Description
Italian Penicillin Soup is a comforting and healing soup that combines fresh garlic, ginger, Italian herbs, and rich broth to soothe the body and lift the spirits. Perfect for cold days or when you need a nurturing meal, it blends traditional Italian flavors with natural remedies for a warm, flavorful bowl of restorative comfort.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4–6 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger root, finely minced
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
- 2 teaspoons Italian herbs blend (oregano, basil, thyme)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt to taste (sea salt recommended)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1 cup cooked chicken pieces (for added protein)
Optional Add-ins and Variations
- Crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce (for spicy kick)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder (for healing boost)
- 1 tablespoon honey (for soothing benefits)
- Chopped kale, spinach, or mushrooms (for extra heartiness)
- Gluten-free broth and additives (to keep it gluten-free)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Aromatics: Finely mince the fresh garlic and ginger. Heat olive oil over medium heat and gently sauté the garlic and ginger for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to brown them.
- Build the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth or vegetable broth if making the vegetarian version. Bring it to a gentle simmer and add the Italian herbs blend. Let the soup warm and the flavors meld for about 10 minutes.
- Add Protein and Seasonings: If using chicken pieces, add them now to poach gently in the broth. Season the soup with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors and support immune-boosting properties.
- Simmer and Finish: Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and drizzle with a little more olive oil before serving to add a silky texture.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor and healing benefits.
- Gently sauté garlic and ginger to release aroma without bitterness.
- Keep the soup at a gentle simmer to maintain broth clarity and avoid overcooking.
- Adjust lemon juice according to taste to lift the flavor profile.
- For richer flavor, refrigerate the soup overnight and reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: Italian Penicillin Soup, healing soup, garlic soup, ginger soup, immune boosting soup, comforting soup, gluten free appetizer, Italian herbs soup