Grandma’s Turmeric Chicken Soup

Grandma’s Turmeric Chicken Soup is a comforting, nourishing dish packed with anti-inflammatory spices and wholesome ingredients. This golden-hued soup is a family favorite, perfect for cozy nights or when you need a little pick-me-up. With its blend of vibrant vegetables, tender chicken, and flavorful spices, it’s both delicious and healing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Warm and Comforting: Perfect for cold days or when you need a comforting bowl of goodness.
• Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with anti-inflammatory turmeric, protein-rich chicken, and nutrient-dense greens.
• Customizable: Add quinoa, rice, or other veggies to make it your own.
• Easy to Prepare: Ready in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
• ½ cup cooked quinoa or rice (optional)
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 3–5 minutes.
3. Stir in the sliced carrot and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Add the Spices

4. Sprinkle in the ground turmeric, ginger, cumin, and black pepper. Stir and cook for about 1 minute until the spices are fragrant.

Add Broth and Chicken

5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

7. Add the shredded chicken and chopped kale or spinach to the pot.
8. If using, stir in the cooked quinoa or rice.
9. Simmer for another 5–10 minutes until the greens are wilted and the soup is heated through.

Finish and Serve

10. Stir in the lemon juice and adjust the salt to taste.
11. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy

12. Serve the soup hot and savor the comforting, nourishing flavors.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: Serves 4–6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced chili for extra heat.
• Herbal Twist: Add fresh thyme or rosemary for an earthy flavor.
• Gluten-Free Grains: Use cooked millet or buckwheat as a substitute for quinoa or rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

1. What makes this soup anti-inflammatory?

The turmeric, ginger, and black pepper in this recipe are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making this soup both healing and flavorful.

2. Can I use fresh turmeric and ginger instead of ground?

Yes, grate about 1 inch of fresh turmeric and ginger each to replace the ground versions.

3. How can I make this soup dairy-free?

This soup is naturally dairy-free, so no modifications are necessary.

4. Can I substitute spinach for kale?

Absolutely! Spinach works perfectly as a substitute and wilts quickly in the soup.

5. How can I thicken the soup?

Add a slurry of cornstarch and water or blend a portion of the soup for a thicker consistency.

6. What other vegetables can I add?

You can include zucchini, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers for more variety.

7. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great option for this soup.

8. Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well. Just avoid adding the greens before freezing—add them when reheating.

9. What can I serve with this soup?

Pair it with crusty bread, a side salad, or crackers for a complete meal.

10. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, sauté the onions, garlic, and spices first, then add everything except the greens and lemon juice to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–6 hours, adding the greens and lemon juice just before serving.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Turmeric Chicken Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining heartwarming flavors with the healing benefits of turmeric and ginger. Whether you’re fighting a cold, craving a nourishing meal, or simply want something delicious, this soup is a must-try. Customize it with your favorite greens, grains, or veggies and enjoy a bowl of golden goodness!

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