“Feel Better” Soup

Adapted from the recipe “GARLIC CHICKEN SOUP FOR COLDS AND COUGHS” by Dr. Irwin Ziment 
(From an old newspaper article by Mel Walsh about the book “Food Pharmacy” by Jean Carper.)
This is the soup I have made for my family whenever any of us are suffering from a cold or upset stomach.  If a family member is suffering from a cold, then I will add rice, veggies, and chicken or turkey meat to the recipe.  If they have an upset stomach, then I will leave the soup mostly as a broth.  It is best to use homemade chicken stock, if you have it.  If not, then use a high-quality, low-sodium store-bought brand.
Note: Don’t worry if you don’t have all the ingredients.  Just do the best you can with what you have.
28 oz                      chicken broth (homemade is best)
1 bulb                    garlic cloves, peeled and chopped
5 sprigs                 parsley, minced (curly or flat-leaf)
6 sprigs                 cilantro, minced
1 tsp                      lemon pepper
1 tsp                      minced mint leaves
1 tsp                      minced basil (or about 1/2 tsp dry basil)
1 tsp                      curry powder
½ tsp                     turmeric powder
½-2 cups              diced onion, carrots, celery (optional)
½-1 cup                cooked rice (optional)
A few drops       tabasco sauce
                                salt, to taste.
 
Directions:
Put the broth in a large pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.  Add the garlic and vegetables, if desired, reduce the heat and simmer with the lid on for 10 minutes or so.  Add the parsley, cilantro and spices.  Add the cooked rice.  Cover and simmer gently for another 10-15 minutes.  Turn off the heat and add a few drops of tabasco sauce and salt, to taste.