“Italian penicillin” is a colloquial term often used to describe a comforting and nourishing chicken soup, which is believed by many to have healing properties. While it may not actually contain penicillin, the term reflects the idea that homemade chicken soup can help soothe colds and illnesses. Here’s a simple recipe for Italian-style chicken soup:
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into parts
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or small shells)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the chicken parts, chopped onion, sliced carrots, celery, minced garlic, bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the chicken broth over the ingredients in the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Remove the chicken pieces from the pot. Allow them to cool slightly, then shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, discarding the bones and skin.
- Meanwhile, add the small pasta to the simmering broth and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Return the shredded chicken to the pot. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove the bay leaf and discard.
- Serve the Italian penicillin hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
This comforting chicken soup is not only delicious but may also provide some relief when you’re feeling under the weather. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or peas for extra nutrition.
