Global Soups to Warm Your Soul This Winter
With winter upon us, there’s nothing quite like a warm and comforting bowl of soup to keep us cozy and satisfied. While some may turn to traditional favorites like chicken noodle or tomato soup, why not broaden your horizons and try some global soups that are sure to warm your soul? From hearty stews to spicy broths, these soups from around the world are packed with unique flavors and ingredients that will take your taste buds on a journey. So snuggle up and get ready to explore some delicious global soups to warm your soul this winter.
French Onion Soup
Originating from France, this classic soup is a staple in French cuisine. Made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and topped with cheesy bread, French onion soup is a rich and hearty dish that will warm you up on the coldest of days. The sweetness of the onions combined with the savory broth and gooey cheese makes this soup a crowd-pleaser.
Recipe:
– Slice 4 large onions and cook them in a pot with 4 tablespoons of butter until caramelized.
– Add 4 cups of beef broth and 1 cup of red wine to the pot and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
– Meanwhile, slice a baguette into 1-inch thick slices and toast them in the oven.
– Ladle the soup into oven-proof bowls and place a slice of toasted bread on top.
– Sprinkle shredded gruyere cheese on top of the bread and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
– Serve hot and enjoy!
Tom Kha Gai
Hailing from Thailand, this spicy and fragrant soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Its name translates to “chicken galangal soup,” which refers to the two main ingredients used in this dish. Galangal, a root similar to ginger, gives the soup its distinct flavor, while chili peppers add a kick of heat. The addition of coconut milk makes this soup creamy and comforting.
Recipe:
– In a pot, heat 4 cups of chicken broth and 1 can of coconut milk.
– Add 1 stalk of lemongrass, 2 slices of galangal root, and 4 kaffir lime leaves to the pot.
– Simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
– Add 1 pound of sliced chicken breast, 1 cup of sliced mushrooms, and 2 tablespoons of fish sauce to the pot.
– Let it simmer for another 10 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
– Add 1-2 tablespoons of lime juice and red pepper flakes to taste.
– Remove the lemongrass stalk and lime leaves before serving.
Miso Soup
A staple in Japanese cuisine, miso soup is a simple yet satisfying soup that will keep you warm and healthy this winter. Made with fermented soybean paste, tofu, and seaweed, this soup is packed with umami flavors and nutrients. It is commonly served as a side dish with Japanese meals, but can easily be made into a main course by adding more ingredients.
Recipe:
– In a pot, combine 6 cups of water and 2 tablespoons of dashi powder (Japanese fish and seaweed stock).
– Add 1 block of sliced tofu and let it simmer for a few minutes.
– In a separate bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of miso paste with ½ cup of hot water until smooth.
– Add the miso paste to the pot and stir until well combined.
– Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms, 1 cup of chopped kale, and 1 cup of cooked noodles to the pot (optional).
– Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are cooked.
– Serve hot and garnish with chopped green onions and seaweed (optional).
Gazpacho
This cold soup from Spain may seem out of place on a list of winter soups, but it’s actually perfect for those who prefer a lighter and refreshing meal. Made with tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and other fresh ingredients, gazpacho is a chilled soup that is perfect for warmer winter days. Its vibrant colors and zesty flavors will surely lift your spirits and warm your soul.
Recipe:
– In a blender, combine 4 large ripe tomatoes, 1 cucumber, 1 red bell pepper, 1 small onion, and 2 cloves of garlic.
– Add ¼ cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, and ½ teaspoon of salt to the blender.
– Blend until smooth, adding water to achieve your desired consistency.
– Chill the soup in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.
– Serve with your favorite toppings, such as croutons, diced vegetables, or fresh herbs.
Pho
Hailing from Vietnam, this noodle soup is a beloved comfort food with a delicious broth that will warm your soul. It is made with rice noodles, herbs, and a flavorful broth containing spices like star anise and cinnamon. Its customizable nature allows you to add your choice of meat (usually beef or chicken) and toppings such as bean sprouts, lime, and chili peppers.
Recipe:
– In a pot, combine 4 cups of beef broth, 2 cinnamon sticks, 2 star anise, 1 small onion (halved), and 1-inch piece of ginger (halved).
– Bring to a boil and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
– Meanwhile, cook 8 ounces of rice noodles according to package instructions.
– Thinly slice 1 pound of beef (can use your choice of protein) and set aside.
– Strain the broth and discard the solids. Add the beef slices to the broth and let it cook for 2-3 minutes.
– In a bowl, place a handful of cooked rice noodles and top with the broth and beef.
– Add toppings such as bean sprouts, basil, lime, and chili peppers to your liking.
Now that you have some delicious global soups to warm your soul, you can bring some variety to your winter meals. Whether you prefer a hearty and comforting soup or a light and refreshing one, these global soups are sure to hit the spot. So get cooking and enjoy these flavorful and soul-warming dishes this winter!
