Grandma’s Penicillin with a Twist

The weather here on the West Coast has taken a turn again and it feels a little like winter. So it is only fitting that we share a yummy cold-weather, kid-friendly recipe that will warm you all up and nourish you to the core.

Chicken noodle soup is nicknamed “Grandma’s penicillin” not only because of its nourishing properties but its ability to stave off colds and flus. This is likely because it provides immune strengthening vitamins and minerals as well as a warming, soothing energy. I’ve been hearing of folks getting the last round of flu lately so, with any luck, this will help some of you that have not been afflicted, and certainly those of you who have.

Kids love this soup because of the noodles. We suggest using brown rice noodles. Your kids will never know the difference from white noodles, plus they’re much easier to digest and are more nourishing. They’ll love slurping them up and making a grand mess. Enjoy!

Chicken Noodle soup, with Ground Turkey Sausage

3 carrots, scrubbed, not peeled and sliced thinly
2 celery sticks, sliced thinly
1 onion, minced
2 tablespoons cold-pressed olive oil and/or organic butter
10 cups of organic chicken broth (ideally homemade but in the carton is ok too)
2 cups of brown rice noodles, spiral, or other favorite shape J
A handful of minced parsley, minced
Unrefined salt and pepper – just a pinch

1/2 pound of specialty ground turkey or turkey sausage (preferably organic & nitrate-free)
1 teaspoon of onion powder
1/2 teaspoon of garlic or one clove
1/2 teaspoon of unrefined salt
1 teaspoon of thyme or sage
freshly ground pepper

1. Heat oil in pot over low to medium heat. When hot, add chopped veggies, stirring frequently. Cook until vegetables are soft. Feel free to add your kids favourite veggies, it doesn’t have to be the same as above.
2. Add broth and bring to a boil. Add noodles, return to a boil, lower heat and let simmer until noodles are soft (check package for time allotment).
3. Meanwhile prepare turkey. In a small saucepan over medium heat, cook the turkey with seasoning until cooked through. Season with salt and pepper, and add to soup when the noodles are done.
5. Add some minced parsley and cook for a few minutes. Check the taste. If using homemade broth, salt and pepper to taste.