Build Your Own Soup
One of my favorite things about making soup is that you can use up leftover ingredients, and you don’t really need to follow a recipe. Here’s your chance to play chef and mix and match ingredients to build a soup that’s just right for you. Start with a base, choose your veggies, add a protein, and don’t forget the finishing touches! Use this guide for inspiration:
1. Choose Your Base:
Chicken broth or Vegetable broth
Creamy base (think coconut milk, heavy cream, or half-and-half)
Tomato base (crushed tomatoes or tomato juice)
2. Pick Your Veggies:
Carrots, celery, onions (classic trio)
Butternut squash or sweet potatoes
Zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms
Kale, spinach, or chard (get those greens in!)
3. Deglaze the Pot:
After sautéing your veggies, add a splash of liquid (such as broth, wine, apple cider, or a vinegar) to the hot pan.
Use a wooden spoon to scrape up the flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom, incorporating them into your soup base for added depth of flavor.
4. Add a Protein:
Shredded rotisserie chicken
Italian sausage or turkey sausage
Tofu or tempeh for a veggie option
Beans or lentils (chickpeas, cannellini, black beans)
5. Spice it Up:
Garlic, ginger, or fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, cilantro)
Smoked paprika, cumin, or curry powder
A dash of chili flakes or cayenne for heat
6. Don’t Forget the Toppings!
Croutons, crispy chickpeas, or toasted nuts
A swirl of pesto, sour cream, or olive oil
Shredded cheese (cheddar, parmesan, or mozzarella)
Fresh herbs, green onions, or a squeeze of lemon
