Homemade Amish Friendship Soup Recipe

There’s something special about homemade soups, especially when they come with a story. Amish Friendship Soup is one of those recipes passed down through generations, typically shared among friends and family as a symbol of kindness and community. The beauty of this soup is that it’s more than just a meal-it’s an experience, a tradition. And while the name may sound fancy, it’s surprisingly simple to make. It’s all about sharing, connection, and a great bowl of comfort.

You’ll often hear about "friendship starter" soups, which are essentially a base mixture that you pass along to others, adding your personal touch as the soup evolves. Amish Friendship Soup isn’t just about nourishing the body-it’s about nourishing relationships. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, bringing it to a potluck, or gifting it to a friend, this soup’s roots run deep in the spirit of community and generosity. And what better way to embrace that than by making your own version at home?

So, if you’re ready to dive into a rich, hearty bowl of something truly special, let’s explore this homemade Amish Friendship Soup recipe. It’s comforting, it’s nourishing, and, best of all, it’s easy to make. Let’s get started!

Homemade Amish Friendship Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make this soup, you don’t need anything too complicated, just a handful of simple, yet delicious, ingredients. Here’s the shopping list:

• 1 packet of Amish Friendship Soup Mix (this is usually a dry mix of beans and vegetables, typically available at specialty stores or online)
• 1 lb of ground beef or turkey (you can substitute this with vegetarian options like tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version)
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) mixed vegetables (you can use frozen veggies or fresh veggies like carrots, peas, and corn)
• 4 cups of beef broth (or vegetable broth if you’re keeping it vegetarian)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp of dried basil
• 1 tsp of dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 cup elbow macaroni or any small pasta (optional, for added texture)

This list may seem long, but trust me, it’s worth it. The soup is bursting with flavors from the savory broth to the tender vegetables, and the hearty beans make it filling enough to stand as a meal on its own.

Cooking Instructions

Alright, now that we’ve gathered all our ingredients, it’s time to get cooking! This part is where the magic happens, so follow these steps closely:

1. Prep The Soup Base

   • Heat your large soup pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until they’re fragrant and softened (about 3-4 minutes).
   • Add the ground beef or turkey to the pot. Cook it thoroughly, breaking it apart as it browns. If you’re using a vegetarian alternative, just sauté it until it’s heated through.

2. Combine The Veggies And Beans

   • Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and mixed vegetables. If you’re using fresh veggies, add them now and let them cook for a bit before adding the broth.

3. Add The Broth And Seasonings

   • Pour in the beef broth (or veggie broth), and then toss in the basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil.

4. Simmer And Develop Flavor

   • Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes. This will give all the flavors time to blend and develop.

5. Add Pasta (Optional)

   • About 10 minutes before the soup is done, add your elbow macaroni (or other small pasta). Stir it in, and let it cook until it’s tender.

6. Taste And Adjust

   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. If it needs a little more depth, try adding a pinch of salt or extra herbs. If you like it spicy, a dash of red pepper flakes will do the trick.

7. Serve

   • Once the pasta is cooked and the flavors have melded, your soup is ready to be served. Ladle it into bowls, and if you want to make it extra special, garnish with a sprinkle of grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream.

Ingredient Insights

Here’s a deeper look at why the ingredients in Amish Friendship Soup come together to create something so heartwarming:

• Beans (Kidney, Pinto, etc.): Beans are the star of this soup. They’re packed with protein and fiber, making them incredibly filling. Plus, they absorb the flavors of the broth and spices, adding richness and depth.
• Ground Meat (or Vegetarian Option): Whether you go with beef, turkey, or a plant-based substitute, the protein helps make this soup a complete meal. It adds savoriness and texture, rounding out the soup’s heartiness.
• Diced Tomatoes: The tangy sweetness of tomatoes brightens up the broth, while providing a natural base for the soup. Plus, they add vibrant color and richness to the dish.
• Broth: The liquid base is essential for creating a flavorful soup. Beef broth is classic, but vegetable broth gives it a lighter, more neutral flavor for those looking for a vegetarian option.
• Pasta: Adding pasta isn’t mandatory, but it gives the soup a comforting, cozy texture. It helps make the soup more filling, and the little pasta bites complement the tender beans and meat beautifully.

Expert Tips

Want to take your Amish Friendship Soup to the next level? Here are some pro tips to help you nail it:

• Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can prep the dry ingredients (beans, herbs, and veggies) ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. That way, you can throw everything together quickly on soup day.
• Make it Spicy: For a kick of heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a teaspoon of chili powder when sautéing the onions and garlic. If you like your soup on the spicier side, go wild with red pepper flakes!
• Use a Slow Cooker: If you have time, make the soup in a slow cooker! Brown the meat and sauté the veggies, then toss everything into the slow cooker with the broth and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Garnish Like a Pro: Top your soup with some shredded cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. A little cheese goes a long way in adding extra richness.
• Flavor Boost: A splash of vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavors if you feel the soup needs a little more zing.

Recipe Variations

The beauty of Amish Friendship Soup lies in how flexible it is. You can change up the ingredients based on your taste or what you have on hand:

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and use vegetable broth. Swap in more beans, such as black beans, chickpeas, or even lentils, for added protein and texture.
• Spicy Version: Add diced green chilies, a bit of hot sauce, or even fresh chopped jalapeños to heat things up.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. The more vegetables, the heartier the soup!
• Swap the Pasta: If you’re not into pasta, try substituting with quinoa, rice, or even potatoes. Each choice brings its own flavor and texture to the soup.
• Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: If you prefer a hands-off approach, both of these methods work beautifully. Just set it and forget it!

Final Words

Making Amish Friendship Soup is like giving yourself a warm hug in a bowl. The mix of tender beans, savory meat, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs is more than just the sum of its parts. It’s a soul-satisfying, comforting meal that feels like home, no matter where you are. It’s also a recipe that encourages sharing, which makes it even more special. So go ahead, make a batch, and pass along the friendship starter to someone who could use a little warmth in their life.