Soup is one of those comforting foods that can turn a cold, dreary day into something warm and cozy. Among the many types of soups you can make, broth-based soups hold a special place. They’re light yet full of flavor, and because they aren’t laden with cream or heavy ingredients, they have a refreshing quality to them. Plus, broth-based soups offer a versatility that lets you get creative with your ingredients.
Whether you’re looking for something quick and easy to prepare or a dish that requires some tender care, a broth-based soup can satisfy your cravings. From hearty vegetable broths to protein-packed chicken soups, the possibilities are endless. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into a fantastic broth-based soup recipe, break down the ingredients, offer some expert tips, explore variations, and help you master the art of soup making.
Grab your apron and let’s get started!
Broth Based Soup Recipe
If you want a recipe that’s full of flavor, easy to make, and perfect for any time of the year, this Classic Chicken Broth Soup is an ideal choice. With a clean and light broth, packed with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this soup is the perfect balance between simplicity and deliciousness.
Ingredients Needed
- Chicken (bone-in, skinless) – 2 pounds (for a deeper flavor)
- Carrots – 2 large, sliced
- Celery stalks – 2, chopped
- Yellow onion – 1 medium, diced
- Garlic cloves – 3, minced
- Fresh thyme – 2-3 sprigs
- Bay leaves – 2
- Whole black peppercorns – 1 tablespoon
- Parsley – Fresh, a handful, for garnish
- Salt – To taste
- Water – 6 cups (enough to cover the ingredients)
Cooking Instructions
Making a broth-based soup can be surprisingly simple, especially when you let the ingredients speak for themselves. Here’s how to make it:
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Prepare The Chicken
Start by placing your chicken (bone-in and skinless) into a large stockpot. The bones help create a richer broth, while the skinless chicken ensures that the soup remains light. Pour in 6 cups of water, covering the chicken completely.
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Add Vegetables And Aromatics
Once your chicken is in the pot, add the chopped carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. These vegetables will release their flavors into the broth and give it a natural sweetness. Add the fresh thyme sprigs, bay leaves, and peppercorns for a depth of flavor.
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Simmer The Soup
Bring the soup to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then lower the heat and let it simmer. Allow it to simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. During this time, the chicken will tenderize, and the vegetables and herbs will infuse the broth with their natural flavors.
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Remove The Chicken And Shred It
After simmering, carefully remove the chicken from the pot. Let it cool for a few minutes before shredding it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside the chicken.
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Strain The Broth
For a perfectly clear broth, strain the liquid to remove the vegetables, herbs, and any chicken bits. This step will leave you with a beautifully clean broth. You can discard the vegetables and herbs or use them in other dishes.
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Return The Chicken To The Broth
Add the shredded chicken back to the broth, stir to combine, and taste for seasoning. Add salt to taste and bring the soup back to a simmer.
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Garnish And Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve with a side of crusty bread, if you like.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the role each ingredient plays in your broth can elevate your soup-making game. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients:
- Chicken (bone-in, skinless): The bones are the secret to creating a rich, flavorful base. They release collagen into the broth, which adds a silky texture and depth of flavor. Skinless chicken keeps the soup light while still providing protein.
- Carrots: They add natural sweetness and a slight earthiness. Carrots also contribute to the color of the broth, giving it a golden hue.
- Celery: This vegetable offers a subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness of the carrots and onions, helping to round out the flavors of the broth.
- Onion and Garlic: These two ingredients are the foundational flavor builders in any savory dish. Onions bring sweetness and depth, while garlic adds a punch of aromatic heat.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves infuse the broth with subtle earthiness. They’re aromatic without overpowering the more delicate flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
- Black Peppercorns: Whole peppercorns are a great way to add a peppery kick without it being too overwhelming. They also help bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Expert Tips
- Slow Simmering Is Key: While it’s tempting to rush through the cooking process, allowing the soup to simmer slowly is essential for drawing out the full depth of flavors from the bones and vegetables.
- Use a Cheesecloth for Herbs: If you want to avoid fishing out individual thyme sprigs and bay leaves later, consider tying them in a piece of cheesecloth or a herb sachet. This makes it easy to remove them once the soup is done.
- Skim the Fat: As the soup simmers, you’ll notice a layer of fat collecting on the surface. Skim this off periodically to keep the broth clean and light.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: While simmering is important, don’t let the chicken overcook. Remove it as soon as it’s tender enough to shred with a fork to avoid drying it out.
Recipe Variations
This chicken broth soup is just the beginning. You can tweak it to fit your preferences or try different variations:
- Add Noodles or Rice: If you want to make the soup heartier, add noodles or rice during the last 20 minutes of simmering. Egg noodles work particularly well in broth-based soups.
- Use Different Protein: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, try substituting with turkey, beef, or even a vegetarian option like tofu or tempeh. Each protein will bring its own unique flavor to the broth.
- Add More Vegetables: Want to make your soup more robust? Add potatoes, leeks, parsnips, or spinach. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them early enough for them to cook through.
- Spice It Up: If you love a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the broth for a warming kick.
- Herb Variations: While thyme and bay leaves are classic, you can switch things up with rosemary, sage, or even dill for a different aromatic profile.
Final Words
Broth-based soups are like a blank canvas. While simple in concept, they are incredibly versatile, allowing you to adapt and modify them to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a more filling dish, a well-crafted broth-based soup can be your go-to solution. And if you ever find yourself in need of comfort, this classic chicken broth recipe is sure to warm you from the inside out.