J-Pen, as I affectionately like to call this soup, or Jewish Penicillin, is the type of recipe that has becomes habitual from years and years of exposure. Somehow, the steps and process permeate my being and, every time an inkling of a cold emerges, J-Pen is the first line of defense. In my family, each generation puts their unique imprint on the soup, but the root of the matter is always the same. For my version, I add extra immune boosters - ginger and turmeric - to add that nutrient oomph. I also take the extra step of browning the chicken, a simple albeit slightly timely step that yields a multitude of value in flavor. Browning the chicken not only locks in the juices and creates a caramelized crust on the meat, but also the browned bits in the pan add a fantastic foundation to the soup, lending depth and flavor. The finishing touch of lime, which is one of my favorite tricks learned from my Mexican co-workers during my restaurant days, provides a refreshing burst of acidity as well as a dose of Vitamin C. Although this soup is not your mother's J-Pen, it for sure will become a staple in your home on frosty nights or "under the weather" days.
Read moreradish recs: skip the bottle and make your own dressing
For Birchbox's 31-day challenge, I prompted readers to skip the bottle and make their own salad dressing. Pouring on packaged dressings can derail your good intentions for a crunch-fest. Instead of boosting the nutrient level of your greens, you are likely adding sodium, sugar, artificial flavors, and preservatives. Here are three simple dressings that you can make at home to elevate your crunch-munch game.
Read morePop it Off
This recipe was initially featured on Refinery29, but I wanted it to find a home here, on The Crunchy Radish. Zesty, flavorful, and antioxidant- rich, this carrot ginger soup makes for a lovely light and nourishing "clean" meal. The topping of the poppers makes the soup more hearty and fills a void where heavy and calorically dense croutons or bread typically lie.
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