Creating a Hearty and Healthy Soup

There is no denying that this January has given us plenty of bitter cold days, which is why it is very fitting that January has been named National Soup Month!  Not only is a bowl of soup warm and comforting in these cold winter months, but a pot of your favorite soup is versatile, easy to make and can provide a nourishing and healthy meal.

Though many people tend to prefer cream soups over broth soups because of their thick creamy flavor and filling consistency, these kinds of soups tend to be higher in fat than their broth based counterparts.  This does not mean, however, that you cannot find ways to make any soup you love both healthy and enjoyable.  Here are some great tips to guide you in making a hearty and healthy soup for January’s National Soup Month:

• Lower the fat content in cream soups by swapping out heavy cream for pureed cooked potatoes, squash or any other vegetable.  Stir in the pureed potatoes to add viscosity to your soup.  If you want to use cream, cut the amount that the recipe calls for in half – a little bit will go a long way!
• Add a variety of vegetables to your soup.  It is super easy to just throw in any vegetables into any soup recipe.  You can even microwave frozen vegetables while your soup is cooking and then mix them into the soup when they’re ready.
• Make your soup extra filling by pouring over a bed of whole grains.  This will provide substance and fiber to your meal to make it more satisfying.  Barley is a very common grain that pairs deliciously with any soup recipe.
• Legumes are another great addition to any soup which also adds fiber, protein, carbohydrate, vitamins and minerals.  Use cannellini beans for Italian style soups and black or pinto beans for southwestern types.
• When making a broth based soup, always try to purchase a reduced sodium chicken or vegetable stock.  Because stocks usually do have sodium, avoid adding extra salt to your soup.  To add extra flavor to your soup without using salt, use fresh herbs or seasonings – you will be surprised at how much flavor they add!
• Try to stay away from purchasing canned soups in that they tend to be very high in sodium.  It is just as easy to whip up a big pot of soup with any ingredients you want and you will be able to get a lot more servings than what a small can of soup offers.  If you do buy canned soups, always choose those that are reduced sodium.

Your turn to take action: What healthy ingredients do you love to add to your homemade soup?

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