When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing like a bowl of steaming soup to warm you up. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or can barely boil water, these simple and satisfying soup recipes will make you feel like a culinary genius. Let’s dive in, spoon first!
1. Classic tomato soup
You can’t go wrong with this crowd-pleaser. All you need are ripe tomatoes, garlic, onions, and a splash of olive oil. Roast the tomatoes and garlic in the oven until they’re slightly charred (fancy word for burnt on purpose), then blend them with sautéed onions and a bit of vegetable stock. Add a touch of cream if you’re feeling indulgent. Serve with crusty bread for dipping, because let’s face it, soup without bread is like tea without biscuits.
2. Hearty lentil soup
For something a bit more filling, lentil soup is your go-to. It’s packed with protein and fibre, which basically means it’s healthy enough to justify that second slice of bread. Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery, then add red lentils, stock, and your favourite spices (cumin and paprika work wonders). Simmer until the lentils are soft and the house smells like you’ve been slaving away all day. Pro tip: top with a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavours.
3. Creamy mushroom soup
Mushroom soup has a way of making you feel like you’re dining in a posh country pub. Sauté a mix of mushrooms with onions and garlic until golden, then blend with vegetable stock and a dollop of cream (or coconut milk if you’re dairy-free). For extra flair, sprinkle some fresh thyme or drizzle a bit of truffle oil on top. It’s like luxury in a bowl—minus the hefty price tag.
4. Spicy sweet potato and coconut soup
This one’s for when you need a little heat to chase away the winter blues. Roast sweet potatoes until they’re caramelised and almost too pretty to blend (but blend them anyway). Sauté onions and garlic with a touch of curry paste, then mix in the roasted sweet potatoes, coconut milk, and stock. Blend until smooth and velvety. A handful of chopped coriander on top will make you look like a pro.
So there you have it—four soups to keep you cosy, full, and perhaps a tad smug about your kitchen skills. Which one will you try first?
