Here’s a recipe for an anti-inflammatory turmeric chicken soup that’s both nutritious and delicious:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup coconut milk (optional for added creaminess)
- 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the pot. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Spice it Up:
- Stir in the ground turmeric, cumin, coriander, black pepper, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to become fragrant.
- Add Liquids:
- Pour in the chicken broth and coconut milk (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Finish the Soup:
- Add the chopped kale or spinach and cook for another 5 minutes, until the greens are wilted.
- Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt to taste.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Tips:
- You can add other anti-inflammatory ingredients like a pinch of ground cloves or a small amount of freshly ground black pepper to enhance the absorption of curcumin from turmeric.
- For a heartier soup, add a can of chickpeas or a cup of cooked quinoa.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy turmeric chicken soup!