15-Minutes Popcorn Soup Recipe – A Delightful Fusion

Indulge in the comforting flavors of a dish that transforms a classic favorite into an elegant culinary delight – popcorn soup recipe. This intriguing recipe is a harmony of familiar tastes blended into a creamy, savory creation that surprises the palate.

This soup marries the cherished buttery flavor of popcorn with rich, velvety textures, perfect for a cozy evening or as a sophisticated starter for a gourmet dinner party. 

Experience the warmth of tradition combined with a contemporary twist, as this dish invites you to savor, enjoy, and immerse yourself in a unique gastronomic adventure. 

Popcorn soup is more than a meal; it’s an invitation to explore new culinary horizons. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious food enthusiast, this recipe will inspire you to relish every spoonful.

What Is Popcorn Soup?

Popcorn soup is a novel culinary creation that combines the beloved taste of popcorn with the richness of a creamy soup. 

This recipe creates a unique and delightful dish by infusing the buttery flavor of freshly popped popcorn into a blend of broth, cream, and aromatic herbs and spices. 

Perfect as a whimsical starter or a portion of cozy comfort food, popcorn soup is a conversation starter that adds a playful yet sophisticated touch to any meal.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

The popcorn soup recipe can be varied to cater to different dietary requirements, including Keto, Paleo, Gluten-Free, Whole30, Vegetarian, and Vegan. Here’s how:

Keto

• Replace flour with a low-carb thickening agent like xanthan gum.
• Use heavy cream instead of half and half.

Paleo

• Substitute flour with a paleo-friendly option like almond flour or arrowroot powder.
• Use coconut cream instead of half and half.

Gluten-Free

• Replace the regular flour with a gluten-free option such as rice flour or a gluten-free blend.

Whole30

• Substitute flour with arrowroot powder or another Whole30-compliant thickener.
• Replace half and half with almond milk or coconut cream, and ensure the popped corn is free from non-compliant additives.

Vegetarian

• The existing recipe is vegetarian-friendly, so no changes are needed.

Vegan

• Replace butter with vegan butter or olive oil.
• Substitute half and half with a plant-based milk like almond, coconut, or soy milk.
• Use a vegan thickening agent instead of flour, such as cornstarch mixed with water.

Recipe Directions

• Start by melting butter in a pan, then add onions and parsley flakes. Sauté this mixture until the onions become tender, a process taking roughly 8 minutes.
• Next, add flour to the sautéed onions, sprinkling it evenly. Stir until combined but be prepared for a lumpy consistency; it’s a normal process stage.
• Once the flour is incorporated, it’s time for the half-and-half cream. Gradually pour it in, stirring constantly to ensure a smooth and creamy texture develops in your mixture.
• The next step is to add the Corn. Stir it in and cook until the mixture slightly thickens, usually around 5 minutes, imparting a pleasant sweetness and a bit of bite.
• To enhance the overall flavor, season your dish with salt and pepper. The quantities should be to your liking, balancing the sweetness of Corn and the richness of the cream.
• Now, ladle the soup into bowls. To add a final touch, garnish each bowl with popped Corn, offering a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup, elevating the eating experience.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• Go Vegan: Use plant-based milk and vegan butter.
• Add Spice: Incorporate chili flakes for a kick.
• Make It Creamier: Swap half and half with heavy cream.

Add-Ons

• Add Protein: Stir in shredded chicken or tofu.
• Enhance Flavor: Mix in roasted garlic or sautéed leeks.
• Increase Nutrients: Include spinach or kale.

Toppings

• Boost Crunch: Top with extra popcorn or croutons.
• Add Freshness: Garnish with chopped chives or parsley.
• Elevate Luxury: Drizzle with truffle oil.
• Create Color: Sprinkle with paprika or a pinch of turmeric.

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

You can make popcorn soup in both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot, each providing a unique method and texture to the dish. Here’s how:

In a Slow Cooker

• Sauté Ingredients: In a separate pan, sauté the onion in butter with parsley flakes until tender, and then stir in the flour.
• Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed mixture to the slow cooker, and add the half and half, corn, salt, and pepper.
• Cook Slowly: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until flavors meld and soup thickens slightly.
• Garnish and Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with popped Corn before serving.

In an Instant Pot

• Sauté Inside Pot: Use the sauté function to cook the onion in butter with parsley flakes. Sprinkle in flour and stir, then add half and half, Corn, salt, and pepper.
• Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
• Quick Release: Perform a quick release of pressure and carefully open the lid.
• Stir and Garnish: Mix the soup well, ladle it into bowls, and garnish with popped Corn.

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

You can certainly use store-bought broth in the popcorn soup recipe if you’d like to add some additional depth of flavor or if you’re looking to replace some of the half-and-half for a lighter version. The store-bought broth is convenient and comes in various flavors (chicken, vegetable, beef) to suit your taste preferences.

However, if you have the time and inclination, making your own broth can provide a richer and more nuanced flavor. Homemade broth allows you to control the ingredients and seasoning to match your desired flavor profile.

• Store-Bought Broth: Convenient, quick, and available in various flavors. Look for low-sodium or organic options if you have specific dietary needs.
• Homemade Broth: More time-consuming but offers greater control over flavor and quality. It can be made in advance and frozen for future use.

How To Serve?

Serving the popcorn soup recipe with flair and attention to detail can elevate the dining experience. Here’s how to serve it best:

• Pre-Warm Bowls: Serve the soup in pre-warmed bowls to ensure it stays hot for longer. You can warm them in a low oven or by filling them with hot water and then emptying them just before serving.
• Garnish with Popped Corn: As the name suggests, popcorn is a key garnish. Sprinkle freshly popped Corn on top just before serving to add texture and reinforce the theme of the dish.
• Add Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives can add color and flavor. Make sure the herbs complement the flavor profile of the soup.
• Include a Dairy Swirl: If desired, you can swirl a little cream, sour cream, or a dairy-free alternative on top of the soup for a luxurious touch.
• Offer Additional Seasoning: Provide salt, pepper, and perhaps a flavored oil or hot sauce on the table so guests can adjust the seasoning to their taste.
• Serve with Accompaniments: Consider offering crusty bread, breadsticks, or a simple side salad to complete the meal.
• Mind the Portion Sizes: Serve appropriate portions depending on whether the soup is a starter or a main course.
• Use Quality Serve Ware: Presentation matters, so use attractive bowls and serving utensils that complement the style of the meal.
• Serve at the Right Temperature: Ensure the soup is served hot but not scalding. If made ahead of time, reheat gently to the desired temperature.
• Offer Variations: If you have guests with dietary restrictions, alternative garnishes or sides are available to suit their needs.

Perfect Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread or Breadsticks: The texture of warm, crusty bread or breadsticks pairs wonderfully with the creamy consistency of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing with soup, the crispy, cheesy goodness can add a comforting touch.
• Light Green Salad: A refreshing salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette can contrast the rich soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables can add color and nutrition, making the meal more complete.
• Quinoa Salad: A chilled quinoa salad with fresh herbs, lemon zest, and vegetables can add a wholesome, protein-rich component.
• Cheese Platter: Serve with a selection of cheeses, crackers, and some fruit for a more sophisticated accompaniment.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: For a more substantial meal, stuffed bell peppers with rice, vegetables, and protein can be a delightful pairing.
• Cornbread: Enhance the corn theme with a side of sweet or savory cornbread.
• Steamed Asparagus or Green Beans: Simple steamed or sautéed greens with a touch of lemon can add a fresh and healthy contrast.
• Herb-Roasted Potatoes: If you want to keep the meal hearty, consider some herb-roasted potatoes on the side.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad can cleanse the palate for a refreshing and light finish.
• Chilled Cucumber Soup: If serving popcorn soup as a starter, a chilled cucumber soup can be an interesting follow-up to a multi-course meal.

Storage & Make Ahead

• Refrigeration: Store leftover popcorn soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be mindful that the texture of popcorn may change when reheated.
• Freezing: Popcorn soup may not freeze well due to the texture alteration of popcorn. It’s recommended to consume it fresh.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the soup base in advance, excluding the popcorn. Refrigerate the base for up to 24 hours. Just before serving, reheat the base and add freshly popped popcorn for a delightful crunch.
• Popcorn Topping: To maintain the crunchiness, consider keeping a separate batch of popcorn and sprinkle it on each serving just before consumption.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

Leftover popcorn soup doesn’t have to go to waste; it can be creatively repurposed:

• Reheat for Later: Store in the fridge and reheat for another comforting meal within 3-4 days.
• Freeze for Future Use: Portion and freeze leftovers for a quick, homemade meal on a busy day.
• Create a New Dish: Use the soup as a base for a casserole, adding vegetables, grains, or protein.
• Make a Dip: Thicken the soup with some cream cheese or pureed beans, and use it as a dip for chips or crackers.
• Add to a Stew: Incorporate leftovers into a hearty stew with additional meat or vegetables.
• Use as a Sauce: Reduce the soup further to create a unique sauce for pasta, rice, or grilled meats.
• Stir into Risotto: Enhance the flavor of a simple risotto by stirring in some leftover soup.
• Serve as a Side: Offer the reheated soup as a side dish with a main course, adjusting flavors to complement the meal.

15-Minutes Popcorn Soup Recipe – A Delightful Fusion

5 from 7 votes

Recipe by Hanna Barnes Course: Soup Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories

180

kcal

Popcorn soup is a delightful fusion of comfort and creativity, marrying the rich creaminess of a well-seasoned soup base with the playful crunch of popcorn.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup 1/2 Butter

• 1 1 Onion, chopped

• 1 tablespoon 1 Dried Parsley

• 1/4 cup 1/4 All-Purpose Flour

• 2 quarts 2 Half-and-Half Cream

• 15.25 cans 15.25 Whole Kernel Corn (canned)

• Salt (To taste)

• Ground Black Pepper (To taste)

Step-By-Step Directions

• Prepare Ingredients: Chop the onion and measure out the butter, parsley flakes, flour, half-and-half, Corn, salt, and pepper.
• Saute Onion: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and parsley flakes. Saute until the onion becomes tender, about 8 minutes.
• Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the mixture. Stir well, noting that it will be lumpy at this stage.
• Add Cream: Gradually pour in the half-and-half, continuously stirring to create a smooth and creamy mixture.
• Add Corn: Stir in the canned Corn and continue cooking until the mixture slightly thickens, about 5 minutes.
• Seasoning: Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
• Blending (Optional): For a smoother texture, you can blend the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender.
• Final Touches: Adjust seasoning if needed, and heat to the desired serving temperature.
• Serving: Ladle the soup into individual bowls.
• Garnish: Top each bowl with freshly popped Corn, serving immediately to enjoy the contrast of textures.
• Additional Options: Serve with crusty bread or a side salad, and explore different popcorn flavors for garnish if desired.
• EQUIPMENT LIST
• Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven
• Immersion Blender or Regular Blender
• Whisk
• Ladle
• Heat-Resistant Spatula or Wooden Spoon
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Popcorn Maker or Stovetop Pan
• Fine-Mesh Strainer
• Airtight Containers
• Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
• Thermometer

Notes

• Garnish Timing: Add popcorn garnish just before serving to maintain its crispiness.
• Dietary Variations: Can be adapted for gluten-free, vegetarian, or other special diets.
• Freezing: Suitable for freezing without garnish; thaw and reheat gently.
• Serving Suggestions: It pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
• Reheating Dairy-Based Soups: Reheat gently if the soup contains dairy to prevent curdling.
• Popcorn Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with flavored popcorn for an extra twist.
• Vegan Options: Substitute dairy with plant-based alternatives for a vegan version.
• Salt and Sugar Control: Adjust seasonings to meet specific dietary needs, such as low-sodium or low-sugar diets.
• Preparation in Advance: Proper cooling and storage procedures can be followed beforehand.

Nutrition Table 

• Author
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Hanna Barnes

Hanna is a writer at Soup Chick. Yulia's website reignited her passion for crafting affordable, veggie-packed soups. She is certified by the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts and has expertise in healthy, baking, and vegan cuisine. With years of food blogging and collaborating with chefs, she offers a range of recipes on Soup Chick, from classic broths to the heavenly slow cooker chicken tortilla soup. Join her in creating flavorsome, wholesome soups in your kitchen!

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