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Here’s a detailed, unique article about Italian Penicillin Soup, with a step-by-step cooking method:

Italian Penicillin Soup: A Healing Comfort in a Bowl

When it comes to comfort food that doubles as a restorative remedy, Italian Penicillin Soup is a culinary gem. Inspired by the traditional Italian penchant for blending aromatic herbs, hearty vegetables, and nourishing broths, this soup is a modern twist on a time-tested idea: food that heals. Rich, flavorful, and soothing, it’s perfect for chilly evenings, post-illness recovery, or anytime your body and soul crave a warm embrace in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced (optional, for a mild licorice note)
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
1 bay leaf
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup cooked shredded chicken (optional for a non-vegetarian version)
1 medium potato, diced (adds body and comfort)
1 teaspoon turmeric powder (natural anti-inflammatory)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Juice of half a lemon (adds a refreshing tang)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese, optional topping

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare Your Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, sautéing until they soften and the onions turn translucent. This forms the aromatic base that gives the soup its comforting depth.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to avoid burning, and let the garlic release its fragrance—this is the first layer of “medicine” in your soup.

Step 2: Add Herbs and Fennel

Once the vegetables are softened, add thyme, bay leaf, and sliced fennel (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes until the herbs become fragrant. The fennel adds a subtle, slightly sweet flavor that complements the warmth of the broth and spices.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

Gradually add chicken or vegetable broth to the pot, stirring gently to combine with the sautéed vegetables. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.