When you’re feeling under the weather, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to lift your spirits. As the old adage goes, “Chicken Soup” – but we all know that not just any chicken soup will do. We’ve gathered 18 of our favorite soup recipes to help you nurse yourself back to health on those dreaded sick days.
From classic comfort foods like Chicken Noodle Soup with Garlic and Ginger, to international flavors like Moroccan Harira Soup with Chickpeas, these soothing soups are sure to hit the spot. Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or hearty and filling, we’ve got a recipe that’s just right.
Chicken Noodle Soup with Garlic and Ginger
This comforting soup is a perfect remedy for when you’re feeling under the weather. With the added benefits of garlic and ginger, it’s not only delicious but also packed with immunity-boosting properties.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the garlic and ginger in a little bit of oil until fragrant.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the carrots, celery, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Add the cooked noodles to the soup and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turmeric Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk
Turmeric Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk Recipe
This vibrant and comforting soup is a perfect blend of Indian spices, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious lentils. A delightful twist on traditional lentil soups, this recipe combines the benefits of turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties with the richness of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Classic Miso Soup with Tofu and Wakame
Savor the rich flavors of Japan’s beloved comfort food with this simple and satisfying miso soup recipe, featuring tender tofu and wakame seaweed.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1/4 cup cubed firm tofu
– 1/2 cup sliced wakame seaweed
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine dashi broth (or vegetable broth) and miso paste. Whisk until smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add cubed tofu and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in sliced wakame seaweed and cook for an additional minute.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced green onion.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Thai Tom Yum Soup
This classic Thai soup is a flavorful and spicy delight that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich aroma of lemongrass, lime leaves, and chilies, this recipe will transport your taste buds to the streets of Bangkok.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4-6 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 lemongrass stalks, bruised and chopped
– 2 kaffir lime leaves
– 1/2 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add chilies, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves; sauté until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Pour in broth and water; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until mushrooms are tender.
5. Stir in fish sauce and lime juice; season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Potato Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of roasted garlic and potato soup, perfect for a cozy night in. This creamy soup is infused with the rich flavor of roasted garlic and the earthy sweetness of potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion in remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil until softened.
4. Add roasted garlic cloves to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
5. Add broth, roasted potatoes, and heavy cream (if using) to the pot. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until soup is heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Golden Turmeric Chicken Soup
This vibrant and comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors, with the warmth of turmeric and the richness of chicken. A pinch of golden goodness that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and garlic in a little oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add turmeric, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in heavy cream (if using) and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetable Broth with Ginger and Lemongrass
This aromatic broth is a perfect base for soups, sauces, or simply enjoyed on its own as a soothing drink. The combination of ginger and lemongrass adds depth and warmth to the vegetables, creating a deliciously comforting brew.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 4 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, zucchini, bell peppers)
– 8 cups water
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and lemongrass; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Strain broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or container.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef Bone Broth with Herbs
Elevate your cooking routine with this simple yet nutritious beef bone broth infused with fresh herbs. This rich and flavorful broth is perfect for soups, sauces, or a warm pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef bones (oxtail, short ribs, or neck bones)
– 4 cups water
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 sprig fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the beef bones in the oven for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, combine roasted bones, water, onion, garlic, carrot, celery, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 12-24 hours.
5. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or containers. Discard solids.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-24 hours
Moroccan Harira Soup with Chickpeas
Harira soup is a traditional Moroccan dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting meal during the cold winter months. This recipe adds protein-rich chickpeas to create a hearty and flavorful soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in chickpeas, broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Creamy Butternut Squash Soup with Sage
This velvety soup combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the earthy flavor of sage, perfect for a cozy fall evening. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with toasted sage leaves and crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 teaspoons dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the squash for 45 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
5. Add roasted squash, chicken broth, heavy cream, butter, and sage to the pot.
6. Bring to a simmer and puree with an immersion blender or regular blender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Greek Avgolemono Soup (Lemon Chicken Soup)
Avgolemono soup is a classic Greek comfort food, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines chicken broth, lemon juice, eggs, and rice to create a nourishing and comforting soup.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 large egg yolks
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add cooked rice, chicken, and salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks. Gradually add 1/4 cup of the hot soup broth to the eggs, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Return the egg mixture to the pot and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Tortilla Soup with Avocado
Warm up with this flavorful and comforting soup that combines the richness of chicken broth, the crunch of tortilla chips, and the creaminess of avocado. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
2. Add chicken, broth, bell pepper, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes.
4. Add tortilla pieces and cook 5 minutes or until they start to soften.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, topped with diced avocado, cilantro leaves, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vietnamese Pho with Rice Noodles
Experience the bold flavors of Vietnam with this classic pho recipe featuring rice noodles and a rich beef broth. A comforting and aromatic dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef bones (preferably oxtail or beef neck bones)
– 2 pounds beef brisket or chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Fresh herbs (basil, mint, cilantro), chopped
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine beef bones and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 1 hour.
2. Add sliced beef, fish sauce, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and onion to the pot. Simmer for another 30 minutes.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Assemble pho by placing noodles in a bowl, then adding slices of beef and hot broth. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including simmering time)
French Onion Soup with Thyme
This recipe is a twist on the classic French Onion Soup, adding a hint of thyme to elevate the flavor profile. A simple yet elegant soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 6 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 4 slices baguette, toasted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20 minutes).
2. Add thyme and cook for 1 minute.
3. If using wine, add it to the pan and cook until reduced by half (about 5 minutes).
4. Add beef broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Preheat broiler.
6. Ladle soup into oven-proof bowls, topping each with toasted baguette slice and grated Gruyère cheese.
7. Broil until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Carrot Ginger Soup with Coconut
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of carrots, the spicy warmth of ginger, and the richness of coconut milk to create a velvety smooth soup that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chopped fresh carrots (about 8-10 medium-sized)
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the chopped carrots, vegetable broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
6. Stir in the coconut milk and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Minestrone Soup with Pasta and Beans
Minestrone soup is a classic Italian dish that’s both comforting and nutritious. This recipe combines pasta, beans, and vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni, ditalini)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little water until tender.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, kidney beans, pasta, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hot and Sour Soup with Mushrooms
This recipe combines the bold flavors of hot peppers and soy sauce with the earthy richness of mushrooms, creating a hearty and comforting soup perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as sriracha)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in broth, water, soy sauce, hot sauce, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Ramen Soup with Soft-Boiled Egg and Greens
A comforting bowl of Japanese-inspired goodness, packed with rich flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken or pork broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ramen noodles
– 2 soft-boiled eggs, halved
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as bean sprouts, bok choy, and scallions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, sesame oil, or pickled ginger for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add the broth and bring to a boil. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the soft-boiled eggs by simmering them in boiling water for 6-7 minutes.
4. Assemble the bowls: place cooked noodles in each bowl, then add sliced greens, soft-boiled egg halves, and a spoonful of broth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add any desired additional flavors (soy sauce, sesame oil, or pickled ginger).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Feel better fast with these 18 comforting soup recipes, perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather. From classic chicken noodle soup to global flavors like Moroccan harira and Vietnamese pho, there’s something to soothe your soul. Try golden turmeric chicken soup, creamy butternut squash soup, or spicy Thai tom yum soup to ease your symptoms and warm your heart. Whether you’re craving a clear broth or a hearty stew, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.
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