Broth For Colds
A soothing hot broth infused with ginger, cayenne, and ginseng, perfect for cold relief. Bright flavors and warmth support your immune system during illness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
- Add the chicken soup base, ginger, cayenne pepper, water chestnuts and their liquid, and optional ginseng tea.
- Simmer for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Drink 1 cup four times a day.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of water. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken soup base with a vegetable equivalent. Adjust the cayenne pepper for desired spiciness, or omit it if you prefer a milder taste. Instant ginseng tea is optional but can enhance the health benefits. Pair this broth with a light salad for a wholesome meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this broth hot in a mug or bowl, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a light salad, such as Hawaiian Summer Salad, for a more substantial meal. Enjoying this broth regularly can provide comfort during cold seasons.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover broth in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pour the broth into a saucepan and heat over medium until warmed through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe container, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to maintain flavor and nutrients.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broth For Colds contains roughly 129 calories, with 4g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2184mg per serving (95% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this broth ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this broth in advance. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days or can be frozen for longer storage. Just be sure to cool it down before refrigerating or freezing.
What can I substitute for chicken soup base?
If you don't have chicken soup base, you can use vegetable broth or a bouillon cube dissolved in water. This will still provide a savory depth to the broth while accommodating vegetarian diets.
Is this broth suitable for children?
Yes, this broth is generally suitable for children. However, you may want to reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a milder flavor. Always check for allergies to specific ingredients like water chestnuts before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).