This soup can be made ahead, leaving out the lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh herbs, and frozen for later use. Let the soup cool, then divide among freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw soup in the refrigerator overnight or run the frozen container under hot water to loosen. Transfer soup to a saucepan and cook, covered, over medium heat until heated through, about 30 minutes. Alternatively, microwave soup in 2-minute increments until heated through. Stir in the lemon zest and juice and chopped herbs before serving.
1 (4- to 5-lb.) whole chicken, giblets removed and discarded
Salt and pepper
2 yellow onions, chopped
3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
3 celery stalks, chopped
4 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
1 (2") knob ginger, peeled and minced
2 dried bay leaves
1 tsp. ground turmeric
1 cup long-grain brown or wild rice
3 cups water
3 cups coarsely chopped curly kale
Zest and juice from 1 lemon, for serving
Chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley, dill, or mint, for serving