The allure of canned soup recipe is undeniable in the quest for heart-warming, nutritious meals that hit the spot. Quick, convenient, yet brimming with flavor, it often cradles our cravings in its comforting embrace.
We’re peeling back the lid to share a remarkable recipe that breathes new life into the humble canned soup. This fusion of pantry staples and fresh, vibrant ingredients ensures that the humble soup can cater to gourmet cravings.
Let’s delve into maximizing taste, savoring rich aromas, and relishing each spoonful. A culinary journey from can to table that explores the power of simplicity in a bowl. Ideal for those time-crunched days, or lazy Sundays, it’s a recipe that embraces convenience without compromising on flavor.
Dive in as we embark on this culinary escapade, transforming the everyday canned soup into an extraordinary dining experience. It’s time to uncork the magic of canned soup with a dash of creativity.
What Is Canned Soup?
Canned soup is a pre-cooked, ready-to-eat meal preserved in a can for convenience and longevity. An essential pantry staple, it offers an array of flavors, from classic tomato to hearty chicken noodles. Often, it only requires heating before consumption, making it a perfect solution for quick meals.
This product is favored for versatility, serving as a standalone dish or a recipe base. While its ingredients and nutritional content vary widely, it typically includes vegetables, proteins, broth, and seasonings.
History Of Canned Soup
The journey of canned soup recipes traces back to the 19th century. Dr. John T. Dorrance, a chemist at the Campbell Soup Company, revolutionized the food industry in 1897 by introducing condensed canned soup.
This innovation reduced packaging and shipping costs, making canned soup affordable and accessible. Over the decades, canned soup became a fixture in kitchens worldwide, renowned for its convenience and shelf stability.
From quick meals to elaborate recipes, canned soup has evolved as a versatile ingredient, highlighting various flavors, textures, and cuisines. Its enduring appeal is a testament to the culinary adaptability of this pantry staple.
Interesting Facts About Canned Soup
- War Aid: During WWII, Campbell’s provided the U.S. army with canned soups as a quick, nourishing food source for the soldiers.
- An Art Icon: Campbell’s soup cans became an art symbol when Andy Warhol used them in his famous pop art series in the 1960s, immortalizing the product in modern culture.
- Variety Abound: Hundreds of different canned soup varieties are available globally, reflecting diverse palates and food cultures.
- Astronaut Food: In the 1960s, canned soup was adapted into a semi-liquid form for astronauts to consume in zero gravity!
- Long Shelf Life: Canned soups can last up to five years, making them a staple in disaster preparedness kits.
- Nutritional Value: Contrary to some perceptions, many canned soups offer good nutritional value, including high protein and fiber content and a range of vitamins and minerals.
What Makes The Canned Soup Special?
- Convenience: Canned soup recipes require minimal prep time and effort, making them perfect for busy weekdays or low energy levels.
- Versatility: The variety of flavors available in canned soups allows for numerous recipe combinations and adaptations, catering to diverse culinary preferences.
- Shelf-Stable: Canned soup’s long shelf life ensures you always have a meal option, even when fresh produce isn’t available.
- Comforting: There’s something inherently comforting about a bowl of warm soup, making these recipes ideal for cozy nights in or when feeling under the weather.
- Nutritious: Many canned soups are packed with vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fiber, providing a balanced nutritional profile when used in a recipe.
- Economical: Canned soup recipes often utilize budget-friendly ingredients, making them affordable.
- Global Flavors: Canned soups come in flavors across global cuisines, enabling you to experience a taste of different cultures in your kitchen.
- Dietary Preferences: There are canned soup options for various dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and low-sodium diets.
Ingredients List
Ingredient | Quantity |
Stewed Tomatoes (28 oz can) | 1 can |
Vegetarian Refried Beans (16 oz can) | 1 can |
Whole Kernel Corn (15 oz can) | 1 can (drained & rinsed) |
Green Beans (15 oz can) | 1 can |
Vegetable Broth (14.5 oz can) | 1 can |
Dried Oregano | 1 tablespoon |
Garlic Powder | 1 tablespoon |
Salt and Pepper | to taste |
Dried Basil | 1 teaspoon |
Dried Parsley | 1 tablespoon |
Dried Minced Onion | 2 tablespoons |
Ingredient Tips
- Quality Matters: When selecting canned soup, opt for a brand with a reputation for quality. Pay attention to the ingredients list and aim for products with real, wholesome ingredients and low sodium.
- Embrace Freshness: Avoid adding fresh ingredients, even using canned soup. Veggies, herbs, and proteins can elevate your soup to a new level.
- Consider Texture: Mix textures by adding crispy toppings like croutons or mix-ins like noodles or rice for an extra bite.
- Spice it Up: Spices and seasonings can transform a canned soup recipe. Add a dash of cayenne for heat, a sprinkle of turmeric for earthiness, or a squeeze of lemon for acidity.
- Protein Boost: Add beans, lentils, cooked chicken, or tofu to your soup for protein and satiety.
- Dairy Decisions: To create a creamier soup, add dairy or non-dairy milk, cream, or yogurt.
- Store Properly: If you have leftover canned soup, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, not in an opened can, to maintain freshness.
Can You Vary The Canned Soup With Other Ingredients?
The versatility of canned soup recipes is one of their greatest strengths. Here’s how you can adapt them to fit various dietary preferences:
- Keto: Choose a canned soup with high fat and protein but low carbs, like chicken or beef broth. Add more meat, low-carb vegetables (like broccoli, zucchini), and healthy fats (avocado, cheese).
- Paleo: Look for canned soups with ingredients that align with the paleo diet—meat, vegetables, and no grains or legumes. Add extra lean meats or fish and more fresh veggies.
- Gluten-Free: Select a soup that is labeled gluten-free. Avoid soups thickened with flour. Add rice, quinoa, or gluten-free pasta for a more hearty dish.
- Whole30: Pick a soup without sugar, grains, dairy, or legumes. Check the label to ensure it meets Whole30 standards. Load it up with compliant proteins and vegetables.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Choose a vegetable-based soup or a soup with a clear broth. For vegans, ensure the soup doesn’t contain animal products like dairy, meat, or broth. Add plant-based proteins (like tofu and beans) and plenty of vegetables.
Recipe Directions
- Puree the stewed tomatoes in a blender or food processor until smooth.
- Combine the pureed stewed tomatoes, vegetarian refried beans, drained and rinsed whole-kernel corn, green beans, and vegetable broth in a large pot. Stir well.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust the water level as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
- Add dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to distribute the seasonings.
- Include dried basil, dried parsley, and dried minced onion. Mix thoroughly.
- Continue cooking until the soup is heated, and flavors are well combined.
- Add minced onion and cook until the soup starts to boil.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the creamy vegetable tomato soup hot, and enjoy!
Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings
Variations
- Opt for a seafood twist. Add shrimp or clams for a coastal flair.
- Choose a Mexican style with added black beans, corn, and a splash of lime.
- Go Italian by adding pasta, cannellini beans, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Add-Ons
- Protein punch: Introduce grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas.
- Green goodness: Add spinach, kale, or zucchini for a veggie boost.
- Hearty grains: Stir in cooked quinoa, rice, or barley.
Toppings
- Cheese it up: Sprinkle it with cheddar, Parmesan, or feta.
- Crunch factor: Add croutons, toasted nuts, or seeds.
- Freshen up: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill.
Scaling The Recipe
Scaling a canned soup recipe up or down is straightforward due to its simplicity. Here’s how:
Scaling Up
- Ingredients: Multiply the quantity of each ingredient by the number of additional servings you need. For example, if the recipe serves 4 and you need to serve 8, you would double the quantity of each ingredient.
- Pot Size: Make sure you have a large pot to accommodate the increased quantity of soup.
- Cooking Time: The cooking time may increase slightly due to the larger volume. Monitor the soup to ensure it doesn’t stick or burn.
Scaling Down
- Ingredients: Decrease the quantity of each ingredient proportionately. For instance, if the recipe serves 4 and you only need 2 servings, you would halve the quantity of each ingredient.
- Cooking Time: The cooking time may decrease slightly due to the smaller volume. Be careful not to overcook the soup, which may affect the taste and texture.
What Is Used For Garnishing?
Garnishing a canned soup can add an extra layer of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Here are some options:
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, basil, or dill can enhance the soup’s flavor and add a pop of color.
- Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese such as grated Parmesan, cheddar, or crumbled feta adds a delicious salty note.
- Cream or Yogurt: A swirl of cream, sour cream, or Greek yogurt can add a touch of richness and create a beautiful contrast in color.
- Nuts and Seeds: Toasted nuts or seeds, like pumpkin or sesame seeds, provide a delightful crunch.
- Croutons or Toasted Bread: These add a satisfying crunch and are particularly good in pureed or creamy soups.
- Citrus Zest or Juice: A sprinkle of lemon, lime zest, or a squeeze of juice can brighten the soup’s flavor.
- Freshly Ground Pepper or Red Pepper Flakes: These add a touch of heat and visual interest.
- Olive Oil Drizzle: A drizzle of good quality olive oil can add depth of flavor and a glossy finish.
Can I Make Canned Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?
Both slow cookers and Instant Pots are fantastic tools for soup preparation. Here’s how you can adapt a canned soup recipe for each:
Slow Cooker
- Puree the tomatoes per your original recipe, then add them to the slow cooker.
- Add ingredients like refried beans, corn, green beans, vegetable broth, and seasonings.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the onions.
- Adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve.
- The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld together and deepen over time, resulting in a rich, tasty soup.
Instant Pot
- Use the “Sauté” function to cook down the tomatoes and refried beans, creating a base for the soup.
- Add corn, green beans, vegetable broth, and seasonings.
- Secure the lid, set the Instant Pot to “Soup” or “Pressure Cook” mode, and set the timer for about 10 minutes.
- Perform a quick release once the timer is up.
- Add the onions and use the “Sauté” function again to bring the soup to a boil.
- Adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve.
Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?
You can certainly use either store-bought or homemade broth for your canned soup recipe, each offering its benefits:
Store-Bought Broth
- Convenience: Store-bought broth is ready-to-use, saving you time and effort.
- Availability: It’s readily available and comes in various flavors such as chicken, beef, and vegetable.
- Consistency: The taste is consistent, ensuring your soup flavor remains stable each time you make it.
- However, be mindful of the sodium content and additives that can be present in some brands of store-bought broth.
Homemade Broth
- Control: Making your broth allows you to control the ingredients, including the salt level and the types of vegetables or meats used.
- Flavor: Homemade broth often has a deeper flavor profile than most store-bought versions.
- Zero Waste: It’s a great way to use leftover vegetable scraps or bones.
Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup?
The beauty of a canned soup recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of meat, fish, pasta, and vegetables to create variations that suit your taste. Here are some possibilities:
- Meat: Swap in different types of meat, such as chicken, beef, or pork. Try using smoked meats or sausages for an added layer of flavor.
- Fish: White fish, salmon, or shellfish like shrimp or clams can work well in soup, particularly tomato or broth-based soup.
- Pasta: There’s a world of pasta shapes to try. From penne and fusilli to orzo and tortellini, the options are endless. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly, as different pasta shapes and sizes will have different cooking requirements.
- Vegetables: Add any veggies you like or have on hand. Carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, kale, and potatoes are all great additions. This is also a great way to use leftover vegetables in your fridge.
SuccessTips – Tips And Tricks For Making The Soup
Here are some tips and tricks to elevate your canned soup experience:
Prepping Tips
- Read the Label: Not all canned soups are created equal. Look for ones with low sodium and without unnecessary additives or preservatives.
- Gather All Ingredients: Before starting, ensure your ingredients and tools are ready. This “mise en place” approach can help make the process smoother.
- Freshness Matters: Fresh herbs and spices can significantly enhance the flavor of canned soup.
Cooking Tips
- Enhance the Base: Sauté some onions, garlic, or other aromatic vegetables in the pot before adding the canned soup. This will add depth to the soup’s flavor.
- Mind the Heat: Don’t let the soup boil vigorously for long periods as it can make the ingredients tough and could change the soup’s flavor.
- Stir Regularly: Stir your soup occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pot and to ensure even heating.
- Season to Taste: Taste your soup as you go and adjust the seasonings as needed. Even a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavor.
- Don’t Rush: Let the soup simmer gently to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Consider Texture: If your soup is too thin, let it simmer uncovered. If it’s too thick, add a bit more broth or water.
- Serve Right: Always serve soup hot, and consider garnishes like fresh herbs, cheese, or a dollop of cream for a restaurant-style presentation.
Nutritional Values
Discover the nutritional goldmine of canned soup! Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, it offers a convenient and wholesome option for a quick and nourishing meal. Uncover the goodness in every spoonful.
What Are The Total Calories In The Soup?
Calculating the exact caloric content of a soup can be tricky as it depends on the specific ingredients used and their quantities. However, an estimate can be provided.
Let’s consider a basic canned soup recipe:
- Stewed tomatoes: Around 90 calories per cup.
- Refried beans: Approximately 140 calories per half cup.
- Corn: Roughly 130 calories per cup.
- Green beans: Close to 35 calories per cup.
- Vegetable broth: Around 20 calories per cup.
Based on this, a single serving of the soup (considering 4 servings in total) would have approximately 130-150 calories. This doesn’t account for any additional ingredients or garnishes you might add.
Dietary Restrictions Of Canned Soup
The dietary restrictions of canned soup can vary widely depending on the specific ingredients used in the recipe. Here are some potential considerations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Most canned soups can be vegetarian or vegan-friendly by using vegetable broth and omitting animal-based ingredients. However, be sure to check the labels of any store-bought ingredients, as some might contain hidden animal-derived ingredients.
- Gluten-Free: Some canned soups are naturally gluten-free, but others may contain ingredients like wheat flour or barley. Again, check the labels if you’re buying store-bought soup, or ensure any added ingredients like pasta or grains are gluten-free if you’re making your own.
- Low Sodium: Many canned soups are high in sodium, which can concern those with hypertension or other heart-related conditions. Look for low-sodium versions or make your soup to control the salt content.
- Allergies: Some canned soups might contain common allergens like soy, wheat, or dairy. Be sure to check the ingredient list if you have any food allergies.
- Keto/Paleo: These diets typically limit processed foods and carbohydrates, so many canned soups may not be suitable. If making your own, you can tailor the recipe to fit these dietary requirements by focusing on high-protein, low-carb ingredients.
Health Benefits Of Canned Soup
When chosen wisely and adequately integrated into a balanced diet, Canned soup can provide various health benefits. Here are some of them:
- Nutrient-Rich: Many canned soups contain a variety of vegetables, legumes, and sometimes meat, which can provide a wide array of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein.
- Hydration: Soups are primarily water-based, and thus they contribute to daily fluid intake, aiding in hydration.
- Low in Calories: Many types of canned soup, especially broth-based varieties, are relatively low in calories, which can benefit weight management.
- Satiety: The high water and fiber content in soups can increase feelings of fullness and help control hunger, which may aid in weight loss.
- Convenience: Canned soups provide a quick and easy way to get a meal on the table, which can be helpful for those with busy schedules.
- Long Shelf Life: Canned soups can be stored long without losing their nutritional value, reducing food waste.
Nutrition Table
How Can I Make Canned Soup Lower In Sodium?
Reducing sodium in a canned soup can be achieved in several ways:
- Choose Low-Sodium Products: Many companies offer low-sodium or reduced-sodium versions of their canned soups. Look for these options when shopping.
- Make Your Own Soup: By making soup at home, you can control the amount of salt added. Use fresh ingredients and low-sodium broths to keep sodium levels in check.
- Dilute the Soup: Add extra water, unsalted broth, or unsalted canned tomatoes to the soup. This will dilute the sodium without greatly affecting the overall flavor.
- Add More Vegetables: Increase the volume and nutritional content of the soup by adding more vegetables, beans, or grains. These additions will also dilute the sodium concentration.
- Use Herbs and Spices: Boost flavor with herbs and spices instead of relying on salt. Garlic, onion, black pepper, oregano, and basil can enhance the soup’s flavor without adding sodium.
- Rinse Canned Ingredients: If the soup recipe includes other canned ingredients like beans or vegetables, rinse them thoroughly before adding them. This can significantly reduce the sodium content.
How Can I Make Canned Soup Lower In Sugar?
Canned soups generally don’t contain much sugar. Still, some varieties (especially those with tomato bases or added flavorings) can have more than expected. Here are some tips to lower the sugar content:
- Choose Wisely: Look for canned soups that don’t list sugar (or any of its aliases like high fructose corn syrup, dextrose, or maltose) in the ingredients.
- Go Homemade: Making soup at home gives you complete control over the ingredients. You can use fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and low-sodium broths without added sugars.
- Add Extra Veggies: If a canned soup is sweeter than you’d like, adding extra vegetables can help balance out the flavor while boosting the nutritional content.
- Rinse Canned Ingredients: If your soup recipe calls for other canned ingredients (like beans or tomatoes), rinsing them thoroughly before use can reduce the amount of sugar.
- Mind Your Toppings: Some typical soup toppings (like croutons or certain types of yogurt) may contain added sugars. Opt for sugar-free alternatives or skip the toppings altogether.
- Spice it Up: Adding spices and herbs can enhance the flavor without needing sugar. Try a dash of chili powder, cayenne, garlic, or fresh herbs.
How To Serve The Canned Soup At Its Best?
Serving canned soup involves more than heating and pouring it into a bowl. Extra steps can enhance its presentation, taste, and nutritional value. Here are some tips:
- Presentation: Always serve hot soup in a warm bowl. This will ensure your soup stays hot for longer. You could also garnish it with a sprig of fresh herbs for visual appeal.
- Enhance the Flavor: Adding fresh herbs, a squeeze of citrus, or a sprinkle of spices just before serving can elevate the flavor of your soup.
- Add Texture: Add some toasted bread, croutons, a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of seeds, or some chopped fresh vegetables for a pleasing crunch.
- Pair Wisely: Pair your soup with a complimentary dish. A light soup pairs well with a hearty sandwich, while a filling soup might go well with a simple salad or crusty bread.
- Offer Condiments: Put out small bowls of toppings and condiments. Chopped fresh herbs, grated cheese, chopped onions, or hot sauce allow everyone to customize their bowl.
- Serve in Courses: If you’re having a multi-course meal, serve a lighter soup as a first course. If the soup is the show’s star, pair it with simple sides.
Perfect Side Dishes To Complement The Canned Soup Recipe
The best side dishes for canned soup often depend on the type of soup and your personal preferences. However, here are some universally loved options:
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty bread slice is a classic soup sidekick. It’s perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all the delicious flavors.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Particularly great with tomato soup, a grilled cheese sandwich provides a warm, melty, and slightly crispy contrast to a bowl of soup.
- Salad: A crisp, fresh salad can balance a hot, hearty soup. Consider simple greens with a light vinaigrette or a more elaborate salad with fruits, nuts, and cheese.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a healthier option, serve your soup with roasted vegetables. The caramelization adds a sweet, savory depth that can complement many soup flavors.
- Baked Potato: Particularly good with cream-based soups, a baked potato with your choice of toppings can be a filling and comforting side.
- Rice or Quinoa: These grains can be served on the side or added directly into the soup for a more filling meal.
- Flatbread: Warm flatbread, like naan or pita, pairs well with pureed or creamy soups.
How Long Can We Store The Soup?
Canned soup, when unopened, can last for years past its “best by” date if stored in a cool, dry place. The exact shelf life varies depending on the ingredients and the canning process. Still, it’s generally safe to consume as long as the can isn’t damaged or bulging and the soup smells and looks okay when opened.
Once the canned soup is opened, any leftovers must be stored in the refrigerator in a covered container and eaten within 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing the leftovers. Soup can be frozen for 2 to 3 months.
Can I Make The Soup In Advance?
Soup is one of the best dishes to make in advance because its flavors often deepen and improve after a day or two in the fridge. Here’s how you can do it:
- Cook the Soup: Follow your recipe to cook the soup. Allow it to cool a bit before proceeding to the next step.
- Store: Once the soup has cooled, transfer it to airtight containers. If you plan to freeze some of the soup, leave space in the container for expansion.
- Refrigerate or Freeze: Place the soup in the refrigerator if you plan to consume it within 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it longer, place the containers in the freezer, where the soup lasts 2 to 3 months.
- Reheat: When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup on the stovetop or microwave until it’s hot. If the soup is frozen, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What Can We Do With Leftovers?
Got leftover soup? No worries! There are many creative and delicious ways to put it to good use:
- Freeze It: Cool, portion, and freeze leftovers for a future quick meal. Just reheat and serve when you’re ready.
- Transform It: Turn your soup into a sauce for pasta or grains. Reduce it on the stove until it thickens up.
- Add to a Stir-fry: Use your soup as a flavorful broth in a stir-fry. Add meat, tofu, or veggies for a quick, satisfying meal.
- Make a Casserole: Mix soup with cooked pasta or rice, top with cheese, and bake for a comforting casserole.
- Create a Dip: Thicken creamy soups and use them as a savory dip for bread or crackers.
- Stuff Vegetables: Use as a filling for bell peppers or zucchini and bake.
- Enhance Scrambled Eggs or Omelettes: Add to your morning eggs for a flavor boost.
Special Tools/Equipment
Cooking canned soup requires no specialized tools; you can prepare it with basic kitchen equipment. Here are the essentials:
- Can Opener: To open the canned soup.
- Pot or Saucepan: To heat the soup. The size depends on the quantity you’re preparing.
- Spoon or Ladle: To stir the soup and ensure even heating.
- Heat-Resistant Bowl or Container: If you have leftovers, you’ll need something to store the soup in the refrigerator.
- For more advanced canned soup preparations or for cooking homemade soup, you might find the following tools helpful:
- Blender or Immersion Blender: For pureeing ingredients or blending the soup to your desired consistency.
- Slow Cooker or Instant Pot: These can be useful for long, slow simmering or making soup from scratch in less time.
- Knife and Cutting Board: You add them to the canned soup to chop fresh ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Add Fresh Ingredients To Canned Soup To Enhance Its Flavor?
Indeed, you can. Incorporating fresh vegetables, herbs, or proteins can significantly improve canned soup’s taste, texture, and nutritional value. It is a splendid way to personalize the dish to your preference.
Is It Advisable To Rinse Canned Soup Before Heating?
Generally, canned soup does not require rinsing before heating. The liquid in the soup often contributes to the overall flavor and consistency. However, if you find a particular brand too salty, you may rinse it lightly, but this may alter the taste and texture of the soup.
Should Canned Soup Be Diluted With Water Or Broth?
The answer primarily depends on personal preference and the type of soup. Some soups might be dense and require dilution, while others are best consumed as is. If you dilute, use broth instead of water to maintain the flavor profile.
Is It Safe To Consume Canned Soup Past Its Expiration Date?
While canned soup can last beyond its “best by” date when unopened and stored correctly, it is always prudent to check for signs of spoilage, such as a bulging can, rust, or an off smell when the can is opened. In case of doubt, it is best to err on caution and discard the soup.
Can Canned Soup Be Eaten Cold?
While the canned soup is typically heated before consumption for taste and safety reasons, it is technically precooked during the canning process and could be eaten cold if desired. However, it is essential to note that the taste and texture of the soup may be considerably different when consumed cold.
Quick And Healthy Canned Soup Recipes To Boost Your Wellness
4
servings10
minutes30
minutes150
kcalCanned soup is a quick, versatile, and convenient meal option that has been a kitchen staple for decades. From hearty, chunky stews to velvety cream soups, there’s a canned soup for every occasion. Just heat, enhance with your favorite add-ons, and enjoy!
Ingredients
Stewed Tomatoes (28 oz can)
Vegetarian Refried Beans (16 oz can)
Whole Kernel Corn (15 oz can)
Green Beans (15 oz can)
Vegetable Broth (14.5 oz can)
Dried Oregano
Garlic Powder
Salt and Pepper
Dried Basil
Dried Parsley
Dried Minced Onion
Step-By-Step Directions
- Start by pureeing stewed tomatoes using an electric blender or mixer. This forms the rich, tangy base for the soup.
- In a large pot, combine the pureed tomatoes with refried beans, corn, green beans, and vegetable broth. This melding of ingredients provides a variety of textures and flavors.
- Set the pot on medium heat. Allow the refried beans and tomatoes to cook down, which creates a flavorful base for the soup.
- Stir occasionally to prevent any ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning.
- Watch the soup’s consistency. Add water to prevent over-thickening, ensuring the soup maintains a satisfying, not-too-heavy texture.
- It’s time to infuse the soup with aromatic seasonings. Add oregano, garlic powder, salt and pepper, basil, parsley, and minced onion to the pot.
- Cover the pot and let it cook until the mixture is heated through. This allows the flavors to mingle and intensify.
- Add the onions next, providing the soup with a sharp, sweet undertone.
- Continue cooking until the soup reaches a gentle boil. This final simmer seals all the flavors, ensuring a rich, satisfying bowl.
- Serve hot, with optional garnishes like fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese, for a comforting meal that hits all the right notes.
Recipe Video
Notes
- While canned soup is often consumed as is, feel free to customize it with your ingredients to enrich its flavor and nutritional profile.
- The sodium content in canned soup can be high. If you’re on a sodium-restricted diet, look for low-sodium or no-salt-added varieties. You can also rinse the soup lightly to reduce sodium, but this may affect the soup’s flavor and consistency.
- Consume canned soup by the “best by” date on the can for the best taste. However, the soup is typically safe to consume for years past this date if the can is undamaged and stored properly.
- Leftover canned soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Always refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking.
- Canned soup is perfect for those busy days when you need a quick meal, but it’s also a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Have fun experimenting with different add-ons and garnishes to make each bowl of soup uniquely yours!