Jewish Chicken Soup
A Taste of Home: Jewish Chicken Noodle Soup Done Right.
Per Serving
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 whole chicken about 1.8-2.3 kilograms, cut into pieces
- 1 onion peeled and chopped
- 2 carrots peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 2 parsnips peeled and chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme about 2.5 mL
- 1 teaspoon dried dill about 2.5 mL
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2.8 liters about 12 cups water
For the Noodles:
- 8-10 ounces 250g of wide egg noodles or your preferred type
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Soup Base: In a large soup pot, add the chicken pieces, chopped onion, carrots, celery, parsnips (if using), minced garlic, bay leaf, dried thyme, dried dill, and 2.8 liters (about 12 cups) of water. The water should cover the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Skim off any foam that rises to the top during simmering.
- Chicken Removal: Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool. You can strain the broth at this point to remove any solids and achieve a clear soup or leave the vegetables in for a heartier version.
- Store-Bought Noodles: While the chicken cools, bring a separate pot of water to a boil. Cook the store-bought noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Finish the Soup: Shred the cooled chicken meat and return it to the pot. Bring the soup back to a simmer and add the noodles. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the hot chicken noodle soup into bowls, garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired, and serve piping hot.
Jewish Chicken Soup: History, Variations, and Traditions
Introduction
Discover the rich history and timeless appeal of Jewish chicken soup, often referred to as “Jewish Chicken Soup,” a beloved comfort food cherished for generations. In this blog post, we’ll delve into its origins, explore traditional and regional variations, and uncover the heartwarming traditions surrounding this iconic dish.
Origins and Traditions
Jewish Origins of Chicken Soup:
Jewish chicken soup has its roots deeply embedded in Ashkenazi Jewish cuisine. Originating in Eastern European Jewish households, this soul-soothing soup symbolizes love, warmth, and sustenance. Traditionally prepared by Jewish mothers and grandmothers, the essence of authentic Jewish chicken soup lies in the slow simmering of a whole chicken, resulting in a flavorful, aromatic broth.
The addition of aromatic vegetables, including onions, carrots, celery, and parsnips, along with herbs like thyme and dill, imparts a distinctive flavor profile. Homemade noodles or matza balls are quintessential elements, elevating it to the pinnacle of comfort food.
Non-Jewish Influences:
While Jewish in origin, chicken noodle soup has transcended cultural boundaries to become a beloved classic worldwide. It has adapted and evolved, with variations such as Vietnamese pho, Chinese chicken noodle soup, and American chicken noodle soup captivating the taste buds of diverse populations.
Variations of the Recipe
The traditional Jewish chicken soup recipe, outlined earlier, showcases homemade noodles or Matza Balls as its hallmark. However, creativity knows no bounds in the world of culinary arts, leading to variations that include substituting rice for noodles or experimenting with different herbs and spices for unique flavours.
Non-Jewish Variations: In American cuisine, the use of store-bought egg noodles simplifies the preparation process, while Asian-inspired renditions may introduce ginger and soy sauce for added depth.
What to Serve with Jewish Chicken Soup
Jewish chicken soup stands proudly on its own, yet it harmonizes wonderfully with various accompaniments, such as:
- Challah Bread: Slices of freshly baked challah, a traditional Jewish bread, complement the soup beautifully.
- Kreplach: These Jewish dumplings, often filled with meat or mashed potatoes, can be added to the soup or served alongside.
- Pickles: The sour tang of pickles provides a delightful contrast to the soup’s richness.
- Matza: Unleavened matza, a staple during Passover, makes an authentic accompaniment.
Storing and Utilizing Leftovers
Maximize your enjoyment of this delectable soup by following best practices for storing and repurposing leftovers:
Storing:
- Safely store leftover soup in an airtight container in your refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for 3-4 days.
Leftover Ideas:
- Chicken Salad: Transform leftover chicken into a flavorful chicken salad by mixing it with mayonnaise, celery, and spices.
- Soup Revival: Breathe new life into your leftover soup by adding fresh vegetables and a touch more broth.
- Freezing: If you wish to save some for later, freezing is an option. Label and date the container, as chicken noodle soup can be frozen for 2-3 months.
Reheating:
- Gently reheat soup on the stovetop over low heat to preserve its flavor and consistency.
Matza Balls: A Delightful Enhancement
Matza balls, also known as kneidlach, are a quintessential addition to Jewish chicken soup. These dumplings, crafted from matza meal, eggs, and fat (often schmaltz), come in two varieties: light and fluffy “floaters” or denser “sinkers.” Traditionally enjoyed during Passover, they have found their way into year-round Jewish cuisine.
To prepare matza balls, simply mix matza meal, eggs, fat, and a pinch of salt. Shape the mixture into balls and simmer them in the soup until cooked through. These delightful dumplings offer a delightful textural contrast to the savory broth of the soup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jewish chicken soup, often referred to as “Jewish Chicken Soup,” is a culinary treasure with a history that spans generations. Whether you savor the classic Jewish version or explore diverse regional adaptations, this dish continues to unite people with its rich history and comforting flavors. As you savor a bowl of this beloved soup, remember the tradition, love, and warmth simmered into each spoonful.
Wikipedia – Chicken Soup
Try our Matzo Ball Recipe to accompany the Chicken Soup.
