Soups are the ultimate comfort food, but they can also pack a powerful punch when it comes to providing necessary calories. Whether you’re recovering from an illness, need a high-energy meal, or simply want a hearty and satisfying dish, a high-calorie soup is the perfect solution. These soups not only fill you up, but they provide an abundance of nutrients, healthy fats, and proteins to keep you feeling energized throughout the day.

A good high-calorie soup can be tailored to suit any dietary need, from vegan and gluten-free to rich and indulgent, heavy on meat, or cream-based. So, if you’ve been searching for something to add that extra nutritional boost into your meals, look no further! This high-calorie soup recipe is packed with flavor and packed with goodness.

High Calorie Soup Recipe

Let’s dive right into this high-calorie soup that is as delicious as it is nutritious. The goal here is to create a rich, creamy soup that incorporates healthy fats, proteins, and carbs, ensuring you get a good balance of all the macronutrients. Think velvety smooth textures with an explosion of flavor – and, of course, an ample amount of calories to help fuel your body.

Recipe Name: Creamy Avocado and Chicken Soup with Sweet Potatoes

This soup combines avocado’s healthy fats, chicken’s lean protein, and the sweetness of sweet potatoes, creating a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any time of day. It’s quick to prepare and easy to customize based on your taste preferences.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make this high-calorie soup:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the veggies and adding a healthy dose of monounsaturated fats.
  • 1 medium onion, diced – The base for flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for that rich, aromatic punch.
  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced – Loaded with complex carbs and a great source of fiber and vitamin A.
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version) – To create the soup’s base and add moisture.
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded – Packed with lean protein to build and repair muscles.
  • 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted – For that creamy, luxurious texture and a hefty dose of healthy fats.
  • 1 cup coconut milk – A rich, smooth liquid that complements the avocado, lending creaminess without dairy.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Adds a warm, smoky undertone that balances the sweetness of the potatoes.
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – To bring in a subtle, smoky depth.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste – For seasoning.
  • Optional toppings: Chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice, crushed tortilla chips for crunch, or a dollop of sour cream.

Cooking Instructions

Let’s get started on cooking this mouth-watering soup:

  1. Sauté The Aromatics

    • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it softens, around 5 minutes.
    • Add the garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, allowing it to become fragrant but not burned.
  2. Cook The Sweet Potatoes

    • Add the diced sweet potato to the pot. Stir well to coat it in the oil and aromatics.
    • Let it cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the potatoes to start softening and caramelizing slightly, as this brings out their natural sweetness.
  3. Add The Liquids

    • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
    • Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
  4. Blend The Soup

    • Once the sweet potatoes are soft, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend everything together until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches.
    • Add the coconut milk, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend again until everything is well incorporated and creamy.
  5. Add The Chicken And Avocado

    • Stir in the shredded chicken and the avocado, breaking the avocado down as you stir.
    • Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes so the chicken heats through, and the avocado has time to integrate into the soup, adding to its creamy consistency.
  6. Final Adjustments

    • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if necessary.
    • For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze a little fresh lime juice into the soup just before serving.
  7. Serve

    • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your choice of garnishes-cilantro, lime, tortilla chips, or sour cream.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s take a moment to break down the key ingredients and why they’re so important to making this soup not only high in calories but also a powerhouse of nutrition:

  • Avocado: This creamy fruit is a nutritional gem, offering a healthy dose of monounsaturated fats that are vital for maintaining cell health, boosting brain function, and supporting cardiovascular health. It’s also packed with fiber and potassium, which help regulate blood pressure and keep you feeling satisfied longer.
  • Sweet Potatoes: These root vegetables are a great source of complex carbohydrates, which provide lasting energy. They also contain fiber, vitamins A and C, and a range of antioxidants that support overall health and immune function.
  • Chicken: Lean chicken breast is a prime source of high-quality protein, which is essential for building muscle, repairing tissues, and supporting metabolic functions. Plus, it helps you feel fuller for longer, making it a great ingredient for those looking to fuel up without overeating.
  • Coconut Milk: This non-dairy milk is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a type of fat that’s more easily absorbed by the body and used for quick energy. It also gives the soup its creamy texture without the need for dairy, which is perfect for lactose-sensitive individuals.

Expert Tips

  • Use Homemade Broth: If possible, use homemade chicken broth or stock. It’s richer in flavor and free from the preservatives often found in store-bought versions. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra nutrients.
  • Add Extra Greens: For added nutrition, consider stirring in some spinach or kale at the end of cooking. It’s a simple way to get more vitamins and minerals into your meal without compromising on flavor or texture.
  • Spice it Up: If you prefer a little heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. The spice complements the creamy texture beautifully.
  • Make it a Meal: For even more calories, serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or crackers. You can also top it with shredded cheese or a scoop of sour cream to up the calorie count.

Recipe Variations

This soup is highly customizable, so you can easily tweak it to match your preferences or dietary needs:

  • Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with cooked lentils, chickpeas, or tofu. You can also increase the amount of sweet potato to add more substance.
  • Vegan Version: Use vegetable broth, and substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Ensure that the coconut milk is unsweetened and swap out any dairy toppings for vegan-friendly alternatives like cashew cream or non-dairy cheese.
  • Spicy Version: Add more heat by blending in chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or cayenne pepper. Top with a dollop of spicy salsa or hot sauce for extra kick.

Final Words

This creamy avocado and chicken soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a powerhouse of nutrients and energy. Perfect for anyone looking to boost their calorie intake without sacrificing flavor or nutrition, it’s a dish that combines the best of savory, creamy, and slightly sweet all in one bowl. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation.

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