Unlike the neighborhood squirrel that I've adopted as my own 'pet', I don't have the urge to run around outside and look for food when the wind chill makes it feel like 4 degrees. So, instead, I make soup with the few random ingredients I do have and give some of the unused veggies to Mr. Squirrel. I don't have an official name for him yet, but this is what he looks like after a few meals on my porch. :)
On a random note, thanks so much to those nice folks who nominated me for awards, both in 2008/2009 :). I'm sorry I'm not very good at keeping up with giving them away; you all make it so tough, too many delicious blogs to choose from, seriously. Just look at how long my list of blog links is :)! I promise I will get to it before 2010 ;0)!
Kitchen notes for Hearty Root Vegetable Chicken Noodle Soup
Cook poultry and meat to a safe internal temperature and rest briefly before slicing so juices redistribute. Pan sauces reduce quickly once you add wine, stock, or fruit glaze — taste for salt at the end, especially if bacon or broth already contributed sodium.
Build flavour in layers: brown aromatics, simmer gently, and adjust salt and acid right before serving. Soups and stews often taste better the next day; cool leftovers promptly and reheat until steaming hot.
Weekend breakfasts reward mise en place — measure dry mixes the night before when you can. Keep cooked items warm in a low oven while you finish the rest of the plate so everything hits the table together.
Storage: wrap tightly once cool. Most baked goods freeze well for up to a month; thaw at room temperature, then refresh briefly in a warm oven if you want a just-baked edge.
Serving ideas: for leftovers of Hearty Root Vegetable Chicken Noodle Soup, rethink the plate — toast slices, fold into a lunchbox, or warm gently and top with yoghurt or a fried egg when the recipe style allows.
Food safety reminder: refrigerate perishable fillings promptly, and when reheating leftovers, bring them to a steaming hot temperature throughout.
Further reading: FDA safe food handling advice.