Let’s talk about one of the most comforting and nourishing foods out there: Bone Broth Noodle Soup. It’s a dish that combines the hearty goodness of noodles, the richness of homemade bone broth, and a comforting, soul-satisfying warmth. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly day or a nutritious option that promotes joint health and digestion, this dish ticks all the boxes.
Bone broth has been around for centuries, cherished by different cultures for its healing properties. Packed with collagen, gelatin, and minerals, bone broth offers a depth of flavor you just can’t get from store-bought broths. Combine that with tender noodles and some vegetables, and you’ve got a bowl of nourishment that not only tastes amazing but is great for your health too.
Ready to dive into this flavorful, wholesome recipe? Let’s break it down step-by-step, from gathering the ingredients to sipping that rich, savory broth.
Bone Broth Noodle Soup Recipe
This recipe is all about creating a vibrant, tasty, and health-packed bowl of soup that you can enjoy any time. It’s simple, but the result is so rich and fulfilling that you’ll want to make it regularly.
Ingredients Needed
Before you get started, here’s what you’ll need for the base of this soup:
Bone Broth Base
- Bone Broth: You’ll need about 6-8 cups of bone broth. If you’re making your own (which is highly recommended for the best flavor), simmer beef, chicken, or pork bones for hours. You can also go for store-bought, but homemade bone broth has that extra layer of depth.
- Aromatics (Onion, Garlic, Ginger): These will form the backbone of your flavor profile. Sauté them lightly to release all their fragrant oils into the broth.
- Soy Sauce or Tamari: For a little saltiness and umami.
- Herbs (Thyme, Bay Leaves, Parsley): Fresh herbs enhance the flavor and bring a beautiful fragrance to the soup.
- Salt & Pepper: Always season to taste. Bone broth can be a bit subtle, so salt is essential for bringing out the flavors.
Noodles
- Noodles: You can choose your favorite noodles here – egg noodles are great, but rice noodles or even udon work beautifully too. The noodles should be something that can absorb all that rich broth.
Vegetables
- Carrots: They add natural sweetness and color to the soup. Thinly slice them so they soften well.
- Celery: Another classic aromatic veggie that gives the soup a crisp texture and a subtle earthy flavor.
- Spinach or Kale: Adding some greens to the soup is not only healthy but also adds a nice contrast to the rich broth.
Optional Toppings
- Soft-boiled Eggs: A warm, runny egg on top can add richness and make this soup extra indulgent.
- Chopped Scallions: For a fresh, crispy bite that contrasts the soft, tender vegetables.
- Chili Flakes or Sriracha: A dash of spice for those who like a little kick in their soup.
Cooking Instructions
Making bone broth noodle soup is fairly straightforward. Here’s the step-by-step guide to bring this dish to life:
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Prepare The Bone Broth
- If you’re using homemade bone broth, warm it up in a large pot. If using store-bought, bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Add the onion, garlic, ginger, and any herbs you’re using. Let these simmer with the broth for 15-20 minutes. This will allow all the aromas to infuse the liquid.
- Stir in soy sauce or tamari for that umami kick. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
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Cook The Noodles
- While the broth is simmering, cook the noodles in a separate pot according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Add The Vegetables
- After your broth has simmered and is full of flavor, add the carrots and celery. Let them cook in the broth for about 5-7 minutes until they’re tender.
- Add the spinach or kale at the last minute. You want it to wilt just a little, not become overcooked.
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Combine And Serve
- Place a portion of noodles into each bowl.
- Ladle the hot broth and vegetables over the noodles.
- Garnish with any toppings you like, such as the soft-boiled egg, chopped scallions, or a drizzle of Sriracha for heat.
Enjoy a warm, flavorful bowl that’s as satisfying as it is healthy!
Ingredient Insights
To really appreciate the beauty of this soup, let’s dive into why each ingredient is chosen:
- Bone Broth: This is the star of the show. Bone broth is not only delicious but also nourishing. It’s full of collagen, gelatin, and amino acids like glycine, which are known to promote gut health, improve skin elasticity, and support joint function.
- Noodles: Noodles bring a satisfying, chewy texture that complements the richness of the broth. They soak up the flavors beautifully, making every spoonful packed with depth.
- Vegetables: Carrots and celery add not just flavor but also nutrients, especially fiber and vitamins. Greens like spinach or kale provide a dose of antioxidants and iron, contributing to the soup’s overall health benefits.
- Herbs and Aromatics: Aromatics like garlic, ginger, and onion elevate the flavor profile of the broth. Fresh herbs add brightness and a natural, herby fragrance to the dish.
- Toppings: Soft-boiled eggs contribute richness and extra protein. Scallions add a crisp bite, while chili flakes or Sriracha provide heat, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Expert Tips
- Use High-Quality Bone Broth: If you’re making your own, simmer the bones for a long time-ideally 12-24 hours-to extract all the nutrients. If you’re buying, look for a brand that doesn’t contain artificial additives.
- Don’t Skip the Aromatics: Garlic, ginger, and onion are your flavor foundation. Don’t just toss them in whole-lightly sauté them first to unlock their natural oils and bring out their flavors.
- Noodles Should Be Cooked Separately: If you add the noodles directly to the broth, they’ll soak up all the liquid and become mushy. Cook them separately, then combine them with the broth when serving.
- Add Greens at the End: Add your greens (spinach, kale, etc.) at the last minute to keep their texture and nutrients intact. Overcooking them can result in soggy, unappetizing greens.
- Broth Can Be Made Ahead: Bone broth is something you can prepare in bulk and freeze for later use. This makes it an ideal meal prep option. When ready, just thaw and build your soup!
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Bone Broth Noodle Soup: Add some chili paste, Sriracha, or fresh sliced red chili for a fiery version. The heat will contrast perfectly with the rich broth.
- Vegetarian Version: For a plant-based alternative, you can use vegetable broth and skip the meat-based bones. Tofu and mushrooms can take the place of the meat and still provide that hearty, umami flavor.
- Asian-Inspired: Go for miso or soy sauce-based broth with rice noodles or ramen. Top with soft-boiled eggs, seaweed, and even a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Herb-Focused: Add a little extra thyme, rosemary, or even basil for a more herbaceous flavor profile. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can brighten the soup as a garnish.
Final Words
Bone broth noodle soup is a dish that wraps you up in comfort, while also giving your body the nutrients it craves. It’s an incredibly flexible recipe, so you can tweak it to fit your preferences. Whether you’re a meat lover or looking for a vegetarian spin, it’s easy to make adjustments.
It’s the kind of soup that doesn’t just taste good-it feels good. From the savory broth to the tender vegetables and noodles, each bite is a warm hug for your insides.