In the heart of every kitchen lies a tale of forgotten ingredients: half-used veggies, a leftover slice of roast, or that last bit of pasta. Kitchen Sink Soup is a delicious symphony that marries these diverse elements into one harmonious bowl.

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Each spoonful narrates stories of past meals, celebrating the art of utilizing every corner of your pantry.

This recipe is perfect for when the fridge bursts with odds and ends, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Relish in the richness of flavors and savor the memories in this warming, heart-filled creation. Dive in, and let the journey of your kitchen’s tales unfold in every bite.

What Is A Kitchen Sink Soup Recipe?

A Kitchen Sink Soup, often referred to as “everything but the kitchen sink” soup, is a versatile and eclectic soup made by combining a wide variety of leftover ingredients and pantry staples.

The concept is to use up any odds and ends of vegetables, meats, grains, and legumes that might otherwise go to waste. This results in a unique and ever-changing flavor profile with each batch.

Kitchen Sink Soup embodies creativity in the kitchen, allowing cooks to improvise and experiment, creating a hearty and flavorful dish that’s both resourceful and satisfying.

History Of Kitchen Sink Soup Recipe

While not rooted in a singular culture, Kitchen Sink Soup echoes global traditions of maximizing resources and minimizing waste.

Throughout history, from Europe’s pot-au-feu to Asia’s congee, societies crafted meals using leftovers to ensure sustenance without excess.

Such practices were driven by economic necessity, seasonality, and frugality. The term “Kitchen Sink” in the West denotes using all available ingredients, much like “throwing everything but the kitchen sink” into the pot.

This soup symbolizes the timeless art of culinary improvisation and resourcefulness.

Interesting Facts About The Kitchen Sink Soup Recipe

Global Reflection: Many cultures have a version of this soup, from Spanish “cocido” to Korean “jjigae.”
Seasonally Adaptive: The recipe can change with the seasons, spotlighting spring veggies or winter root vegetables.
No Two Bowls Alike: Given its improvisational nature, having two identical pots of Kitchen Sink Soup is rare.
Waste Reducer: It’s an eco-friendly recipe that drastically reduces food waste.
Rich in Nutrients: Merging varied ingredients often results in a nutrient-dense meal.
Historic Roots: During the Great Depression, similar soups were made to stretch limited resources.

What Makes The Kitchen Sink Soup Recipe Special?

Versatility: Adapts seamlessly to whatever ingredients are on hand.
Sustainability: Reduces food waste, embracing an eco-conscious ethos.
Cultural Tapestry: Mirrors global traditions, showcasing the universality of resourceful cooking.
Nutritional Variety: Diverse ingredients ensure a medley of vitamins and minerals.
Culinary Adventure: Each preparation can create a new, delightful flavor profile.
Economical: An ideal way to stretch the budget without compromising taste.

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken broth	10 cups
Potatoes, cubed	2
Carrots, sliced	2
Celery, diced	2 stalks
Fresh mushrooms, sliced	5
Green bell pepper, chopped	1
Fresh broccoli, chopped	1
Cauliflower florets	4 cups
Parsnip, sliced	1
Onion, chopped	1
Green peas	1 cup
Cut green beans, drained	1 cup
Wax beans, drained	1 cup
Cooked chickpeas	1/2 cup
Cooked navy beans	1/2 cup
Salt and pepper	To taste
Dried parsley	1 teaspoon

Ingredient Tips

Broth: Homemade stocks impart richer flavors, but store-bought is a quick substitute.
Potatoes: Opt for waxy varieties; they hold their shape better during cooking.
Carrots & Celery: Freshness matters! Ensure they’re crisp for the best texture and taste.
Mushrooms: Clean gently with a damp cloth; never soak as they absorb water.
Bell Peppers: For a sweeter taste, red or yellow peppers can be used.
Broccoli & Cauliflower: Overcooking makes them mushy; add later for a firmer texture.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

Keto: Prioritize low-carb veggies like spinach and zucchini while omitting starchy like potatoes. Add more fats via avocados or olives.
Paleo: Stick to whole ingredients. Exclude beans and legumes. Consider adding lean meats or fish.
Gluten-Free: Ensure the broth is gluten-free. Most vegetables are naturally so, but always check product labels for additives.
Whole30: Avoid legumes, grains, and dairy. Opt for a compliant broth and focus on meats and veggies.
Vegetarian/Vegan: Use vegetable broth as the base. Omit chicken and replace it with hearty veggies or tofu. For added protein, include legumes like lentils or chickpeas for vegetarians and a variety of beans for vegans.

Recipe Directions

Setting the Stage: Begin by mentioning the “generously sized stockpot” to create an image of a substantial and flavorful dish being prepared.
Emphasize Diversity: Use the phrase “meld together a harmonious ensemble of all your chosen ingredients” to highlight the variety of ingredients coming together.
Simmering Transformation: Describe the cooking process as a “symphony of aromas” and the lid “partially atop the pot” to convey the gradual transformation and mingling of flavors.
Time and Patience: Emphasize the need for patience by suggesting to “patiently await 30 minutes.” This adds a sense of anticipation and care to the cooking process.
Vegetable Tenderization: Mention that the goal is to ensure “vegetables embrace a tender disposition,” underlining the desired outcome of well-cooked, soft vegetables.
Culinary Culmination: Paint a picture of the final moment when the “symphony of aromas reaches its crescendo” to create a sensory image of the dish’s readiness.
Serving Ritual: Use words like “anticipation” and “delight” to evoke the emotions of doing and enjoying the prepared dish.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

Base: Swap chicken broth with beef, vegetables, or seafood for different flavor profiles.
Protein: Introduce tofu, tempeh, shredded chicken, diced beef, or fish.

Add-Ons

Grains: For added heartiness, Quinoa, barley, or rice can be stirred in.
Legumes: Lentils, black beans, or kidney beans are excellent additions for vegetarians.
Greens: Spinach, kale, or chard wilted in the last few minutes adds nutrition and color.

Toppings

Cheese: Sprinkle with Parmesan, cheddar, or vegan alternatives.
Herbs: Fresh cilantro, basil, or dill can uplift flavors.
Crunch: Toasted seeds (pumpkin or sunflower) or croutons for texture.
Heat: A drizzle of chili oil or a dash of red pepper flakes.

Scaling The Recipe

Proportionality: Maintain ingredient ratios. If you’re doubling the recipe, double all ingredients.
Volume: Ensure your cooking vessel can accommodate the increased or decreased quantity. Overcrowding can affect cooking times and evenness.
Cooking Time: While the soup’s base may need similar simmering time, denser vegetables might require longer to become tender when increased. Check regularly.
Taste: Scaling can sometimes alter flavor intensity. Always taste and adjust seasonings accordingly.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

Herbs: Fresh chopped parsley, cilantro, dill, or basil add color and flavor.
Seeds & Nuts: Toasted pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or slivered almonds introduce a delightful crunch.
Cheese: A grated Parmesan, cheddar, or crumbled feta can elevate the dish’s richness.
Oils: Drizzles of olive oil, truffle, or chili oil enhance depth and aroma.
Citrus: A twist of lemon or lime zest brightens the soup.
Cream: A swirl of sour cream, yogurt, or coconut milk adds creaminess and a visual contrast.

Can I Make Kitchen Sink Soup Recipe In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

Preparation: Chop all ingredients and place them in the slow cooker.
Cooking: Set low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The prolonged cooking melds flavors beautifully and ensures vegetables are tender.
Finish: Before serving, adjust seasonings as needed.

Instant Pot

Sauté: Use the sauté function to brown any desired ingredients, like onions or meat lightly.
Pressure Cook: Add all ingredients, secure the lid, and set on manual high pressure for 15-20 minutes.
Release: Allow natural pressure to release for 10 minutes, then vent to remove the remaining pressure.
Serve: Adjust seasonings if necessary and enjoy.

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

Store-Bought Broth

Convenience: Ready-to-use saves time and effort, especially for spontaneous meals.
Variety: Available in multiple flavors (chicken, beef, vegetable, bone, and more) catering to specific recipe needs.
Consistency: Provides a predictable taste every time.

Homemade Broth

Flavor Control: You decide the depth of flavor, salt content, and ingredient mix.
Nutrition: Often richer in nutrients, especially if made with bone and simmered for hours.
Economical & Eco-friendly: Maximizes use of kitchen scraps and reduces packaging waste.

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

Meat/Fish

Beef: Cubed stew beef or shredded roast adds richness.
Poultry: Turkey or duck can be delightful alternatives to chicken.
Fish: Salmon, tilapia, or shrimp introduce a seafood twist.

Pasta

Shapes: From penne and fusilli to tortellini, choose based on your preference.
Whole Grain: For a health boost, consider whole wheat or quinoa pasta.

Vegetables

Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, or collard greens wilt seamlessly into the soup.
Root Vegetables: Turnips, beets, or sweet potatoes diversify the flavor profile.

Success Tips-Tips And Tricks For Making

Prepping Tips

Uniformity: Chop ingredients to consistent sizes for even cooking.
Freshness: Use fresh herbs and produce for optimal flavor.
Mise en Place: Organize and measure ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking process.

Cooking Tips

Start with Aromatics: First, Sauté onions, garlic, or celery to build a flavor foundation.
Layering: Add ingredients based on cooking times – hard veggies before softer ones.
Broth Quality: A good broth makes a difference; whether store-bought or homemade, ensure it’s flavorful.
Taste As You Go: Continuously adjust seasonings to develop depth.

Nutritional Values

Dive into the nutritional powerhouse of Kitchen Sink Soup! Packed with diverse veggies, this dish offers a rich blend of vitamins, minerals, and fibers. Boost your health with every delightful spoonful.

What Are The Total Calories In The Soup?

The main contributors to the calorie count are broth, potatoes, beans, and peas. However, the overall count would still be 180 calories, moderate due to the abundance of low-calorie vegetables.

Dietary Restrictions Of The Kitchen Sink Soup Recipe

Vegetarians/Vegans: The chicken broth base is unsuitable unless swapped for vegetable broth.
Gluten-Sensitive: Ensure the store-bought broth is gluten-free, as some may contain traces of gluten.
Low-Carb/Keto: Potatoes and sure beans could exceed carb limits.
Allergies: Some people have allergies to specific veggies, legumes, or additives in store-bought broths.
Paleo: Beans and legumes aren’t typically Paleo-friendly.
Low-FODMAP: Certain ingredients like onions and garlic could be problematic.

Health Benefits Of Kitchen Sink Soup Recipe

Vitamin Boost: Vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers provide vitamins A, C, and K.
Mineral Rich: Ingredients like chickpeas and navy beans are excellent iron, magnesium, and potassium sources.
Fiber: Vegetables and legumes promote digestive health with their high fiber content.
Low Fat: Predominantly vegetable-based, this soup is naturally low in saturated fats.
Immune Support: Chicken broth is renowned for its immunity-boosting properties.
Hydration: Its liquid content helps meet daily hydration needs.

Nutrition Table

How Can I Make Kitchen Sink Soup Recipe Lower In Sodium?

Broth: Choose low-sodium or unsalted store-bought broths. Alternatively, making homemade broth allows for complete sodium control.
Seasonings: Rely more on herbs (like basil, parsley, or thyme) and spices (like turmeric or paprika) to enhance flavor without added salt.
Canned Ingredients: If using canned beans, use no-salt-added varieties or rinse them thoroughly to wash off excess sodium.
Taste Before Serving: Often, recipes are over-salted. Taste the soup before serving, and adjust only if necessary.
Alternative Seasonings: Use alternatives like lemon juice or vinegar to boost flavor without increasing sodium.

How Can I Make Kitchen Sink Soup Recipe Lower In Sugar?

Broth Selection: Opt for store-bought broths without added sugars or make your own at home.
Natural Sweetness: Capitalize on naturally sweet vegetables, like carrots and bell peppers, instead of adding sugar or sugary ingredients.
Check Canned Goods: Some canned vegetables or beans might have added sugars. Always check labels and choose no-sugar-added versions.
Mind Natural Sugars: Some veggies, like peas, have natural sugars. If strictly minimizing sugar, be selective.
Enhance with Spices: Amplify taste with spices like paprika, black pepper, and basil instead of relying on sweeteners.

How To Serve The Kitchen Sink Soup Recipe At Its Best?

Temperature: Serve hot, letting the steam rise to accentuate its comforting aroma.
Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of yogurt can enhance flavor and visual appeal.
Accompaniment: Pair with crusty bread, buttered biscuits, or a side salad to complement its hearty nature.
Bowl Choice: A deep bowl retains warmth, ensuring every spoonful remains hot.
Spice on the Side: Offer guests chili flakes or freshly ground pepper to adjust the heat to their liking.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Kitchen Sink Soup Recipe

Crusty Bread: Ideal for dipping and soaking up the broth, enhancing the soup’s heartiness.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The gooeyness of melted cheese juxtaposed with the soup’s texture is divine.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness.
Roasted Veggies: Add another layer of earthy flavors and texture.
Quinoa or Rice Pilaf: A grain side offers a filling complement.
Flatbreads or Naan: These can be used for scooping, adding tactile pleasure.

How Long Can We Store The Soup?

Refrigeration: Transfer the soup to airtight containers once cooled to room temperature. It can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Freezing: For more extended storage, freeze the soup. Pour into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving an inch at the top for expansion. Properly stored, the soup can last for 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight when ready to eat. Reheat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a simmer.

Can I Make Soup In Advance?

Cooking: Prepare the Kitchen Sink Soup as directed, then let it cool to room temperature.
Storing: Transfer the chilled soup to airtight containers.
Refrigeration: Store in the fridge if consumed within 3-4 days.
Freezing: For more extended storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers.
Reheating: When ready, reheat on the stovetop or microwave.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

Stew Base: Thicken with a roux or cornstarch to create a hearty stew. Add meats or extra veggies.
Pasta Sauce: Blend smoothly, simmer until slightly thickened, and toss with your favorite pasta.
Casserole Filling: Use as a moist base in casseroles. Layer with grains or protein and bake.
Grain Bowls: Serve over rice, Quinoa, or barley for a quick grain bowl.
Bread Bowls: Hollow out crusty bread and pour heated soup inside.
Pot Pie: Use as filling for a homemade pot pie. Top with puff pastry and bake.

Special Tools And Equipment Needed

Stockpot or Dutch Oven: A large vessel to accommodate all the ingredients and ensure even cooking.
Sharp Knife: Crucial for efficiently chopping and slicing vegetables.
Cutting Board: Preferably a large one, making vegetable prep more manageable.
Measuring Cups and spoons: For precise ingredient portions.
Ladle: Facilitates stirring and serving.
Colander: Useful for draining canned beans and rinsing vegetables.
Vegetable Peeler: To peel vegetables like carrots and potatoes quickly.
Wooden Spoon: Helps in stirring without scratching your pot.
Blender (Optional): If you blend the soup for a creamy variation.
Thermometer: To ensure the soup is heated to a safe temperature upon reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead Of Fresh Ones For The Kitchen Sink Soup?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are often flash-frozen at peak freshness. They can be added directly to the soup, although the cooking time might vary slightly. Just ensure they’re heated thoroughly before serving.

I Need to get All The Listed Vegetables. Can I Still Make The Soup?

The beauty of Kitchen Sink Soup is its flexibility. You can substitute or omit vegetables based on what’s available. The key is to maintain a balance of flavors and textures.

How Can I Make This Soup More Protein-Rich?

Consider adding cooked diced chicken, tofu, lentils, or even chunks of fish. These additions boost the protein content while complementing the soup’s flavors.

My Soup Is Too Thin. How Can I Thicken It?

There are several ways to thicken soup: blend a portion of it and mix it back in, add a roux (a mixture of butter and flour), or stir in some cornstarch mixed with cold water and let it simmer.

Can I make this soup spicy?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or cayenne pepper. Adjust the heat level to your preference, and always add slowly, tasting as you go.

Easy Yet Simple Kitchen Sink Soup Recipe For Your Loved Ones

0 from 0 votes

Recipe by Hanna Barnes Course: Soup Recipes

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

150

kcal

Dive into the rich flavors of the Kitchen Sink Soup, a harmonious blend of fresh vegetables, beans, and savory broth. This heartwarming dish is a testament to simplicity’s beauty, offering comfort and nourishment in every spoonful.

Ingredients

Chicken broth
Potatoes, cubed
Carrots, sliced
Celery, diced
Fresh mushrooms, sliced
Green bell pepper, chopped
Fresh broccoli, chopped
Cauliflower florets
Parsnip, sliced
Onion, chopped
Green peas
Cut green beans, drained
Wax beans, drained
Cooked chickpeas
Cooked navy beans
Salt and pepper
Dried parsley

Step-By-Step Directions

Preparation Steps
Wash, peel (where necessary), and chop all vegetables into evenly sized pieces.
Measure out the chicken broth and gather all seasonings.
Cooking
Place a large stockpot on the stove over medium heat.
Combine all ingredients in the stockpot, ensuring they’re well-mixed.
Blending
Partially cover the stockpot with a lid, leaving a slight gap to release steam.
Final Touches
Allow the soup to simmer for about 30 minutes or until every vegetable is tender and flavors melded. Occasionally stir to prevent sticking.
Serving
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Serve alongside buttered biscuits for a heartwarming complement.
Additional Options
Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese for enhanced flavor. Adjust seasoning if desired before serving. If leftovers remain, store them in airtight containers for future enjoyment.

Recipe Video

https://youtu.be/VPw7aaZihGc?si=dDIfoaWC0_c2m_jg

Everything But The Kitchen Sink Soup (https://youtu.be/VPw7aaZihGc?si=dDIfoaWC0_c2m_jg)

Notes

The name “Kitchen Sink” symbolizes the inclusion of various ingredients, often whatever is available.
Adjusting liquid consistency is key. For a heartier soup, reduce the broth; for a lighter version, add more.
The recipe is versatile. Feel free to swap out or add ingredients as per seasonal availability.
A longer simmering time can enhance flavor depth.
Consider adding herbs like rosemary or bay leaves for an aromatic twist.
Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure a balanced flavor profile.
The soup’s flavor often improves the next day, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

Author
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Hanna Barnes

Hey everyone, my name is Hanna, and I am a writer here at Soup Chick! I came across Lana’s website a few years back, and it reignited my love for making homemade broths and soups that wouldn’t break the bank, and would help me get all of my veggies in!

Here at SoupChick.com, I can offer you a range of different recipes to try, from basic broths, to making your own slow cooker chicken tortilla soup (trust me on this one- it is divine).

I hope that you enjoy making your own as much as I love finding new recipes for you!