Soup for Colds, Step 2: The Process

Now add the cold-fighters. To this basic stock, you are now going to add one or more ingredients that we know will help you fight off colds.

Here’s the easy way: Choose your favorite flavors (or try something new), and dump them all in.

• Onions and leeks — rough chop.
• Carrots — rough chop, no need to peel
• Garlic — Smash individual cloves, no need to peel or dice.
• Peppercorns — crush.
• Hot chili peppers — Rough chop; remove seeds and white membranes for mild, leave in for spicy.
• Ginger — slice into rounds, smash, no need to peel. 
• Rosemary or oregano — as is.

Simmer for about half an hour, occasionally pressing the vegetables with a spoon or potato masher; then strain out and discard the solids.