Fall and winter are beloved for many reasons. But if you’re a soup person, then these seasons give you even more reasons to celebrate! Here are seven things a soup lover should have on hand at all times so they can make scrumptious soups whenever they please.
Good Broth or Stock
This won’t be in your actual pantry if you’re making it from scratch, but either way, it’s a must for making delicious soups. Have a few different kinds, like chicken, beef, and vegetable broth. If you’re going store-bought, opt for low-sodium options so you can adjust the seasonings yourself.
Canned Tomatoes
Canned tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can elevate the flavor of your soups. They provide acidity, sweetness, and a vibrant color, making them a pantry staple for soup season. There’s multiple kinds, so make sure to have one of each since they all bring something to the table. Use a pinch of sugar to balance out the intense acidity that canned tomatoes can sometimes have.
Beans
Legumes and beans are excellent sources of protein and fiber, making them perfect for hearty soups. They add substance and nutrition, transforming a simple broth into the quintessential winter weekday meal. You can even blend your legumes into the soup as a way to make it creamy without adding a lick of dairy.
Pasta and Grains
Adding grains or pasta to your soups can make them more filling and satisfying. They provide texture, nutrition (depending on what it is), and can help stretch a recipe to serve more people. Like with other items on our list, stock a variety so you have options when you’re ready to make soup. Just remember to cook pasta and grains separately so they maintain their texture and don’t get mushy.
Seasonings and Aromatics
Herbs and spices are an obvious must for making anything, including soup. Fresh herbs are nice too, but dried herbs can work equally well. You should also keep onions, garlic, carrots, and celery on hand so you can form the base of many classic soups with ease. Saute your aromatics in butter or olive oil before you build the rest of your soup so they have time to release those incredible flavors.
Canned or Frozen Veggies
Stock up on canned vegetables like corn or diced carrots. Other vegetables, like spinach, are much better when bought frozen. You can add them for fast color and nutrients while stretching the recipe further. If you’re worried about excess sodium from your canned goods, try rinsing them first before adding them.
Dairy Options
Most creamy soups have a splash of dairy in them. Dairy alternatives also work well in some situations and are more shelf stable. Another vegan creamy option is coconut milk. It has a distinct flavor, but it’s significantly better at making something velvety smooth. Otherwise, keeping heavy cream or half-and-half in your fridge is the easiest way to get that special texture. Remember to add it at the end of cooking so it doesn’t curdle.
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