I’m Sick… Doctored-Up Quick Soup

I remember one particularly brutal cold I caught during my first winter living in Chicago. The wind was relentless, my nose was a faucet, and my throat felt like sandpaper. My grandmother, a woman who believed chicken soup could cure just about anything, would have disapproved of my ingredient-less state. Desperate, I rummaged through my bare pantry, piecing together a vaguely chicken-y, vaguely herbal concoction. Miraculously, it provided a little soothing relief. This recipe is an upgraded version of that desperate attempt, a truly effective and delicious way to kick a cold to the curb without spending hours in the kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 2
• Dietary Type: Adaptable (see variations)

Ingredients

• 2 (14 ounce) cans chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons dried onion, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• ⅛ teaspoon McCormick’s Montreal Brand steak seasoning
• 1 (3 ounce) package ramen noodles or 1 cup pasta, of your choice

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Measuring spoons

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the 2 cans of chicken broth, 2 tablespoons of dried onion, minced, 1 teaspoon of dried garlic, minced, 1 teaspoon of dried dill weed, 1 tablespoon of dried parsley, and ⅛ teaspoon of McCormick’s Montreal Brand steak seasoning.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes. This allows the dried herbs and spices to rehydrate and infuse the broth with their comforting flavors.
3. Add 1 (3 ounce) package of ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packet – save it for later use in mashed potatoes or stir-fries for a sodium-packed flavor boost!) or 1 cup of your favorite pasta.
4. Continue to simmer the soup for another 5-10 minutes, or until the noodles or pasta are cooked through and tender. Check frequently to prevent overcooking; nobody likes mushy noodles when they are already feeling under the weather.
5. Serve hot and steamy. Inhaling the steam can help clear your sinuses and provide additional relief.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Boost the Broth: While this recipe is designed for speed, you can enhance the broth’s flavor by adding a small knob of fresh ginger, a smashed garlic clove, or a few slices of lemon while it simmers. Remove them before serving.
• Quick Veggies: Stir in a handful of frozen peas, spinach, or chopped carrots during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and texture. No need to thaw them first!
• Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can help clear congestion and add a welcome kick to the soup.
• Salt Sensibly: Taste the soup before adding any additional salt. The steak seasoning and chicken broth already contain sodium, so you may not need any more.
• Make-Ahead Tip: While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the broth base (before adding the noodles) up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the broth and add the noodles.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this soup piping hot in a large bowl. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors and add a boost of vitamin C. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill adds a touch of visual appeal.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The noodles will continue to absorb the broth as it sits, so the soup may be less brothy upon reheating. Add a splash of water or extra chicken broth when reheating to restore the desired consistency. I do not recommend freezing this soup, as the noodles will become mushy upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	300 kcal	15%
Total Fat	8g	10%
Saturated Fat	2g	10%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	1500mg	65%
Total Carbohydrate	40g	15%
Dietary Fiber	2g	7%
Sugars	4g	–
Protein	15g	30%

Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Ensure your pasta is egg-free for a vegan option. Consider adding a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or rice noodles in place of the ramen noodles.
• Protein Boost: Add shredded cooked chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Montreal steak seasoning to control the saltiness and spice level. You can substitute it with your favorite all-purpose seasoning blend.
• Mediterranean Twist: Add a pinch of dried oregano and a squeeze of lemon juice for a brighter, more vibrant flavor profile.
• Coconut Curry Version: Use coconut milk instead of broth, add a spoonful of red curry paste, and garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
A: Absolutely! Use about 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs. Add them towards the end of the simmering time to preserve their flavor.

Q: What if I don’t have Montreal steak seasoning?
A: No problem! Substitute with a blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of coriander.

Q: Can I add vegetables other than frozen ones?
A: Yes! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Harder vegetables like carrots and celery should be added at the beginning of the simmering process, while softer vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms can be added towards the end.

Q: How can I reduce the sodium content of this soup?
A: Use low-sodium chicken broth and omit the Montreal steak seasoning or use it sparingly. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar to brighten the flavor without adding salt.

Q: Is this soup suitable for children?
A: Yes, but be mindful of the salt content and spice level. You may want to omit the Montreal steak seasoning altogether or use a very small amount. Cut the noodles into smaller pieces for easier consumption.

Final Thoughts

This doctored-up quick soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl. It’s a reminder that even when you’re feeling your worst, a little bit of effort in the kitchen can make a world of difference. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ingredients and make it your own. Share your creations and modifications with friends and family, and let’s spread the healing power of soup, one bowl at a time! I would love to hear how this soup helped you feel better, so please leave a comment below with your experiences or variations!