Soup is one of the most comforting foods during cold winter nights. A hot bowl of soup not only warms you up from the inside out but also fills your home with an inviting aroma. Here are 10 soup recipes perfect for chilly winter evenings.
A classic chicken noodle soup is always a good option. Homemade chicken stock provides a rich base for egg noodles, shredded chicken, carrots and celery. The familiar combination of ingredients is soothing and nostalgic. For extra nutrition, add peas, corn and leafy greens like spinach or kale.
Tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches are a perfect pairing. Use canned crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth and Italian seasoning to make a quick batch of tomato soup. The tart and creamy soup contrasts nicely with the gooey grilled cheese.
Potato soup is thick, creamy and satisfying. Dice russet potatoes and simmer in broth with onions, garlic, bay leaves and thyme. For extra creaminess, puree some of the potatoes or stir in milk and cream. Top your bowl with crispy bacon, cheese, chives and cracked black pepper.
Minestrone soup is a hearty Italian classic, packed with beans, pasta and vegetables. A tomato base provides tangy flavor to the broth, which is filled with carrots, celery, zucchini, kidney beans and ditalini pasta. Serve with parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.
Lentil soup is protein-packed, healthy and budget-friendly. Simmer brown lentils in broth with aromatics like carrots, celery and onions. Season with curry spices, chili peppers or Italian herbs for extra flavor. Lentil soup is deeply satisfying on its own but also pairs well with a simple salad.
Butternut squash soup is a creamy blend of squash, apples and warming spices. Roast butternut squash, apples, shallots and garlic, then blend until smooth and creamy. Season with nutmeg, cinnamon, sage and thyme. For a richer soup, stir in coconut milk or cream. Garnish with toasted pepitas, fried sage leaves or pomegranate seeds.
Mushroom barley soup features tender mushrooms and chewy barley in a savory broth. Shiitake, cremini and porcini mushrooms provide lots of flavor. Simmer with barley, onions and herbs until the barley is plump and tender. The earthy, umami-packed soup is light yet satisfying.
Beef and barley soup with root vegetables is a rib-sticking meal in a bowl. Chuck roast, barley, carrots, parsnips and turnips simmer for hours in a broth flavored with thyme, parsley and red wine. The long cooking time results in a rich and complex flavor. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the broth.
Kale and white bean soup is healthy, hearty and Mediterranean-inspired. Cannellini beans and kale are simmered in a broth flavored with rosemary, garlic and crushed red pepper. The spicy and savory soup is high in fiber, protein and iron. Serve with parmesan garlic bread.
Tortilla soup is a spicy Mexican soup topped with fried tortilla strips, avocado, cheese, cilantro and lime. Simmer chili peppers, tomatoes, garlic and spices to make a bold broth. Add shredded chicken and black beans, then top generously with crunchy garnishes for a hearty and balanced meal. The mix of flavors and textures make this soup addictive.