Description
The House Special Soup is a comforting blend of hearty proteins, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, simmered to perfection. This versatile recipe allows you to mix and match ingredients to create a rich and flavorful soup tailored to your taste. Ideal for chilly evenings or as a crowd-pleasing starter.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 8 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 lb boneless chicken (or beef/pork), cubed (optional)
- 1 cup cooked shrimp (optional)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 2 cups leafy greens (spinach, kale, or bok choy)
- 1 cup cooked noodles or rice (optional)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish
Instructions
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Prep your ingredients: Wash and chop all vegetables. If using raw protein like chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces.
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
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Add the stock and protein: Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock. Add the chicken, beef, or pork cubes (if using). Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, skimming off any foam or impurities.
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Add the vegetables: Stir in the corn, green beans, and leafy greens. Simmer for another 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
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Incorporate optional ingredients: If using cooked shrimp, noodles, or rice, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking to warm through. Stir in the soy sauce, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings to taste.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Notes
- Make it your own: This soup is endlessly adaptable—add your favorite seasonal vegetables, proteins, or grains.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Skip the meat and use vegetable stock, tofu, or legumes like chickpeas or lentils for protein.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Global
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: House Special Soup, hearty soup, easy soup recipe, customizable soup, vegetable soup