homemade soup

When the weather turns cold, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade soup to warm you up from the inside out. This hearty and comforting soup recipe is not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. Whether you’re craving something cozy for a chilly evening or looking for a comforting meal to enjoy with family and friends, this homemade soup is sure to hit the spot every time.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup uncooked wild rice blend
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 2 cups of water
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by cooking the chicken breasts. You can either boil them in a pot of water until fully cooked or use a slow cooker to cook them on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks and set aside.
2. Cook the Rice: In a separate pot, cook the wild rice blend according to the package instructions. Set aside once cooked.
3. Prepare the Soup Base: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the cooked shredded chicken and cooked wild rice to the pot. Stir in the garlic powder, dried thyme, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Allow the soup to come to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Thicken the Soup: In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and all-purpose flour until smooth. Slowly pour the mixture into the soup, stirring constantly, until the soup thickens slightly. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper if desired. Enjoy with crusty bread or your favorite crackers for a comforting meal.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
• Creamy Texture: If you prefer a creamier soup, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender before adding the heavy cream and flour mixture.
• Additional Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasoning of the soup to suit your taste. You can add herbs like rosemary, sage, or basil for extra flavor, or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Storage: This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken for this soup. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the soup during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.

Q: Can I freeze this soup? A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: Can I use different types of rice for this recipe? A: Absolutely! While wild rice blend adds a nice nutty flavor and texture to the soup, you can use any type of rice you have on hand, such as white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa.

Keto Version:

For a keto-friendly version of this soup, you can omit the wild rice and flour, and use heavy cream instead of water for extra richness. Load up on low-carb vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, and spinach to keep it hearty and satisfying.

This homemade soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that’s perfect for cold winter days or anytime you need a warm and satisfying meal. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you can whip up a batch of this delicious soup in no time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So grab a bowl, cozy up by the fire, and enjoy every spoonful of this hearty homemade soup!