Do you ever close your eyes and remember the feeling of a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup pressed into your hands as a kid?
The aroma, a warm hug in the air, promised not just a delicious meal, but a cure for whatever ailed you. That’s the magic of chicken noodle soup, a timeless classic that transcends mere sustenance.
But there’s something truly special about making it from scratch. You get to control the flavor symphony, using fresh ingredients to create a broth as rich and comforting as grandma’s recipe, or add your own twist for a personalized taste of pure bliss.
So, let’s revisit that feeling, together, with a pot of homemade chicken noodle soup that warms the soul from the inside out.
The Allure of Homemade Egg Noodles: A Delicious Step Up
We all know the convenience of store-bought noodles. They’re a lifesaver on busy nights, and there’s nothing wrong with that! But sometimes, you crave something a little more special. That’s where homemade egg noodles come in.
Homemade egg noodles offer a unique satisfaction that goes beyond just a quick meal. They have a wonderfully springy texture and a subtle eggy flavor that store-bought varieties just can’t replicate. Plus, the process of making them is surprisingly therapeutic!
It’s all about starting with simple ingredients: flour, eggs, and a pinch of salt. You’ll mix them together, knead the dough until smooth, and then roll it out nice and thin.
Finally, comes the fun part: cutting the dough into perfect noodles! While there are different techniques, it all boils down to these basic steps.
The reward? Noodles that are perfectly customized to your dish and taste. They’ll cook up faster, absorb sauce beautifully, and elevate your entire meal.
So, next time you’re craving a noodle dish, consider giving homemade egg noodles a try. You might be surprised at how easy and rewarding it is!
Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup With Egg Noodles From Scratch
Homemade chicken noodle soup with egg noodles from scratch is a classic comfort food that’s surprisingly easy to make. Here’s a breakdown of the recipe:
Ingredients
For the Soup
- Olive oil or butter
- Onion, carrots, celery (diced)
- Garlic (minced)
- Chicken broth or stock
- Water (optional)
- Bay leaves
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley) optional
- Salt and pepper
- Chicken (bone-in or boneless, breasts or thighs)
For the Egg Noodles
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Salt
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Egg Noodles (optional):
Combine flour and eggs on a lightly floured surface. Knead until smooth and elastic (about 10 minutes).
Roll out the dough thinly and cut into thin strips for noodles. Dust with flour to prevent sticking.
You can use a pasta machine for easier rolling and cutting if you have one.
Let the noodles dry for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onions, carrots, and celery and cook until softened (about 8 minutes).
Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Add chicken broth, water (if needed), bay leaves, herbs (if using), salt, and pepper to the pot.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Remove chicken from the pot and let cool slightly.
Shred the chicken meat and discard skin and bones (if using bone-in chicken).
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
If using store-bought noodles, follow package instructions.
For homemade noodles, add them to the simmering broth and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until al dente.
Step 6: Serve
Add shredded chicken back to the pot and stir to combine.
Taste and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper.
Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve hot.
Tips
- You can use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
- Leftover vegetables can be added to the soup.
- For a richer flavor, brown the chicken pieces before adding them to the broth.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your soup.
Customization and Tips for Success: Make it Yours!
Now that you’re ready to embark on your homemade egg noodle adventure, let’s explore how to make them truly your own.
Soup’s Up!
The beauty of homemade noodles is their versatility. They pair perfectly with a variety of vegetables, herbs, and spices. Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Classic: Chicken broth, carrots, peas, and fresh dill
- Asian-inspired: Coconut milk broth, red bell pepper, broccoli florets, and a sprinkle of sriracha
- Hearty Italian: Tomato broth, spinach, mushrooms, and a drizzle of pesto
Time-Saving Hacks
We all love a good shortcut! Don’t be afraid to utilize store-bought ingredients to streamline the process:
- Rotisserie Chicken: Shred leftover rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful protein addition.
- Pre-Chopped Veggies: Save time by using pre-chopped vegetables from your grocery store.
Troubleshooting Tips
Homemade cooking is all about learning from experience. Here are a few pointers to ensure your noodle success:
- Don’t Overcook: Homemade noodles cook much faster than store-bought. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the broth just before they reach your desired texture.
- Season to Taste: Start with a basic broth and adjust the seasoning (salt, pepper, herbs) to your preference as you go.
Remember, cooking should be fun! So experiment, adjust, and most importantly, enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious and personalized noodle dish from scratch.
FAQs
Is it better to cook egg noodles before adding to soup?
Generally, cook them directly in the soup for best flavor. However, if making a big batch or planning leftovers, cook them separately to prevent mushy noodles.
How do you thicken homemade chicken noodle soup?
Here are two options for thickening chicken noodle soup:
- Starch slurry: Mix cornstarch or flour with water, whisk it into simmering soup for thickening.
- Cook with rice or mashed veggies: Rice or mashed potatoes release starch as they cook, thickening the soup naturally.
How to thicken soup with egg?
Whisk eggs or yolks with a bit of hot soup. Slowly whisk the warmed egg mixture back into the simmering soup to thicken without scrambling.
Conclusion
The reward of creating a steaming pot of homemade chicken noodle soup is more than just a delicious meal; it’s a heartwarming experience.
From the simmering broth infused with fresh flavors to the perfect bite of tender noodles, every spoonful is a testament to the love and care you poured into it.
So, grab your favorite pot, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking! Don’t be afraid to experiment with this recipe – add your favorite vegetables, herbs, or spices.
Share your variations in the comments below, and together, we can create a symphony of comforting flavors in every bowl.