Easy Homemade Soup Recipe

When the weather turns chilly or you’re simply in need of a comforting dish, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of homemade soup. Soup is not only nourishing, but it also has this magical ability to warm your soul, filling your kitchen with tantalizing aromas that beckon you to come closer. The beauty of homemade soup lies not only in its depth of flavor but also in its versatility. You can make it as simple or as complex as you like, tailoring it to your preferences and what’s available in your pantry.

This easy homemade soup recipe is all about getting back to basics while still creating a hearty, flavorful dish. In the following sections, we’ll dive deep into the ingredients you’ll need, how to bring them all together, and tips to elevate your soup-making game.

This is a straightforward, yet incredibly satisfying soup that combines fresh vegetables, a savory broth, and comforting seasonings. Whether you’re new to soup-making or a seasoned pro, this recipe will be a breeze. You can make it in a matter of minutes, and it will simmer to perfection while you take care of other things around the house.

Ingredients Needed

For this simple homemade soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Olive Oil (or your preferred cooking oil) – 2 tablespoons

Olive oil provides a rich base for sautéing the vegetables and enhances the overall flavor of the soup. You could also use butter or ghee if you prefer a different kind of fat.
Onion – 1 large, chopped

Onions are essential for building flavor right from the start. They’ll soften and caramelize slightly as they cook, adding sweetness and depth.
Carrots – 2 medium, peeled and chopped

Carrots bring a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the soup, which balances out the savory flavors.
Celery – 2 stalks, chopped

Celery adds a mild, slightly peppery flavor and crunch to your soup, rounding out the texture profile.
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced

Garlic is an essential ingredient that elevates any soup. It brings a warm, aromatic note to the dish.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth – 4 cups

The broth is the soul of any soup. Vegetable or chicken broth will provide the liquid base and set the tone for the overall flavor.
Potatoes – 2 medium, peeled and cubed

Potatoes give the soup body and help thicken it. Plus, they absorb the flavors of the broth, making every spoonful comforting.
Diced Tomatoes – 1 can (14.5 oz)

Tomatoes add acidity and balance to the soup, bringing brightness to the dish.
Bay Leaves – 2 leaves

Bay leaves contribute a subtle, earthy flavor. Be sure to remove them before serving as they aren’t edible.
Thyme – 1 teaspoon (dried) or 1 tablespoon (fresh)

Thyme is an aromatic herb that complements the vegetables and broth beautifully.
Salt and Pepper – To taste

These basic seasonings are crucial to enhance the overall flavor and bring everything together.
Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch.

Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to bring all of these ingredients together into a delicious, steaming pot of homemade soup:

Sauté The Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Stir occasionally, letting them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and the onions become translucent.
Add Garlic And Seasonings

Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaves. Let them cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrance.
Pour In Broth And Tomatoes

Add the vegetable (or chicken) broth and the diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir everything together. Bring the soup to a simmer.
Cook The Potatoes

Once the soup reaches a simmer, add the cubed potatoes. Let the soup cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Season And Adjust

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. If you like your soup to be more flavorful, add more herbs or a splash of vinegar for acidity.
Serve And Garnish

Once the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together, remove the soup from heat. Ladle it into bowls, and if desired, garnish with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, or a dollop of sour cream.

Ingredient Insights

Onions: They are a powerhouse when it comes to building flavor. Raw onions may be sharp, but when cooked, they turn sweet and savory. Whether you’re using yellow, white, or red onions, each variety brings a different nuance to the flavor profile.
Carrots: Carrots are rich in beta carotene and other antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to any soup. They also give a vibrant color and natural sweetness that balances out more savory ingredients.
Celery: Celery is often used as part of a flavor base for soups and stocks. It’s low in calories but high in water content, which helps to keep the soup light and refreshing.
Potatoes: Potatoes are not only a filling addition, but they also have a starchy quality that helps thicken the soup. Russet potatoes work best for a creamy texture, while Yukon Golds provide a buttery taste.
Tomatoes: The acidity of tomatoes cuts through the richness of the broth and vegetables, balancing out the flavor. They also add a touch of sweetness and tang.
Herbs: Thyme and bay leaves are classic herbs in soups. Thyme has a subtle earthy flavor, while bay leaves infuse the soup with a slightly floral, herbal aroma.

Expert Tips

Prep Ahead: You can chop all your vegetables the night before. This will save time on the day you plan to make the soup and streamline the cooking process.
Layer Flavors: Sautéing your vegetables in oil (or butter) before adding the broth is crucial. This step allows the flavors to develop fully. Never skip it!
Customize the Broth: If you’re aiming for a richer soup, opt for a high-quality chicken broth, or you could even use homemade broth if you have some on hand.
Simmer Slowly: Let your soup simmer slowly, as this is when the flavors truly deepen and meld together. Patience here is key!
Leftovers: Soup usually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to sit and develop. Make extra and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Recipe Variations

Creamy Soup: For a creamy version, blend the soup after it’s finished cooking. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender. You can also add a splash of cream or coconut milk for extra richness.
Add Protein: For more substance, you could add cooked chicken, sausage, or beans to the soup. This will make it more of a meal rather than just a side dish.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup for a spicy kick. This will contrast nicely with the sweetness of the carrots and onions.
Vegetarian/Vegan: To make this soup vegetarian or vegan, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and omit any dairy garnishes like Parmesan or sour cream.
Herb Infusion: If you’re a fan of fresh herbs, feel free to add some basil, rosemary, or oregano for a deeper flavor profile. Fresh herbs can be added towards the end of cooking to maintain their vibrant flavor.

Final Words

This easy homemade soup is one of those timeless dishes that everyone should have in their recipe arsenal. It’s simple, hearty, and comforting, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend lunch. The best part? It’s so customizable to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you like your soup creamy, loaded with vegetables, or with a bit of heat, there’s no wrong way to enjoy it.

Easy Homemade Soup Recipe