My grandma’s version of this soup was simply the best. Haven’t found any version better than this one!

Step 5: Optional Additions
If you want a heartier soup, add cooked shredded chicken, small pasta shapes, or rice at this stage. Allow them to heat through for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Step 6: Final Taste and Adjustments
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Some like it slightly saltier, others prefer a touch more pepper. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve it hot with a slice of crusty bread or your favorite roll for the ultimate comfort meal.

Tips to Make It Truly Like Grandma’s

1. Low and Slow: Don’t rush the simmering process. Slow cooking unlocks the deepest flavors.
2. Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables—they make a noticeable difference.
3. Love in Every Stir: Sounds cliché, but there’s something magical about cooking with care, just like grandma did.
4. Leftovers Get Better: This soup often tastes even better the next day, once the flavors have melded overnight.

This soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a memory, a tradition, and a comfort all in one. Following these steps brings a little piece of my grandma’s kitchen into your home—warm, hearty, and absolutely irresistible. Give it a try, and you might just find your own version of the best soup ever.

If you want, I can also create a shortcut “weeknight-friendly” version of this soup that keeps all the flavor but takes less than 30 minutes to make. Do you want me to do that?