Sniffle, sniffle! It’s that time of year when colds and the flu set in, and we all pull out our favorite home remedies. Everyone knows the value of drinking lots and lots of liquids when ill, and when I was a child, my mother always made a big pot of chicken and rice soup.

Yes, medical research has proven that chicken soup contains a number of substances — including an anti-inflammatory mechanism — that could ease the symptoms of upper-respiratory-tract infections like the common cold. 

No, I am not medically trained; therefore, I recommend that you consult with the doctor of your choice if you are suffering from either a bad cold or the flu. I do know, however, that chicken and rice soup is my home remedy for the common cold. Many of my friends prefer chicken and noodle soup, and that choice is good, too. 

I’m no expert, but one thing’s for sure: these soups, along with lots of liquids and rest, are definitely comforting when you’ve got the sniffles during these winter months.

Chicken and Rice or Noodle Soup

Ingredients

½ a chicken, skin removed

2 cans (10 ¾ ounces) chicken broth, plus more to add if necessary

1 soup can of water

1 cup uncooked regular long-grain white rice or

1 small package egg noodles

1 tablespoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Preparation

Boil chicken in water and chicken broth with salt and pepper until the chicken falls off the bone. Add additional salt or seasonings to suit your taste buds. Remove bones and set chicken aside to cool. When cool, remove any fat that might come to the surface.

Meanwhile, cook rice or noodles according to their package directions, drain and add to chicken and broth. If additional liquid is needed, add chicken broth. Warm together and serve.

From the scriptures

Almost all books in the Bible contain references to foods. Luke 4:4 says, “It is written, that man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.” Reading the Bible will supply you with spiritual food the same way that cooking and consuming food supplies your body with physical food.