Name: Anti-Inflammatory Turmeric Chicken Soup
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced: Lean protein that is low in fat and high in essential nutrients like B vitamins and zinc, crucial for immune health.; 1 tbsp olive oil: A source of healthy fats that enhances the absorption of curcumin from turmeric.; 1 onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, rich in antioxidants like quercetin.; 2 cloves garlic, minced: Known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, garlic is a must-have in any healing recipe.; 1 inch ginger, minced: A powerful anti-inflammatory root that complements turmeric, helping to soothe digestive issues.; 2 carrots, diced: Provides natural sweetness and is rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health and immune function.; 1 tsp turmeric powder: The star ingredient, packed with curcumin, which offers potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.; 1 tsp ground cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness to the soup, with digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.; 1/2 tsp ground coriander: Offers a hint of citrus and sweetness, known for its digestive and detoxifying effects.; 1/2 tsp ground black pepper: Enhances the absorption of curcumin and adds a mild heat to the soup.; 4 cups chicken broth: The base of your soup, rich in collagen and minerals that support gut health and immune function.; 1 can coconut milk (optional for creaminess): Adds a creamy texture and additional healthy fats that help with curcumin absorption.; Salt to taste: Balances the flavors; use sparingly to keep the soup heart-healthy.; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and provides a dose of vitamin C, which supports immune health.; Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish: Adds freshness and color, with added vitamin K and antioxidants.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, diced: Lean protein that is low in fat and high in essential nutrients like B vitamins and zinc, crucial for immune health.
1 tbsp olive oil: A source of healthy fats that enhances the absorption of curcumin from turmeric.
1 onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, rich in antioxidants like quercetin.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, garlic is a must-have in any healing recipe.
1 inch ginger, minced: A powerful anti-inflammatory root that complements turmeric, helping to soothe digestive issues.
2 carrots, diced: Provides natural sweetness and is rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health and immune function.
1 tsp turmeric powder: The star ingredient, packed with curcumin, which offers potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
1 tsp ground cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness to the soup, with digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.
1/2 tsp ground coriander: Offers a hint of citrus and sweetness, known for its digestive and detoxifying effects.
1/2 tsp ground black pepper: Enhances the absorption of curcumin and adds a mild heat to the soup.
4 cups chicken broth: The base of your soup, rich in collagen and minerals that support gut health and immune function.
1 can coconut milk (optional for creaminess): Adds a creamy texture and additional healthy fats that help with curcumin absorption.
Salt to taste: Balances the flavors; use sparingly to keep the soup heart-healthy.
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and provides a dose of vitamin C, which supports immune health.
Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish: Adds freshness and color, with added vitamin K and antioxidants.

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and minced ginger to the pot.
Sauté the mixture until the onion becomes soft and translucent, releasing the aromatic flavors that will form the base of your soup.

Cook the Chicken

Add the diced chicken breast to the pot, and ensure that the chicken is spread evenly.
Cook the chicken until it is browned on all sides, which will enhance its flavor and lock in the juices.
Make sure the chicken is cooked thoroughly before moving to the next step.

Add the Spices

Stir in 1 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp ground coriander, and 1/2 tsp ground black pepper.
Cook the spices with the chicken and aromatics for about a minute, allowing them to become fragrant. This step is crucial as it helps to release the essential oils in the spices, intensifying their flavors.

Simmer the Soup

Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor.
Bring the soup to a simmer, then add the diced carrots.
Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Optional Coconut Milk

If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in 1 can of coconut milk during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
The coconut milk will add a rich, smooth texture to the soup, along with healthy fats that aid in the absorption of curcumin.

Finish and Serve

Add 1 tbsp of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors and add a touch of acidity.
Season the soup with salt to taste, keeping in mind that the broth may already contain some salt.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve the soup hot, enjoying the rich flavors and health benefits with each spoonful.