Nonna’s Italian Penicillin Soup – A Timeless Healing Broth

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to rediscover a true treasure from the heart of Italy? Imagine the aroma of garlic and rosemary drifting through a warm kitchen on a chilly evening, the gentle simmer of broth whispering stories of generations past. This isn’t just any soup—it’s Nonna’s Italian Penicillin, the kind of healing broth that soothes the soul as much as it nourishes the body. 🍲✨

Born from centuries of rustic Italian tradition, this soup has always been a loving remedy for colds, fatigue, or simply the longing for home. Every spoonful tells of patient hands stirring with care, of golden chicken broth bubbling with herbs, of tender vegetables blending into a perfect harmony of comfort and strength. Whether you’re under the weather or simply in need of warmth, this ancient remedy—beloved by Italian grandmothers everywhere—will wrap you in love, one bowl at a time. ❤️

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🥣 Ingredients

For the Broth

• 1 whole chicken (about 3 lbs), cleaned and quartered
• 12 cups cold water
• 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Soup

• 1 ½ cups small pasta (orzo or ditalini)
• 1 cup shredded chicken (reserved from broth)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Directions

1. Begin the Healing Base
   Place the chicken pieces in a large stockpot and cover with the cold water. Slowly bring to a gentle boil, skimming off any foam that rises. This slow simmer is key—it keeps the broth clear and pure.
2. Infuse the Essence of Comfort
   Once the foam is removed, add carrots, celery, onion, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf. Reduce to a low simmer and cook, uncovered, for 1½ to 2 hours. The aroma will fill your home with warmth and nostalgia.
3. Strain with Care
   Remove the chicken and vegetables, then strain the broth through a fine mesh sieve. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Set the broth aside and shred some of the chicken meat to return to the soup later.
4. Bring It Together
   In a clean pot, warm olive oil and pour in the golden broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and add your small pasta. Cook until tender—about 8 to 10 minutes.
5. Add the Love
   Stir in the shredded chicken and let everything warm through for a few more minutes. Taste for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper. A squeeze of lemon at the end adds a beautiful brightness, balancing the richness of the broth. 🍋
6. Serve Like Nonna Would
   Ladle the soup into deep bowls, drizzle with a touch of olive oil, and sprinkle generously with Parmesan and fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread for the ultimate comfort.

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🧾 Nutritional Information

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Cooking Time: 2 hours | ⏳ Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: 310 | 🍽️ Servings: 6

Rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, this broth provides immune-boosting nourishment with minimal fat. Garlic and herbs lend anti-inflammatory properties, while the chicken’s natural collagen soothes and restores energy. Truly, nature’s remedy in a bowl. 🌿

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#comfortfood #italiantradition #healingbroth #nonnasrecipes #homemadesoup

Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️