Peace, Love & Chicken Feet: In Broth We Trust

In November, I devote my life to broth. 

Broth is a humble but mighty liquid with the magical healing power to transform a no-good, very bad day into something a bit more tolerable. In my household, when complex emotions and snot fly, I turn to the comforts of chicken soup. This year, as the leaves drop and noses run, Seasonal Affective Disorder is not the only thing making me sad. In this time of global conflict, perhaps the one thing we can all agree on is that the current mood is dark.

Whether controversy or cold symptoms inspire a bowl, chicken soup is a coping strategy that unites. 

From continent to continent and across cultural divides, chicken broth is the foundation of culinary expression. Broth is the basis of beloved soups, sauces, and dishes that warm the hearts and minds of people across the globe. While broth can be made of meat, poultry, fish, or vegetables, chicken broth is the worldwide go-to when times get tough. In some cultures, the chicken is a sign of good luck and the dawn of a new day. Perhaps the bird’s positive energy infuses with seasonings and aromatics to produce a liquid ripe with a good vibe. I support this narrative. 

If you buy your broth in a box from the grocery store, you get no judgment from me. However, for the faithful home cooks among us, I offer my chicken broth recipe. It is a potion designed to evoke the wellness magic of Penicillin and, if you dare, the anti-aging enchantment of the Fountain of Youth. 

The creation story of my recipe is one of cultural collaboration. Handed down from my Ashkenazi Jewish Aunt Debbie to her Syrian-Catholic son-in-law, the original recipe evolved from a standard whole chicken to include some unexpected parts. Cousin Steve’s addition of chicken feet, when simmered with other chicken parts and aromatic vegetables, adds richness and body to the broth.

The gelatin and collagen in the chicken feet create a thick and hearty soup base with a bonus dose of rejuvenation. If you are spending thousands to pump your bod with collagen-enhancing elixirs, consider this natural source. While they resemble toddler hands, the flavor boost is unmatched. Feeling squeamish? Forego the feet. In the spirit of peace and love–you do you. 

Aunt Debbie and Cousin Steve’s Chicken Broth

Ingredients:

• ½ cup olive oil
• 2 whole carrots cut in half
• 2 whole celery stalks cut in half
• 1 head of fennel
• 1 head of garlic
• 1 onion cut in half
• 1 lemon cut in half
• 1lb of chicken feet and 1lb of chicken wings (or one whole chicken)
• Handful of dill and/or parsley
• 10 peppercorns
• Pinch of salt (add to taste when preparing food)

Method:

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425 F. In a plastic bag, combine chicken parts with olive oil, a few pinches of salt, and a grind of pepper. Roast chicken parts on a sheet pan for 45 minutes. 

Step 2: Place roasted chicken and other ingredients in a 7-quart slow cooker. Fill with water. Cook for eight hours on low setting. Go about your business.  

Step 3: Using a ladle, strain broth into four 1-quart containers. 

The Lady’s Easy Chicken Noodle Soup for the Floof Soul

Step 1: Cut fresh carrots, celery, onion, and other desired vegetables into bite-sized pieces. 

Step 2: Boil four quarts of homemade or store-bought broth. Add vegetables and simmer for 20 minutes or until vegetables are soft. 

Step 3: After the first 10 minutes, add 1 lb of egg noodles.  

Step 4: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with a side of challah.

Do you love broth? What is your favorite recipe?