In the heart of Poland, a culinary secret thrives. This soup, known as Polish Penicillin, tells tales of tradition. Each simmering pot whispers stories of family gatherings. The robust aroma draws you in, promising warmth and comfort.

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Ingredients like tender chicken, earthy root vegetables, and fragrant herbs dance harmoniously.

Every spoonful offers a symphony of flavors. Not just a dish; it’s a remedy – for the soul, the body, and cold winter nights.

Dive into this ancestral recipe and journey through Poland’s rich culinary landscape. Discover the magic of Polish Penicillin Soup today. Your taste buds will thank you.

What Is Polish Penicillin Soup Recipe?

Polish Penicillin Soup, traditionally known as “Rosół,” is a clear chicken broth cherished in Poland. Steeped in history, this soup combines chicken, root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, celery, and onions.

The herbs and spices meld together, creating a therapeutic aroma and taste. Often dubbed the “Polish grandma’s cure” for colds and flu, Rosół brings comfort and nutrition.

It’s a staple on Polish dining tables, celebrated for its soothing qualities and rich flavor.

History Of Polish Penicillin Soup Recipe

Polish Penicillin Soup, or “Rosół,” traces its roots to ancient Poland. Historically, families regarded it as a cherished remedy for ailments, earning its nickname “penicillin” for its restorative properties.

Crafted from humble ingredients, Rosół evolved through generations, integrating regional variations.

During cold winters or times of illness, it offered warmth and healing. Celebrations, especially weddings, also featured this clear broth, symbolizing blessings and unity.

Over time, Rosół has not only persisted as a health elixir but has also become a timeless emblem of Polish culinary heritage.

Interesting Facts About The Polish Penicillin Soup Recipe

Wedding Tradition: Often served at weddings, it’s believed to bring luck and prosperity to the newlyweds.
Culinary Cure: Many Poles consider it a natural remedy for colds and hangovers.
Serving Style: Typically accompanied by thin egg noodles or “kluski.”
Preparation: Some families simmer it for hours, even overnight, to extract deep flavors.
Spice Secrets: Some versions include allspice or juniper berries for an aromatic twist.
Sunday Staple: Traditionally enjoyed as a Sunday lunch dish.

What Makes The Polish Penicillin Soup Recipe Special?

Heritage: Deeply rooted in Polish tradition, it captures centuries of culinary history.
Healing Qualities: Esteemed for its therapeutic benefits against colds and ailments.
Simplicity: Crafted from basic ingredients, emphasizing pure, unadulterated flavors.
Emotional Comfort: Beyond its taste, it offers solace during challenging times.
Natural Collagen: Chicken bones release collagen, making the broth nutritious and rich.

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken gizzards	1 pound
Chicken hearts	½ pound
Homemade chicken broth	2 quarts
Onion (peeled and finely chopped)	1
Celery (finely chopped)	1 stick
Carrots (peeled, lengthwise cut, and thinly sliced)	2
Allspice berries (in a tea ball)	10 whole
Sea salt	To taste
Freshly ground black pepper	To taste
Cooked noodles	As required
Fresh parsley (finely chopped)	For garnishing

Ingredient Tips

Gizzards & Hearts: Ensure they are cleaned thoroughly, removing excess fat or membranes.
Homemade Broth: For a richer taste, simmer chicken bones for hours, extracting maximum flavor.
Onion: Using yellow or white onion yields a subtle, sweet flavor.
Celery: Fresh, crisp stalks are best; avoid wilted ones.
Carrots: Choose firm, bright-colored carrots for the best texture and flavor.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

Keto: Swap noodles for spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles. Ensure the broth is high-fat and low-carb.
Paleo: Use grain-free noodles like spiralized vegetables or sweet potato noodles. Avoid any processed additives in the broth.
Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free noodles, such as those made from rice or chickpeas.
Whole30: Skip the noodles entirely and add more vegetables. Ensure the broth has no sugars or additives.
Vegetarian: Omit chicken gizzards and hearts. Use a rich vegetable broth. Add mushrooms for an umami touch.
Vegan: Follow the vegetarian version and incorporate protein-rich elements like tofu or tempeh. Ensure the broth is entirely plant-based.

Recipe Directions

Clean gizzards and hearts, removing the yellow skin and blood clots. Slice gizzards.
In a saucepan, immerse gizzards and hearts in broth. Boil and skim off the scum.
Add onion, celery, carrots, and allspice. Simmer for 2 hours.
Season and serve over noodles, garnished with parsley.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

Beef Rosół: Use beef bones and meat instead of chicken for a richer taste.
Seafood Rosół: Incorporate fish and seafood for a marine twist.

Add-Ons

Bay Leaves: Introduce an aromatic depth.
Mushrooms: Add sliced button or wild mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Garlic: A clove or two for pungency.
Parsnips & Potatoes: Chunky vegetables make it heartier.

Toppings

Fresh Dill: Gives a refreshing touch.
Lemon Zest: Brightens the flavor profile.
Red Pepper Flakes: For those who desire a spicy kick.

Scaling The Recipe

Proportionality: Always maintain the ingredient ratios. If you’re doubling the recipe, double every ingredient. If halving, use half of each ingredient.
Cooking Vessel: When scaling up, ensure your pot or saucepan is large enough. For scaling down, a smaller pot is preferable for better flavor concentration.
Cooking Time: While scaling up, you might need more time for the soup to reach a boil or for flavors to meld, but not necessarily double the time. Conversely, when scaling down, check for doneness earlier.
Taste Test: Always taste as you go, especially when adjusting seasonings.
Adjust Liquids: When increasing, ensure all ingredients remain submerged, adding extra broth or water as needed. Reduce liquid proportionally for smaller batches.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

Fresh Parsley: Chopped fine, it introduces a new, herby touch.
Dill: Delicately sprinkled, it provides an aromatic, slightly tangy note.
Lemon Zest: Thin strips or grated zest brighten the dish with a citrusy hint.
Chives: Chopped or in longer segments, they add color and mild onion flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes: For those preferring a spicy undertone.
Cracked Black Pepper: A dash intensifies the warmth and aroma.

Can I Make Polish Penicillin Soup Recipe In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

Ideal for drawing out flavors over extended periods.
Place all ingredients in the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
The prolonged simmering enriches the broth’s depth.

Instant Pot

A time-saver for Rosół.
Use the sauté function to cook the onions and celery briefly, then add other ingredients.
Seal and set it on the soup/broth mode for 25-30 minutes.
After cooking, release pressure naturally.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

Store-Bought Broth

Convenience: Perfect for when you’re short on time.
Consistency: Offers a uniform taste every time.
Variety: Comes in low-sodium, organic, and other options.
Caution: Check labels for additives, preservatives, or high sodium content. Opt for brands with natural ingredients.

Homemade Broth

Flavor Depth: Slow simmering extracts flavors from bones and vegetables.
Control: Adjust salt, herbs, and ingredients to personal preference.
Nutrition: Contains natural collagen and nutrients without additives.
Economy: Utilize leftover chicken or vegetable scraps.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup?

Meat

Beef: Adds a robust flavor. Use bones and meaty chunks.
Pork: Tender cuts give a sweeter touch.

Fish

White Fish: Cod or haddock offers a delicate flavor.
Shellfish: Shrimps or mussels introduce a seafood twist.

Pasta

Rice Noodles: A gluten-free option.
Whole Wheat Pasta: For a hearty texture.

Vegetables

Potatoes: Chunky pieces make it heartier.
Mushrooms: Offer an earthy taste.
Greens: Spinach or kale boosts nutrition.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making The Recipe

Prepping Tips

Mise en Place: Organize and measure ingredients before starting.
Consistent Chopping: Ensure vegetables are uniformly cut for even cooking.
Fresh Herbs: Add delicate herbs like parsley or cilantro at the end to retain flavor.
Broth: When short on time, blend homemade broth with store-bought to enhance depth.

Cooking Time Tips

Low and Slow: Simmer gently to prevent overcooking and retain ingredient integrity.
Skimming: Regularly skim off impurities that rise to maintain clarity.
Tasting: Continually taste and adjust seasonings.
Resting: Allow soup to sit for a bit post-cooking; flavors meld and intensify.

Nutritional Values

Polish Penicillin Soup is more than just a comforting meal. It’s a bowl of wholesome goodness, packed with protein from chicken and essential nutrients from fresh vegetables.

The added noodles provide carbohydrates for energy, making it a well-rounded dish that nourishes both body and soul.

What Are The Total Calories In The Soup?

Considering the mentioned ingredients and their typical quantities, a rough estimate might range from 400-500 calories per serving, but this is a ballpark figure. For an accurate calorie count, you’d need to utilize nutrition calculation tools or software, inputting the exact amount of each ingredient.

Dietary Restrictions Of The Polish Penicillin Soup Recipe

Meat-Based: Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans due to chicken gizzards and hearts.
Gluten: If using regular noodles, it’s not gluten-free. Opt for gluten-free noodles for those with sensitivities.
Low-Carb: While the soup is relatively low-carb, noodles add carbohydrates. For keto or low-carb diets, omit or substitute noodles with zucchini noodles or shirataki.
Allergens: Ensure store-bought broth doesn’t contain common allergens like soy or dairy.
Whole30/Paleo: Replace noodles with veggie alternatives and ensure the broth is compliant.

Health Benefits Of The Polish Penicillin Soup Recipe

Rich in Collagen: Homemade broth from chicken bones provides collagen, benefiting skin, hair, and joint health.
Protein-Packed: Chicken gizzards and hearts are high in protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
Vitamin Boost: Vegetables like carrots and celery supply essential vitamins and minerals.
Immunity Support: Warm broths have traditionally been believed to help combat colds and flu.
Digestive Aid: The clear broth can be soothing for the digestive system.

Nutrition Table

How Can I Make Polish Penicillin Soup Recipe Lower In Sodium?

Broth Choice: Opt for a low-sodium or sodium-free store-bought chicken broth. If making homemade broth, refrain from adding salt.
Limit Salt: Use sea salt sparingly, adding only during the final tasting phase.
Spices & Herbs: Amplify flavors using herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme and spices such as black pepper, garlic, and bay leaves. They enhance taste without upping sodium.
Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your chicken gizzards and hearts aren’t pre-brined or salted.
Check Allspice: Ensure any spice blends used don’t contain added sodium.

How Can I Make Polish Penicillin Soup Recipe Lower In Sugar?

Natural Broth: Opt for homemade broth or choose store-bought versions without added sugars or flavor enhancers.
Fresh Veggies: Use fresh vegetables, avoiding pre-packaged options that might be soaked in sugar-rich solutions.
Herbs & Spices: Flavor your soup with natural herbs and spices rather than commercial seasoning blends, which may contain hidden sugars.
Monitor Ingredients: Always read labels if using packaged items to confirm that there are no added sugars.
Opt for Whole Foods: Ensure every ingredient, from meat to vegetables, is unprocessed.

How To Serve The Polish Penicillin Soup Recipe At Its Best?

Hot & Fresh: Always serve Rosół steaming. Warm soup bowls beforehand to keep it hot longer.
Presentation: Pour soup over freshly cooked noodles in each bowl. This retains the noodle texture.
Garnish: A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley adds color and flavor.
Accompaniments: Serve with crusty or Polish rye bread slices, allowing guests to sop up the flavorful broth.
Lemon Wedges: A slight squeeze can brighten up the soup.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Polish Penicillin Soup Recipe

Pierogi: These Polish dumplings, stuffed with potatoes, cheese, or meat, are a heartwarming match.
Sauerkraut Salad: A tangy side that offsets the soup’s richness.
Rye Bread: Dense and slightly sour, it pairs beautifully with the savory broth.
Cucumber Salad: Thinly sliced cucumbers in a dill and yogurt or sour cream dressing provide a cool contrast.
Potato Pancakes: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they add a delightful texture.

How Long Can We Store The Soup?

Refrigeration: Rosół can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: For more extended storage, pour the soup (minus the noodles) into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can last for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight when ready to consume. Reheat on the stovetop until steaming. If the soup has noodles, consider adding freshly cooked ones during reheating to avoid a mushy texture. Always reheat only once for optimal flavor and safety.

Can I Make The Soup In Advance?

Cooking: Prepare the soup a day before serving. This can even enhance flavors as they meld together.
Storing: Cool it quickly, then refrigerate in an airtight container.
Noodles: If included, cook them fresh on the day you serve to maintain the best texture.
Reheat: Warm the soup slowly on the stovetop, ensuring it reaches a simmer.
Garnish: Add fresh parsley and other garnishes just before serving for a vibrant presentation.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

Stew Starter: Add potatoes, additional meat, and herbs to transform the soup into a hearty stew.
Chicken Salad: Shred leftover gizzards and hearts, then mix with mayonnaise, celery, and herbs for a flavorful chicken salad.
Pasta Sauce: Thicken the soup with some cream and grated cheese, then toss it with pasta for a quick meal.
Rice Pilaf: Use the soup as a flavorful broth for cooking rice or grains.
Casserole Base: Use it as a moistening agent in casseroles or pot pies.

Special Tools/Equipment Needed

Large Stockpot or Dutch Oven: Essential for simmering the soup and accommodating all the ingredients.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: For precise cuts on meats and vegetables.
Cutting Board: Preferably two for meats and one for vegetables to avoid cross-contamination.
Tea Ball or Spice Bag: Convenient for infusing the allspice berries without scattering them in the soup.
Slotted Spoon or Fine Mesh Skimmer: Helps remove scum and impurities during boiling.
Ladle: For serving the soup and ensuring an even distribution of broth and ingredients.
Heat-resistant Bowls: Useful to separate ingredients or set aside skimmed impurities.
Tongs: Handy for handling the meat, especially when inspecting or cutting.
Measuring Spoons and Cups: For accurate ingredient portions, ensuring consistency in flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There A Particular Type Of Chicken That’s Best For Rosół?

Indeed, traditionally, older hens were chosen for Rosół as their meat is richer in flavor. However, they require a longer cooking time. Younger chickens can also be used but may offer a slightly lighter taste.

Do I Have To Use Both Chicken Gizzards And Hearts?

While the combination of gizzards and hearts is traditional and adds depth, you can opt for just one or even replace them with other chicken parts, such as wings or thighs, depending on preference.

Can I Include Other Spices Apart From Allspice Berries?

Yes, though allspice is characteristic of Rosół. Spices like bay leaves or peppercorns can also be added for depth and aroma.

How Can I Ensure My Rosół Has A Clear Broth?

Achieving a clear broth in Rosół requires skimming the impurities that rise to the surface during the initial boil. A gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil will also help maintain clarity.

Is There A Vegetarian Version Of Polish Penicillin Soup?

While the traditional Rosół is meat-based, a vegetarian version can be created using a rich vegetable broth, hearty root vegetables, and mushrooms for umami. However, this variation would be a departure from the classic recipe.

Top Nutritious Polish Penicillin Soup Recipe To Revive Your Wellness

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Recipe by Hanna Barnes Course: Soup Recipes

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

hours

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

The Polish Penicillin Soup, known as Rosół, is a traditional Polish broth with chicken gizzards, hearts, and aromatic vegetables. Revered for its comforting properties, this clear soup is served over noodles and garnished with parsley, making it both a culinary delight and a cherished remedy.

Ingredients

Chicken gizzards
Chicken hearts
Homemade chicken broth
Onion (peeled and finely chopped)
Celery (finely chopped)
Carrots (peeled, lengthwise cut, and thinly sliced)
Allspice berries (in a tea ball)
Sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Cooked noodles
Fresh parsley (finely chopped)

Step-By-Step Directions

Preparation Steps
Begin by washing the gizzards and hearts thoroughly.
Inspect the gizzards for yellow, wrinkly skin and gently peel it off.
Squeeze out blood clots from the hearts.
Divide the gizzards into 2 or 3 sections, keeping the hearts whole.
Cooking
Transfer the cleaned gizzards and hearts to a spacious saucepan.
Pour in the chicken broth, submerging them by 2-3 inches. If needed, add water.
Over medium heat, let the mixture come to a boil. As scum surfaces, delicately skim it off using a slotted spoon or strainer.
Blending
Introduce the finely chopped onion, sliced celery, carrot pieces, and encased allspice berries into the saucepan.
Allow the mix to simmer gently, then reduce the heat. Position the lid slightly askew and let simmer for about 2 hours.
Final Touches
Test the gizzards for tenderness. They should be soft and well-cooked.
Season the soup with desired amounts of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Serving
In separate bowls, layout prepared noodles as per package instructions. Ladle the soup over the noodles.
As a crowning touch, sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley over each serving.
Additional Options
Consider adding a bay leaf or two during the simmering process for a spicy kick. If you desire more veggies, chunks of parsnips or potatoes can also be added.

Recipe Video

https://youtu.be/_ROy82Z4MG0?si=lF5KkI4tiXOeaAKh

Rosół. Polish Penicillin. Polish Chicken Soup (https://youtu.be/_ROy82Z4MG0?si=lF5KkI4tiXOeaAKh)

Notes

Using an old hen traditionally yields a richer flavor.
A gentle simmer is critical to achieving a clear broth.
Noodles can be switched out for rice or other grains for a variation.
For an even more aromatic broth, consider adding bay leaves or peppercorns.
Rosół is best enjoyed hot and fresh but also freezes well for future meals.

Author
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Hanna Barnes

Hey everyone, my name is Hanna, and I am a writer here at Soup Chick! I came across Lana’s website a few years back, and it reignited my love for making homemade broths and soups that wouldn’t break the bank, and would help me get all of my veggies in!

Here at SoupChick.com, I can offer you a range of different recipes to try, from basic broths, to making your own slow cooker chicken tortilla soup (trust me on this one- it is divine).

I hope that you enjoy making your own as much as I love finding new recipes for you!