Exploring Mouthwatering Creamy Quinoa Soup Recipe For A Delightful Evening

In the vast tapestry of culinary traditions, the quest for heartwarming, nutritious comfort knows no boundaries. Enter the world of Creamy Quinoa Soup—a harmonious blend of ancient grains and luscious flavors that invites a symphony of tastes with every spoonful. 

Quinoa, often haile as the “golden grain of the Andes,” lends its rich protein profile to this delicacy, transforming a simple soup into a protein-packed experience. As it simmers, the subtle nuttiness of quinoa melds seamlessly with a velvety broth, creating a texture and depth that beckons you to dive in. 

What Is Creamy Quinoa Soup?

Creamy Quinoa Soup is a sumptuous blend of quinoa, a protein-rich grain native to the Andes, and a velvety broth infused with select herbs and vegetables. The combination delivers a texture that’s both hearty and smooth. 

Nutty undertones from the quinoa are beautifully juxtaposed with the rich creaminess of the soup base, making it a nutritious and comforting dish. 

History Of Creamy Quinoa Soup 

The origins of Creamy Quinoa Soup trace back to the ancient Andean civilizations, predominantly the Incas, who revered quinoa as the “mother grain.” For them, quinoa was more than just sustenance; it was a symbol of spiritual nourishment. 

Over centuries, as quinoa’s popularity traversed borders, its application in various dishes expanded. The inception of Creamy Quinoa Soup, though not definitively dated, is believed to have been an adaptation by locals combining the protein-rich grain with available creamy ingredients to enhance its flavor and texture. 

Interesting Facts About The Creamy Quinoa Soup 

• Ancient Roots: Quinoa was called the “mother grain” by the Incas and was considered sacred. The creamy quinoa soup marries this ancient grain with modern culinary preferences.
• Nutritional Powerhouse: Apart from being delicious, quinoa is a complete protein, providing the body’s nine essential amino acids.
• Gluten-Free Goodness: Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making Creamy Quinoa Soup a go-to for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Versatile Veggie Add-ins: This soup can be enriched with a variety of vegetables like kale, spinach, or broccoli, enhancing its nutrient profile.

What Makes The Creamy Quinoa Soup Special? 

• Ancient Heritage: Its roots trace back to ancient Andean civilizations, adding a touch of history to every bowl.
• Nutritional Profile: Quinoa is a complete protein, ensuring a balanced intake of all nine essential amino acids.
• Gluten-Free: Natural gluten-free properties make it a perfect choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
• Texture Blend: The soup boasts a delightful mix of creamy smoothness juxtaposed with the slightly crunchy texture of cooked quinoa.
• Versatility: It can be easily adapted with various ingredients, making it suitable for vegetarians, vegans, or meat lovers.

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Quantity
Quinoa	1¼ cups, rinsed
Heavy cream	1½ cups
Baby spinach	2 cups, chopped
Italian seasoning	1 tablespoon
Tomato sauce	1 (8-ounce) can
Diced tomatoes	1 (15-ounce) can
Chickpeas	1 (15-ounce) can, drained and rinsed
Chicken broth	4 cups
Garlic cloves	4, minced
Celery stalks	2, diced
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Carrots	3 medium, peeled and diced
Red onion	½, diced
Salt and pepper	to taste

Ingredient Tips

• Quinoa: Always rinse quinoa before cooking to remove the natural coating called saponin, which can make it taste bitter or soapy.
• Heavy Cream: Consider using half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version. If you’re going for a dairy-free option, almond or cashew milk can be an excellent creamy alternative.
• Baby Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard can be a good substitute if unavailable. Remember to remove the tough stems and chop finely.
• Canned Ingredients: Choose no-salt-added or low-sodium versions whenever possible to control the salt content.
• Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth is an easy swap for a vegetarian version.
• Garlic and Onions: Freshly minced or diced always gives the best flavor. However, garlic and onion powders can be used in a pinch—adjust quantities accordingly.
• Olive Oil: Choose extra virgin olive oil for a richer flavor. Any vegetable oil or even butter can be used for sautéing if unavailable.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

The Creamy Quinoa Soup can be adapted to fit a variety of dietary preferences. Here’s how you can vary the recipe for different diets:

Keto

• Replace quinoa with cauliflower rice to reduce carbs.
• Omit chickpeas as they are high in carbs.
• Increase the amount of heavy cream and olive oil to up the fat content.

Paleo

• Replace quinoa with cauliflower rice or omit entirely.
• Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
• Omit chickpeas and add more vegetables or a protein like chicken or beef.
• Ensure the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes are without additives or make your own.

Gluten-Free

• Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, but always ensure it hasn’t been cross-contaminated.
• Ensure the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and any other store-bought ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Whole30

• Omit quinoa and chickpeas.
• Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
• Make sure the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes have no added sugars or non-compliant additives.
• Add more veggies or compliant protein sources.

Vegetarian

• Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
• You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.

Vegan

• Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
• Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
• Omit chickpeas if desired or replace with other beans or lentils.
• Add more vegetables for a hearty touch.

Recipe Directions

• Begin by heating oil in a saucepan over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
• Add minced garlic, diced celery, sliced carrots, and chopped onion to the pan. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
• Sauté the mixture for about 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
• Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, creating a flavorful base for the soup.
• Introduce the aromatic Italian seasoning, along with the richness of tomato sauce and the vibrant tang of diced tomatoes.
• To enhance the heartiness, add a touch of protein-rich quinoa and the nutty goodness of chickpeas. Give everything a good stir to combine.
• Adjust the seasoning once again with a bit more freshly ground black pepper to elevate the flavors.
• Lower the heat to a steady simmer as the mixture reaches a gentle boil, allowing the ingredients to meld over the next 20 to 25 minutes.
• Just before the soup is fully cooked, introduce a delightful creamy element by gently pouring in the heavy cream. This adds a luxurious texture to the dish.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• For a spicier kick, infuse with chipotle or red pepper flakes.
• Swap quinoa for barley or wild rice for a different texture.
• Incorporate butternut squash or sweet potatoes for added sweetness.

Add-Ons

• Toss in roasted bell peppers or zucchini slices.
• Enhance protein with shredded chicken, tofu, or beef strips.
• Stir in fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or cilantro for a burst of green.
• Introduce mushrooms for a meaty, earthy depth.

Toppings

• Garnish with grated parmesan or vegan cheese crumbles.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh chives or green onions for color and bite.
• Drizzle with a touch of truffle oil for luxury.
• Top with roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for crunch.
• Dollop a spoonful of pesto or sour cream for added richness.

Scaling The Recipe

Here is how you can scale the recipe:

To Scale Up

• Determine the multiplier: If you want to make a recipe for twice as many people, you’ll double the recipe, so the multiplier is 2.
• Multiply each ingredient: Take every ingredient in the recipe and multiply its quantity by the multiplier.
• Increase cooking time slightly: This only sometimes means doubling. The simmering might need a bit more time for soups, but sautéing times might stay similar.

To Scale Down

• Determine the divisor: To make a recipe for half as many people, you’ll halve the recipe, so the divisor is 2.
• Divide each ingredient: Take each ingredient and divide its quantity by the divisor.
• Decrease cooking time slightly: If simmering time is reduced, ensure ingredients like quinoa are still fully cooked.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

• Herbs: Fresh sprigs of parsley, cilantro, basil, dill, mint, or rosemary can add color and aroma.
• Citrus Zest or Slices: Lemon, lime, orange, or grapefruit zest or thinly sliced segments provide a bright contrast and tangy flavor.
• Edible Flowers: Pansies, violets, marigolds, and nasturtiums can make a dish look exquisite.
• Seeds and Nuts: Toasted sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, crushed peanuts, or slivered almonds offer crunch and visual appeal.
• Spices: A sprinkle of paprika, sumac, or a pinch of saffron threads can elevate the look and taste of a dish.
• Dollops: A dollop of sour cream, yogurt, guacamole, or whipped cream can create a focal point on the dish.

Can I Make Creamy Quinoa Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

The Creamy Quinoa Soup can be adapted for both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot. Here’s how you can do it:

Slow Cooker

• Sautéing (optional but recommended): In a pan, heat oil and sauté garlic, celery, carrots, and onion until softened. This step can be skipped, but sautéing enhances the flavor.
• Transfer to Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed veggies to the slow cooker.
• Add Ingredients: Add the quinoa, Italian seasoning, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and chicken broth—season with salt and pepper.
• Cook: Set the slow cooker on low and cook for 4-6 hours.
• Add Cream & Spinach: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach.
• Serve: Once the spinach has wilted and the soup is heated through, it’s ready to serve.

Instant Pot

• Use the Sauté Function: Turn on the sauté function. Once hot, add oil, followed by garlic, celery, carrots, and onion. Sauté until softened.
• Add Ingredients: Add the quinoa, Italian seasoning, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and chicken broth. Ensure you scrape the bottom of the pot to remove any bits stuck to it (to prevent the “burn” warning).
• Pressure Cook: Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to manual high pressure for 15 minutes.
• Natural Release: Once done, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
• Add Cream & Spinach: Turn on the sauté function again, and stir in the heavy cream and spinach. Cook until the spinach is wilted.
• Serve: Taste for seasoning adjustments and serve hot.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

You can use either store-bought broth or homemade broth for your Creamy Quinoa Soup, each with its own advantages:

Store-Bought Broth

• Convenience: This is the biggest advantage of store-bought broth. It’s ready to use and can save you a lot of time, especially when you’re in a hurry.
• Consistency: Store-bought broths have a consistent flavor, so if you have a preferred brand, you know what taste to expect.
• Variety: Many stores offer a range of broths, from organic to low-sodium to broths infused with herbs or specific flavors.

Homemade Broth:

• Flavor Control: When making your own broth, you can adjust the flavors exactly to your liking.
• No Additives: Homemade broth typically doesn’t have the additives, artificial flavors, or preservatives that can be found in some store-bought versions.
• Economical: Making broth at home can be cost-effective, especially if you’re using leftover bones and vegetable scraps.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup?

The beauty of soups is their versatility. While the base recipe for Creamy Quinoa Soup provides a specific flavor profile, you can certainly experiment and incorporate various meats, fish, pasta, and vegetables. Here are some suggestions:

Meat

• Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken or boneless chicken pieces can add heartiness.
• Turkey: Ground turkey or turkey chunks can be a leaner option.
• Pork: Diced ham or even slices of cooked bacon can introduce a smoky flavor.
• Beef: Ground beef or small beef chunks can add richness.

Fish

• Salmon: Add cooked and flaked salmon for a fishy twist.
• Shrimp: Cooked shrimp can be added towards the end to keep them tender.
• White Fish: Chunks of cod, haddock, or tilapia can be incorporated.

Pasta

• Orzo: This rice-shaped pasta can be a substitute for quinoa.
• Small Shells or Macaroni: These can provide a nice texture contrast.
• Rice: If you’re not in the mood for pasta, rice can be a great substitute for quinoa.

Vegetables

• Potatoes: Diced potatoes can make the soup even heartier.
• Broccoli or Cauliflower: Small florets can add texture and nutrition.
• Kale: A substitute for spinach, but it’ll need more time to soften.
• Peas or Green Beans: For a bit of bite and freshness.
• Bell Peppers: Sliced or diced bell peppers can introduce a slight sweetness.
• Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms can offer an earthy undertone.
• Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn kernels can add sweetness and a pop of color.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making Soup

Making a delicious soup can be both an art and a science. Here are some tried-and-true tips and tricks for soup perfection:

Prepping Tips

• Mise en Place: Before starting, prepare all your ingredients. This French term means “everything in its place” and ensures a smooth cooking process.
• Uniformity: When chopping vegetables, aim for consistent sizes. This ensures even cooking and a balanced texture in each bite.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients you can find. If using older vegetables, soups can be a great way to use them, but the flavor of fresh produce often shines through.

Cooking Time Tips

• Layering Flavors: Start with a base (like onions, garlic, and celery) and sauté until softened. This base, often called a mirepoix, creates a flavor foundation.
• Slow Simmer: Let the soup simmer gently rather than boiling rapidly once all ingredients are in. A slow simmer helps meld flavors without making vegetables too mushy.
• Meat Considerations: If using tougher cuts of meat, they’ll need longer to become tender. On the other hand, delicate meats or seafood should be added towards the end to avoid overcooking.

Nutritional Values  

Dive into the nutritious world of Creamy Quinoa Soup. Packed with protein-rich quinoa and essential vitamins from veggies, this soup is a delicious health powerhouse. Savor each spoonful of wellness!

What Are Total Calories In The Soup?

The Creamy Quinoa Soup’s total caloric content is influenced by its rich ingredients. With its wholesome quinoa, indulgent heavy cream, nourishing vegetables, and essential oils, this soup can be estimated to contain approximately 2,736 calories for the entire pot. 

Dietary Restrictions For The Creamy Quinoa Soup

The Creamy Quinoa Soup, as described, might not be suitable for everyone due to dietary restrictions. Here are some potential dietary concerns:

• Dairy: The soup contains heavy cream, which is not suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy.
• Gluten: While the core ingredients of the soup are naturally gluten-free, some store-bought broths or seasoning mixes might contain gluten. Those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities should ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: The soup uses chicken broth, making it unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans. However, it can be easily adapted by using vegetable broth and plant-based cream.

Health Benefits Of The Creamy Quinoa Soup

Creamy Quinoa Soup is not just a delight to the palate, but it also brings along several health benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional perks:

• Quinoa Boost: Quinoa is a complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids. It’s also rich in fiber, magnesium, B vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin E, and various antioxidants.
• Vegetable Goodness: With ingredients like spinach, celery, carrots, and red onion, the soup provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. These vegetables contribute to improved digestion, better skin health, and a stronger immune system.
• Heart Health: Olive oil, a key ingredient, contains monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy fats. They can reduce bad cholesterol levels, potentially lowering the risk of heart disease.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Creamy Quinoa Soup Lower In Sodium? 

• Low-Sodium Broth: Opt for a low-sodium or unsalted chicken broth. If you’re making your own broth, limit or exclude the addition of salt.
• Rinse Canned Goods: If using canned chickpeas or tomatoes, rinse them thoroughly under cold water to wash away some of the added salt. Opt for no-salt-added versions if available.
• Limit Salt Addition: Reduce the amount of added salt during cooking, and increase the use of herbs and spices for flavor.
• Fresh Tomatoes: Consider using fresh tomatoes instead of canned, as they typically contain less sodium.
• Herbs and Spices: Enhance the soup’s flavor with fresh or dried herbs like basil, thyme, oregano, and rosemary. Natural flavors like lemon zest or a splash of vinegar can also elevate the taste without adding sodium.

How Can I Make Creamy Quinoa Soup Lower In Sugar?

• Opt for No-Sugar-Added Ingredients: Some canned and diced tomato sauces might have added sugars. Always check labels and select no-sugar-added versions or use fresh tomatoes.
• Avoid Sweetened Cream: Some varieties of cream, especially flavored ones, may have added sugars. Use plain heavy cream or other unsweetened alternatives.
• Rinse Canned Goods: Rinsing chickpeas can reduce sodium and wash away any potential sugars present in the canning liquid.
• Natural Flavor Enhancers: Instead of relying on sweet ingredients, bolster the soup’s flavor with herbs and spices. Fresh basil, oregano, and thyme can intensify the taste without adding sugar.
• Taste as You Cook: As you make adjustments to reduce sugar, taste the soup periodically. This ensures that you’re still achieving the desired flavor profile.

How To Serve Creamy Quinoa Soup In The Best Way?

Serving the Creamy Quinoa Soup in the best manner can enhance the dining experience. Here are some suggestions to consider:

• Temperature: Ensure the soup is served hot. If prepared ahead of time, gently reheat on the stove until it reaches the desired temperature.
• Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs such as parsley, basil, or chives can add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can also complement the soup’s creaminess.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread or fresh baguette on the side to soak up the rich flavors. Garlic bread or herb-infused olive oil for dipping can also be a delightful addition.
• Salad Pairing: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the soup’s richness, making for a wholesome meal.
• Cheese: Grate some Parmesan, Asiago, or feta cheese on top just before serving for an added layer of flavor.
• Serve in Bowls: Using wide, shallow bowls can showcase the soup’s texture and ingredients. Ensure the bowls are warmed slightly to keep the soup hot for longer.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement The Creamy Quinoa Soup

Pairing the right side dishes with Creamy Quinoa Soup can elevate the meal, balancing flavors and textures. Here are some side dishes that complement this rich and hearty soup:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh baguette or artisanal bread can be perfect for dipping and soaking up the soup. Garlic or herb-infused bread can add an extra layer of flavor.
• Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Veggies like Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or carrots roasted with garlic, olive oil, and herbs can be a warm and satisfying addition.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing, the crispy texture, and melted cheese can be delightful with the soup’s creaminess.
• Quiche or Savory Tart: A slice of quiche or a savory tart, such as one with caramelized onions and goat cheese, can be a rich addition to the meal.

How Long Can We Store The Soup?

The storage duration of Creamy Quinoa Soup depends on how you store it:

Refrigerator

• Once the soup has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezer

• If you plan to freeze the soup, it’s often best to do so before adding the heavy cream, as dairy can sometimes separate or become grainy once frozen and then reheated.
• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving an inch or so of space at the top for expansion.
• Properly stored, the soup can last in the freezer for 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated soup: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. If the soup has thickened after being in the fridge, you might need to add a splash of broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
• For frozen soup: It’s best to thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. If you’ve frozen the soup without the cream, add it during the reheating process. If reheating directly from frozen, allow for a longer cooking time and consider using a lower heat to prevent burning.

Can I Make Soup In Advance?

Making soup in advance is a popular strategy for meal planning, entertaining, or just ensuring you have a hearty meal ready for future days. Here’s how you can go about it:

• Cooling: After cooking your soup, let it cool to room temperature. This helps prevent bacteria growth and maintains the soup’s flavor and texture.
• Storage Containers: Use airtight containers to store the soup. This not only preserves the flavor but also ensures no contaminants get inside. If storing for an extended period in the freezer, consider portioning the soup into individual servings so you can thaw only what you need.
• Dairy Considerations: If your soup recipe, like the Creamy Quinoa Soup, contains dairy, it’s often best to make the soup without adding it if you’re planning to freeze it. Dairy can sometimes separate or develop a grainy texture when frozen and then reheated. Instead, add the dairy during reheating to maintain a smooth consistency.
• Duration: While the soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, freezing can extend its life to 2-3 months, making it perfect for advance preparation.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

Maximizing the use of leftover Creamy Quinoa Soup can be both fun and resourceful. Here are some inventive ways to repurpose those leftovers:

• Grain Bowl Base: Use the soup as a base layer in grain bowls, topped with roasted veggies, protein, and a drizzle of dressing.
• Pasta Sauce: Reduce the soup on the stovetop to thicken and toss with your favorite pasta.
• Casserole Foundation: Mix with cooked chicken, vegetables, and top with breadcrumbs or cheese, then bake.
• Stuffed Vegetables: Use as a filling for bell peppers or zucchini boats.
• Pie Filling: Pour into a pie crust, top with a second crust or mashed potatoes, and bake.
• Sandwich Spread: Blend into a smoother consistency and use as a spread on sandwiches or wraps.
• Flatbread Topping: Spread on flatbread, add toppings, and bake for a unique pizza variant.
• Enchilada Filling: Use as a filling for enchiladas, top with sauce and cheese, then bake.
• Quiche Ingredient: Mix with eggs and pour into a pie crust for a quinoa-based quiche.
• Risotto Enhancer: Mix with risotto rice for a creamier texture and added flavor.

Special Tools/Equipment Needed

For preparing Creamy Quinoa Soup, the tools and equipment you’ll need are relatively basic and can be found in most kitchens. Here’s a list of essentials:

• Large Saucepan or Dutch Oven: To cook the soup in. A Dutch oven retains heat well and promotes even cooking.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping and dicing the vegetables and other ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate measurements of the ingredients, especially for the quinoa and liquids.
• Wooden Spoon or Ladle: Useful for stirring the soup, providing even cooking, and serving.
• Can Opener: If you’re using canned tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, or chickpeas.
• Strainer: Useful for rinsing the quinoa and draining canned ingredients if needed.
• Blender (optional): If you prefer a smoother texture for your soup, a blender or immersion (stick) blender can puree a portion or all of the soup.
• Storage Containers: If you’re planning to store leftovers, you’ll need airtight containers suitable for refrigeration or freezing.
• Bowls: For serving the soup.
• Ladle: For serving the soup from the pot to bowls.
• Peeler: Useful for peeling vegetables like carrots.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I Freeze Creamy Quinoa Soup?

Yes, you can. However, if you plan to freeze the soup, it’s advisable to do so before adding the heavy cream to prevent potential texture changes during reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw, reheat, and then stir in the cream.

Is This Soup Suitable For Children?

Absolutely! The Creamy Quinoa Soup is both delicious and nutritious. It’s a great way to introduce kids to quinoa and vegetables. Just ensure the soup is at a safe temperature before serving.

What Can I Use As A Substitute For Heavy Cream?

If you’re looking to replace heavy cream, options include half-and-half, whole milk, or for a dairy-free alternative, you can use coconut milk or cashew cream.

Why Is My Quinoa Still Hard After Cooking?

Quinoa needs to be cooked thoroughly to become soft. If it remains hard, it might not have been cooked long enough or might not have had enough liquid. Ensure you follow the specified cooking times and adjust if necessary.

Is There A Difference Between White, Red, And Black Quinoa In This Recipe?

All three types can be used in the recipe. White quinoa tends to have a softer texture when cooked, while red and black quinoa maintain a slightly firmer texture and have a bit more “bite” to them. The choice comes down to personal preference and desired texture.