Italian Penicillin Soup is a beloved comfort dish known for its soothing warmth and healing reputation. Made with tender chicken, delicate pastina, and a clear, flavorful broth, this soup is often the first meal Italians turn to when feeling under the weather.
Penicillin Soup:
Simple yet deeply nourishing, this soup is gentle on the stomach and rich in flavour despite its minimal ingredients. It’s a bowl of love, traditionally prepared by nonnas to restore strength, comfort the soul, and help you feel better fast.
History:
Often referred to as “Italian Penicillin,” this soup has roots in traditional Italian home cooking. For generations, Italian families prepared chicken broth with tiny pasta shapes for sick days, cold weather, or emotional comfort. While not a medicine, its warming broth, protein, and easy digestion earned it its affectionate nickname as a natural healer.
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Italian Penicillin Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, halved
- 1 carrot, halved
- 1 celery stalk, halved
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken (bone-in preferred)c
- 6 cups water or chicken broth
- ½ cup pastina or small pasta
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrot, and celery; sauté lightly.
- Add chicken and pour in water or broth.
- Simmer gently for 25 minutes until chicken is tender.
- Remove chicken, shred it, and discard vegetables if desired.
- Return chicken to the pot and add pastina.
- Cook until pasta is soft.
- Garnish with parsley or Parmesan and serve warm.
Notes
- Bone-in chicken gives the best flavour.
- Pastina cooks quickly—watch closely.
- Soup thickens as it sits.
- Parmesan adds richness if desired.
- Best enjoyed hot and fresh.
Tips for Penicillin Soup:
- Add a beaten egg for extra protein.
- Use homemade broth for deeper flavor.
- Cook pasta separately for clearer broth.
- Add lemon zest for brightness.
- Keep seasoning simple and gentle.
FAQs for Penicillin Soup:
Q1: Why is it called Italian Penicillin Soup?
Because it’s traditionally served when sick for comfort and nourishment.
Q2: Can I use regular pasta?
Yes, but small pasta shapes work best.
Q3: Is this soup good for colds?
Yes, it’s warm, light, and easy to digest.
Q4: Can I freeze this soup?
Freeze without pasta for best texture.
Q5: Can I add vegetables?
Yes, finely chopped carrots or spinach work well.
Conclusion:
Italian Penicillin Soup is the ultimate comfort dish—simple, soothing, and filled with care. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just craving something warm and familiar, this classic Italian soup delivers comfort in every spoonful.