Chicken soup for an immune boost

Chicken soup for a winter boost

Winter brings a chill that often tests our immune systems. This simple and nutritious chicken soup recipe, inspired by naturopathic principles, is designed to boost your immunity and keep you warm and healthy.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole organic chicken, cut into pieces

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 carrots, sliced

• 3 celery stalks, sliced

• 1 large parsnip, chopped

• 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced

• 1 piece (2 inches) fresh ginger, grated

• 1 piece (2 inches) fresh turmeric, grated (or 1 tsp ground turmeric)

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped

• 2 cups kale, chopped

• 1 lemon, juiced

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 8 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
  

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides. Remove the chicken and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and parsnip. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.

3. Add Mushrooms and Spices: Stir in the shiitake mushrooms, ginger, turmeric, thyme, oregano, and bay leaves. Cook for another 3 minutes to release their flavors.

4. Simmer the Soup: Return the chicken to the pot. Pour in the water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour, until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.

5. Final Touches: Remove the chicken pieces and let them cool slightly. Shred the chicken meat and discard the bones. Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Add the chopped parsley, kale, and lemon juice. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

6. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra parsley if desired. Naturopathic Insights:

• Organic Chicken: Rich in protein and essential amino acids.

• Garlic and Onion: Natural antibiotics with antiviral properties.

• Ginger and Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich.

• Shiitake Mushrooms: Boost immune function and have antiviral properties.

• Leafy Greens (Kale): High in vitamins A, C, and K.
  

This wholesome chicken soup is more than just a comforting meal; it's a potent blend of immune-boosting ingredients that can help you stay healthy all winter long. Enjoy!