls of steaming soup for my own family to enjoy, I know that I am passing on more than just a recipe. I am passing on a piece of my history, a taste of my heritage, and a sense of warmth and comfort that can only be found in a homemade meal made with love.