Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein in this Wholesome Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup?
The main protein is one whole chicken, which is cut into pieces before cooking.
How much water is required to make the broth?
The recipe requires one gallon of water to start the broth.
How long should the chicken simmer initially?
The chicken should simmer alone for 30 minutes after reaching a rolling boil.
What aromatics are added to the pot after the initial 30 minutes?
A halved onion, bay leaves, black peppercorns, whole celery stalks, whole carrots, and optional lemongrass are added.
How many bay leaves are used in the broth?
The recipe calls for three whole bay leaves.
Is lemongrass a required ingredient?
No, three tablespoons of chopped lemongrass are optional.
How long do the aromatics simmer in the pot?
The aromatics simmer with the chicken for an additional hour.
What should I do with the solids after simmering the broth?
Once simmered, you should strain the broth into a separate container and discard the solids.
Do I keep the chicken skin in the soup?
No, you should remove the skin after the chicken has cooled and then shred the meat.
How much chicken soup base is needed for this recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of chicken soup base.
What type of noodles are recommended for this soup?
8 ounces (one package) of dry egg noodles are recommended.
How should the carrots be prepared for the final soup assembly?
One pound of carrots should be peeled and sliced.
How long do the sliced carrots and chopped celery cook in the strained broth?
They should be cooked for 20 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
What should I do with the celery leaves?
The celery leaves should be reserved, chopped, and added to the pot with the noodles.
How long do the egg noodles need to simmer?
The noodles should simmer for about 10 minutes until they are cooked through.
Can this chicken noodle soup be frozen?
Yes, this recipe makes a large batch that is ideal for freezing.
What are some suggested side dishes for this meal?
It is recommended to serve the soup with your favorite salad and crusty bread.
How many peppercorns are used in the broth phase?
The recipe calls for 10 whole black peppercorns.
How much celery is used in total?
The recipe uses approximately 2/3 bunch of celery.
When do I add the shredded chicken back into the soup?
The shredded chicken is added back at the final step to heat through before serving.
Should I skim the fat from the soup?
Yes, you should skim off any fat that rises to the surface during the initial 30-minute simmer.
What size onion should I use for the broth?
The recipe specifies one large onion, peeled and halved.
How do I handle the chicken after it finishes simmering?
Allow the chicken to cool until manageable, remove the skin, and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
Is this recipe easy to double?
Yes, the description notes that it is ideal for doubling if you want a larger supply.
What heat setting is used to bring the water to a boil?
The pot should be set over high heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
What is the total simmering time for the broth?
The total simmering time is 1.5 hours (30 minutes initially plus 1 hour with aromatics).
How are the vegetables for the broth phase handled differently than the final soup vegetables?
The broth vegetables (whole stalks) are discarded after straining, while the final vegetables (sliced/chopped) remain in the soup.
Does this soup contain sugar?
Based on the ingredients list provided, no sugar is added to this recipe.
What is the primary benefit of this soup according to the description?
It is described as a heartwarming remedy for chilly days and weary souls.
How many ingredients are listed in this recipe?
There are 10 total ingredients listed in the recipe.