Picture this: a cold evening, you’ve had a long day, and you’re craving something warm and comforting. But the last thing you want to do is spend hours slaving over a hot stove. That’s where a Dry Soup Mix in a Jar comes to the rescue! Not only does it make life easier, but it’s also a fantastic way to have a homemade, hearty meal at the ready for when you need it the most.
Dry soup mixes are convenient, versatile, and can be a life-saver for busy people or those looking to cut down on processed foods. With a few simple ingredients, you can make your own version that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition. The best part? You can customize the recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs.
Dry Soup Mix In A Jar Recipe
Here’s how you can create a delicious, homemade dry soup mix in a jar. This recipe is easy, quick to assemble, and the perfect solution for a meal on-the-go. Plus, it makes a thoughtful gift if you’re looking for something unique and homemade to give to loved ones!
Ingredients Needed
For the perfect dry soup mix, you don’t need a long list of hard-to-find items. You can assemble most of the ingredients with pantry staples, and they’ll last a long time on the shelf. Here’s what you’ll need:
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1 Cup Dried Split Peas
These provide the base for your soup, offering a hearty texture and earthy flavor. They also pack in some healthy protein and fiber.
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1/2 Cup Dried Lentils
Lentils add another layer of protein and help thicken the soup, giving it that nice, satisfying texture.
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1/2 Cup Dried Barley
Barley is a great addition because it adds bulk, is full of fiber, and has a mild, nutty flavor. It’s perfect for soups.
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1/4 Cup Dehydrated Carrots
These are your go-to vegetable component. They add a slightly sweet flavor and vibrant color to the mix. Plus, dehydrated carrots last a long time.
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1/4 Cup Dehydrated Onions
Onions are a must for flavor. They give the soup a savory base that makes everything come together.
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2 Teaspoons Garlic Powder
Garlic elevates the flavor profile and adds a depth of savoriness to the soup.
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1 Tablespoon Dried Herbs (e.g., Thyme, Oregano, Or Rosemary)
Fresh herbs might spoil, but dried herbs pack a punch of flavor that keeps for months in your jar.
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1 Teaspoon Black Pepper
Adds just the right amount of spice without overpowering the soup.
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2 Tablespoons Vegetable Bouillon Granules (or Chicken, If Preferred)
This is your secret ingredient for a rich, savory broth that’ll make your soup taste like it’s been simmering all day long.
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Optional: 1/2 Teaspoon Chili Flakes Or Paprika
If you like a bit of heat or a smoky flavor, throw in a pinch of chili flakes or paprika.
Cooking Instructions
Making the soup itself is as easy as pie, but there’s a little bit of magic in knowing how to prepare your jar mix once you’re ready to cook. Follow these steps:
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Prepare The Soup Mix
- Layer the ingredients into a mason jar, starting with the split peas and ending with the bouillon. If you’re using a jar, make sure there’s enough room to shake it up and mix the ingredients evenly.
- Seal the jar tightly. You can store this in a cool, dark place for several months, making it a convenient pantry staple.
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To Cook The Soup
- Empty the jar into a large pot.
- Add 8 cups of water (or vegetable broth if you want a richer flavor).
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally. The grains will cook through and soften.
- Check for seasoning and adjust with salt or additional spices to taste.
Ingredient Insights
Each ingredient in this dry soup mix has a purpose that not only enhances flavor but also boosts nutrition. Here’s a closer look at why these ingredients work so well together:
- Split peas and lentils: These legumes are high in fiber and protein, which helps create a filling, nutrient-dense meal. They also cook relatively quickly compared to other dried beans, making them ideal for a convenient dry mix.
- Barley: This whole grain adds texture and helps to make the soup more hearty. Barley also contributes to heart health with its high soluble fiber content.
- Dehydrated vegetables: Dehydrated carrots and onions provide flavor and nutrition, without the need for refrigeration. The dehydration process preserves their vitamins and minerals, so you’re still getting the benefits of fresh produce.
- Herbs and spices: These are essential for building flavor without added salt or sugar. Dried herbs like thyme and oregano bring an aromatic fragrance that enhances the overall taste. Garlic powder and black pepper add that extra punch.
Expert Tips
When you make your own dry soup mix, there are a few tricks to elevate it even further:
- Customize your veggies: Feel free to swap out or add vegetables. Dried peas work well with corn, green beans, or even dried bell peppers. Just keep the ratio of grains and legumes the same to ensure proper texture.
- Use homemade bouillon: If you want to avoid the additives in store-bought bouillon, you can make your own by blending dehydrated vegetables, nutritional yeast, and salt. This will add even more of a personal touch to your soup.
- Add extra protein: If you want your soup to pack more protein, throw in some dried chicken, sausage, or even tofu cubes. Just make sure the proteins are also dehydrated so they can keep up with the dry mix.
- Label your jar: Don’t forget to add a label with the recipe instructions for when you give this as a gift. You can even include a little note about what extra ingredients they’ll need to cook the soup.
Recipe Variations
One of the great things about dry soup mixes is how versatile they are. You can play around with different flavors and ingredients to create variations that suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Lentil Soup with Spinach and Lemon: Add dried spinach and a bit of lemon zest to the mix. This variation brings a refreshing, Mediterranean twist to the classic soup.
- Spicy Mexican Soup: Swap the herbs for a blend of cumin, chili powder, and oregano. You can also add dried corn and black beans for a southwestern flair.
- Mushroom Barley Soup: Add dehydrated mushrooms to the mix for an earthy, savory depth. Perfect for a mushroom lover or when you’re craving something a bit richer.
- Creamy Soup Version: Once the soup is cooked, you can stir in some powdered milk or coconut milk powder for a creamy texture.
Final Words
The beauty of dry soup mixes is that they’re as customizable as they are convenient. You can make your own, add in whatever ingredients you like, and adjust the flavors as you see fit. The mix can be stored for months, which means that you always have a quick and easy meal ready whenever hunger strikes.
And, of course, they make fantastic gifts! Who wouldn’t appreciate a thoughtful jar of homemade soup mix, especially when it’s paired with a handwritten note or a personalized label?