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Category: Soups & Stews

Japanese Miso-Shiitake Soup

Japanese Miso-Shiitake Soup

Japanese Miso-Shiitake Soup

 

3 cups (225 g) shiitake mushrooms

2 Tablespoons soy sauce

½ cup (120 ml) olive oil

3 Tablespoons miso

1 piece (5 g) fresh ginger root

1 garlic clove

3 cups (720 ml) water

1 green onion, diced

 

Marinate mushrooms in soy sauce and 3 Tablespoons olive oil. Set aside to marinate. Place miso, remaining olive oil, ginger, garlic, and water into the Vitamix container in the order listed and secure lid. Select Variable 1. Turn machine on and slowly increase speed to Variable 10, then to High. Blend for 30 seconds. To serve, pour soup base into four bowls. Top each with marinated mushrooms and chopped green onion. Notes: Soup base with toppings will keep for one day. Soup base will keep for four days, and toppings will keep for two days in the fridge when stored separately. This recipe can be reduced by half and made in smaller containers.

Harvest Cheddar Soup

Harvest Cheddar Soup

Harvest Cheddar Soup

2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth

2 Tablespoons white wine

¼ (40 g) onion

½ (50 g) celery stalk

2 (400 g) granny smith apples

1 (285 g) russet potato

â…› teaspoon dried thyme

â…› teaspoon ground nutmeg

â…› teaspoon ground black pepper

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup (115 g) cheddar cheese, shredded

 

Place chicken broth, wine, onion, celery, apples, potatoes, thyme, nutmeg, pepper, and salt into the Vitamix container in the order listed and secure lid. Select Hot Soups program or Variable speed 1. Start the machine slowly increase to its highest speed and blend for 5:45 or allow machine to complete programmed Hot Soups program. Once you have turned off the machine or the Hot Soups program has come to a stop, Select Variable 1. Start the machine and slowly increase speed to Variable 6 and remove the lid plug. Drop in cheese through the lid plug opening. Blend an additional 10 seconds. Notes: Garnish with sour cream and diced apples. This recipe can be reduced by half and made in smaller containers. Soup may vary in color depending on the types of apples and cheese that you use. Season soups to your liking a little salt and pepper can go along way or spice it up with a little jalapeno! Potatoes should be baked, veggies are raw. By cooking all ingredients beforehand, you will get a sweeter soup. This soup is an apple forward soup with rich sweetness for a heartier flavor use 1 apple and then season to taste at the end with more spices, herbs, and cheese to make it to your liking.

Chicken Long Rice

Chicken Long Rice

Chicken Long Rice

 

1 1/2 pounds skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs

12 C. chicken broth

5 garlic cloves, peeled and lightly smashed

One 5-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and thinly julienned

1 1/2 tsp. Hawaiian salt (‘alaea)

One 5.3-ounce package bean thread noodles

6 green onions, white and green parts, chopped

 

Place the chicken, broth, garlic, three-quarters of the ginger, and the salt into a large pot. Bring everything to a boil over high heat, then turn the heat to medium-low and simmer with the lid on until the chicken is tender, about 45 minutes. Skim off the surface of the broth periodically while simmering. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the broth and place on a plate to cool slightly. Continue simmering the broth while the chicken cools. Meanwhile, place the bean thread noodles in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Let sit for 30 minutes to hydrate and soften the noodles; drain the water from the bowl and cut the soaked noodles in half or thirds with a pair of kitchen shears. When the chicken is cool enough to touch, remove the skin and bones and cut the meat into bite-size pieces. Add the meat back to the broth, along with half of the green onions, and continue to simmer. Skim any scum that may form. Add the hydrated bean thread noodles to the broth and simmer for another 10 minutes, until the noodles are clear, plumped, and tender. Garnish with the remaining julienned ginger and chopped green onions and serve hot.

Shrimp Chowder

Shrimp Chowder

Shrimp Chowder

 

3 Tablespoons light butter spread

1 stalk celery, diced

½ small onion, peeled, halved

1  carrot, halved

1 pinch marjoram

1 pinch ground nutmeg

1 Tablespoon lemon juice

2 cups chicken stock

8 ounces shrimp, uncooked

1 cup milk

 

Place butter, celery, onion, carrot, marjoram, nutmeg, lemon juice, and chicken broth into the Vitamix container in the order listed and secure lid. Select Variable 1. Turn machine on and slowly increase speed to Variable 4. Blend for 10 seconds. Pour into a 4-liter pan and simmer for 10 minutes. Add shrimp. Cook for 5 minutes or until shrimp is no longer pink. Add milk and maintain temperature. Serve immediately.

 

Serving Size: 1 C.

Calories: 140

Fat: 7g

Fiber: 1g

 Vitamix Pizza Soup

 Vitamix Pizza Soup

Vitamix Pizza Soup

1 garlic clove

½ cup (80 g) onion, peeled, diced

4 (40 g) mushrooms, sliced

½ cup (75 g) green bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, diced

1 Tablespoon olive oil

8 slices (16 g) pepperoni

1½ ounce italian sausage, cooked, drained, broken into small pieces

1½ cup (360 ml) water, or vegetable stock

3 Roma tomatoes, diced

2½ Tablespoon (45 ml) tomato paste

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

¾ teaspoon salt

½ cup (55 g) Mozzarella cheese, shredded

2 Tablespoons (10 g) grated Parmesan cheese

 

Sauté garlic, onion, mushrooms, green pepper, and one Roma tomato in the olive oil until tender. Mix pepperoni and cooked sausage together in a small bowl. Set aside. Place water, half of the sautéed vegetable mixture, 2 tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings into the Vitamix container in the order listed and secure lid. Select Variable 1. Turn machine on and slowly increase speed to Variable 10, then to High. Blend for 1-3 minutes or until heavy steam escapes from the vented lid. Reduce speed to Variable 2 and remove the lid plug. Add remaining half of sautéed vegetables, meat mixture, and cheeses through the lid plug opening. Blend for an additional 5-10 seconds.

French Market Soup Mix

French Market Soup Mix

1 pound dried black beans

1 pound dried great Northern beans

1 pound dried navy beans

1 pound dried pinto beans

1 pound dried red beans

1 pound dried black-eye peas

1 pound dried green split peas

1 pound dried yellow split peas

1 pound dried lentils

1 pound dried baby limas

1 pound dried large limas

1 pound barley pearls

Combine all ingredients into a very large bowl. Divide mixture evenly into 13 (2 cup) containers, and enclose recipe for French Market Soup. Yield: 26 cups mix

French Market Soup

 

1 (2 cup) package French Market Soup Mix
2 quarts water
1 large ham hock
1 (16 ounce) can whole tomatoes, undrained and coarsely chopped

1 1/2 cups chopped onion

3 T. lemon juice

1 chile pepper, coarsely chopped

1 clove garlic, minced

1 1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. pepper

Sort and wash soup mix; place in a Dutch oven. Cover with water 2 inches above soup mix; let soak 8 hours. Drain soup mix, and return to pan; add 2 quarts water and ham hock. Bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat, and simmer 1 1/2 hours or until beans are tender. Stir in tomatoes and next 4 ingredients. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer, 30 minutes. Remove ham hock; remove meat from bone. Chop meat, and return to soup. Stir in salt and pepper. Yield: 3 quarts.

ASIAN CHICKEN BONE BROTH

ASIAN CHICKEN BONE BROTH

ASIAN CHICKEN BONE BROTH

4 C. (1 quart) Chicken Bone Broth

3″ length of lemongrass, cut into 1″ pieces

1 small clove garlic, smashed

One handful of shitake mushrooms, sliced

2 scallions, white and green parts, cut into ¥2” pieces

Celtic or pink Himalayan salt

Ground black pepper

2 T. coarsely chopped cilantro leaves

 

Heat the broth in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the lemongrass, garlic, mushrooms, and scallions. Reduce the heat to medium-low or low so the broth barely simmers for 5 to 10 minutes. Remove and discard the lemongrass and garlic. Season with salt and pepper. Top with the cilantro.

Eastern European Beef Bone Broth

Eastern European Beef Bone Broth

Eastern European Beef Bone Broth

 

4 C. (1 quart) Beef Bone Broth

1 small clove garlic, smashed

Large handful of shredded cabbage

1 rib celery, diced

1 bay leaf

1 tsp. dried dill

1 peppercorn

Celtic or pink Himalayan salt

 

Heat the broth in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic, cabbage, celery, bay leaf, dill, and peppercorn. Reduce the heat to medium-low or low so the broth barely simmers for 5 to 10 minutes, just until the vegetables are tender. Remove and discard the bay leaf, garlic, and peppercorn. Season with salt and serve.

Instant Pot Chicken Bone Broth Recipe

Instant Pot Chicken Bone Broth Recipe

Instant Pot Chicken Bone Broth Recipe

2-3 lb. whole chicken or whole rotisserie chicken

1 onion sliced in half

1 garlic head top removed

2 tsp. peppercorns

2 tsp. turmeric

2 bay leaves

salt & pepper to taste

 

Before making chicken broth in instant pot, I like to soak my chicken in cold salted water for about 1 hour or overnight (100% optional). Place chicken into the instant pot. Add 1 sliced onion, 1 whole garlic head, 2 tsp. of peppercorns, 2 tsp. turmeric, 2 bay leaves, salt & pepper. Pour water until water reaches the MAX line. Cover the lid and place the vent valve to ‘Sealing’. Push the soup/broth setting for 60 minutes. Naturally release pressure for 15 minutes (let the instant pot stand untouched for 15 minutes). Release pressure. Pour the broth thru cheese cloth into the jars or freezer safe containers. Enjoy!

Parmesan Puffs

Parmesan Puffs

2 lg. Egg whites
1 C. Freshly grated Parmesan
A Pinch Cayenne
Vegetable Oil for deep-frying

Put whites in a large bowl and let stand at room temperature 15 minutes. With an electric mixer beat whites until they hold stiff peaks and with a metal spoon thoroughly fold in Parmesan and cayenne. Roll mixture into about twenty 3/4-inch balls. In a 3-quart heavy kettle heat 1 inch oil to 375° F. Working in batches, fry balls, turning them, until golden, about 2 minutes, transferring to paper towels to drain. Serve Parmesan puffs warm as an accompaniment to soup or as an hors d’oeuvre.

Prickly Situation- Forager’s Soup with Nettles and Ramps

Prickly Situation- Forager’s Soup with Nettles and Ramps

Prickly Situation- Forager’s Soup with Nettles and Ramps

 

8 ounces stinging nettles

2 tablespoons butter

2 young leeks, white and green parts only, thinly sliced

1 bunch ramps

1 (12-ounce) russet potato, peeled and thinly sliced

4 cups mild vegetable or chicken stock

2 cups warm water

Salt and pepper

2 ounces Spanish chorizo, diced

 

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Wear gloves and use tongs to transfer the nettles to the pot. Cook, stirring frequently, until the nettles are wilted and tender, 4 minutes. Drain. Use sharp little scissors to clip off the nettles largest stems, discard.  Rinse the ramps well, trim off root end and discard. Thinly slice the bulb end. Roughly chop the green part of the ramps and set aside with the nettles.  In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the leeks and white part of the ramps and sauté until they are translucent, 5 minutes. Add the nettles, green ramp leaves, potato, stock, and water. Bring to a simmer, cover and cook until the potato is fall-apart tender, 15-20 minutes. Do not overcook or the greens will go drab. Puree the soup, season with salt and pepper. In a small sauté pan, cook the chorizo over medium heat until it has rendered all its fat and is slightly crispy. Drizzle the chorizo and fat over bowls of the soup.

Spring Pea Soup with Nettle-Sorrel Pesto and Pea Vines

Spring Pea Soup with Nettle-Sorrel Pesto and Pea Vines

Spring Pea Soup with Nettle-Sorrel Pesto and Pea Vines

2 T. EVOO

2 large shallots, thinly sliced

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Kosher salt

1 pound fresh shelled English peas (from 3 pounds pea pods)

1/4 cup heavy cream

12 small pea vines, torn

1/4 cup Nettle-Sorrel Pesto

 

Heat the oil in a large soup pot over medium-low heat. When hot, add the shallots, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the shallots are translucent but not browned, about 10 minutes. Add the broth, season with salt, and bring to a simmer. Add the peas and the cream and return to a strong simmer. Cook until the peas are tender but still bright green, 3 to 5 minutes. Carefully transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor, then purée until extremely smooth. Season to taste with additional salt, if necessary. Ladle the soup immediately into bowls and garnish each bowl with a little tangle of pea vines and a dollop of the pesto.

Beer Braised Beef

Beer Braised Beef

3 to 4 lb. stew beef

1/2 C. flour

1 T. salt

2 tsp. paprika

1 tsp. pepper

12 small white onions, peeled

4 strips bacon, diced

16 oz. sliced mushrooms

1 can (12 oz. or 1 1/2 C. s) beer

1 tsp.  sugar

1 T. vinegar

1/2 tsp.  dried leaf thyme, crushed

1 small bay leaf

 

Combine flour, salt, paprika, and pepper in a large shallow bowl or food storage bag. Toss beef cubes in flour mixture to coat thoroughly. Place onions, bacon and about half of the mushrooms in Crockpot. Add beef and remaining mushrooms. Combine beer, sugar, vinegar, thyme, and bay leaf; pour over beef. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours. Serve beef with noodles or rice.  If desired, make a gravy from juices. Strain cooking liquids into a saucepan and simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce slightly. Combine 2 T. of flour with about 3 to 4 T. of water to make a smooth paste. Pour into beef juice mixture and simmer until thickened.

 

Bacon and Clam Chowder

Bacon and Clam Chowder

4 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1 large onion, chopped

2 celery stalks, coarsely chopped

2 large red or yellow bell peppers, coarsely chopped

1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

3 oz. Canadian bacon, finely chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

4 tsp. chopped fresh thyme

3 C. chicken broth

12 oz. new potatoes cut into 1/2-inch chunks

1 can (14 1/2 oz.) diced tomatoes, drained

1/2 C. dry white wine (optional) 1 1/2 C. water 12 littleneck clams, well scrubbed

 

Heat the oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, bell peppers, and black pepper. Stir well, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.  Stir in the Canadian bacon, garlic, and thyme; increase the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes, or until all the juices have evaporated.  Add the broth and potatoes; cover and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir in the tomatoes and wine (if using), cover, and simmer for 5 minutes more. Remove from the heat. Bring the water to a boil in a medium skillet over high heat. Add the clams; reduce the heat to medium, cover, and cook, stirring often, for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the clams open. With tongs, transfer the clams to a bowl, discarding those that haven’t opened. Line a fine-mesh strainer with damp paper towels. To remove any sand, pour the clam broth through the strainer into a glass measure. Add the broth to the soup. Reheat if necessary. Remove the clams from their shells and chop coarsely. Add the clams to the soup; reheat briefly, then ladle into bowls.

 

Yield:

Calories:

Fat:

Fiber:

Instant Pot Pinto Beans with Chorizo

Instant Pot Pinto Beans with Chorizo

Instant Pot Pinto Beans with Chorizo

1 T. cooking oil

4 oz. dry (Spanish) chorizo

1 yellow onion

3 cloves garlic

2 cups dry pinto beans

2 bay leaves

freshly cracked pepper

3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth

15 oz. can diced tomatoes

 

Dice the chorizo, then add it to the instant pot along with the cooking oil. Press the Sauté button, then the Adjust button to select the “less” temperature setting. Sauté the chorizo in the oil, without a lid, until it becomes slightly crispy on the edges. While the chorizo is sautéing, dice the onion and mince the garlic. Once the chorizo is crispy, add the onion and garlic and continue to sauté until the onions are soft and transparent. Add the beans, bay leaves, and pepper to the pot and wait a moment to let the beans absorb some of the heat and prevent the broth from splattering when it hits the hot pot.  Add the broth to the pot, stir briefly to combine, then place the lid on the Instant Pot. Close the steam valve, press the Manual button, select high pressure (if not selected automatically), then press the + button to increase the time to 35 minutes. Allow the beans to cook through the 35 minute cycle, then let the pressure release naturally (you’ll know the pressure has released when the silver float valve has fallen back down and is no longer flush with the top of the lid).  Once the pressure has released, open the steam valve, and then remove the lid. Discard the bay leaf. Add the canned diced tomatoes with all their juices, then stir to combine.

Press the cancel button to cancel the “keep warm” function, then press the Sauté button and use the Adjust button to select the “normal” heat level. Let the mixture simmer, stirring often, until the beans are very tender and the liquid has thickened. Serve the beans with tortillas, tortilla chips, or over a bowl of rice, and with optional toppings like cheese, cilantro, green onions, or finely diced red onion.

LTS Cream of Anything Soup Mix

LTS Cream of Anything Soup Mix

LTS Cream of Anything Soup Mix

 

2 C. non-fat dried milk powder

1 1/2 C. cornstarch

1/2 C. chicken, beef, or veggie bouillon

1/2 C. dried minced onions

2 tsp. dried basil

2 tsp. dried thyme

1 tsp. dried parsley

1 to 1 1/2 tsp. black pepper

 

Mix together in a large bowl.  Pour into lidded container.  For the equivalent of one can of condensed cream soup, mix 1/3 C. mix with 1 1/4 C. cold water.  Cook until thickened.  Add additional ingredients as desired. For cream of mushroom, add 1/4 C. chopped fresh, canned or freeze dried mushrooms. For cream of celery, add 1/4 C. of freeze dried celery, etc.

Chickpea and Cilantro Soup

Chickpea and Cilantro Soup

Chickpea and Cilantro Soup

 

4 medium zucchini

2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes

3 medium yellow onions

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1 (28-ounce) can San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1 cup dried bricchetti or other small pasta

1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained

1 bunch fresh cilantro leaves and tender stems

1 to 2 teaspoons harissa (depending on desired heat)

 

Dice 4 zucchini and 2 potatoes and place together in a bowl. Dice 3 onions. Heat 3 tablespoons oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add the onions and cook until translucent. Stir in 1 teaspoon ground cumin and 1/2 teaspoon paprika. Add the potatoes, zucchini, and canned tomatoes and their juices. Add enough water to just cover (4 to 5 cups), season with kosher salt and black pepper, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer the vegetables are tender, 40 to 45 minutes. Meanwhile, boil the pasta in a medium saucepan of salted water according to package directions, then drain. Drain the can of chickpeas and coarsely chop the bunch of cilantro. Add the harissa to the soup. Blend directly in the pot with an immersion blender until smooth or transfer to a blender and blend in batches. Return the soup to the pot if needed. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. With the soup on low heat, stir in the chickpeas, cooked pasta, and a generous handful (emphasis on generous) of chopped cilantro. Serve topped with more chopped cilantro.

Instant Pot Alphabet Vegetable Soup

Instant Pot Alphabet Vegetable Soup

Instant Pot Alphabet Vegetable Soup

1 pkg knorr vegetable soup mix

1 box (32 oz.) chicken broth (vegetable broth to make vegetarian)

1 can(s) (6 oz.) tomato paste

1 c frozen corn

3 medium carrots, peeled & sliced

2 stalk(s) celery, finely diced

1 1/2 c fresh green beans or 1 can additional fresh vegetables of your choice (whatever’s handy that you need to use up, add more broth if needed)

1/2 c alphabet noodles, uncooked

salt & pepper to taste

fresh parsley (optional)

 

Add the chicken or vegetable broth, tomato paste, vegetable soup packet, and all vegetables to Instant pot and cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.  Seal lid, make sure valve is set to sealing.  Use quick release valve to release steam. Remove lid. Salt & Pepper Soup to taste. Ladle into soup bowls and sprinkle with Fresh parsley and a T. Parmesan or Asiago cheese

Polka Dot Pea Soup

Polka Dot Pea Soup

To pipe the polka-dots onto the servings, you will need a pastry bag and an Ateco #5 round tip.

 

 

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound (about 1 1/2 cups) leeks, white and light-green parts only, washed well and thinly sliced

3 1/2 cups homemade or low-sodium canned chicken stock

4 cups fresh shelled peas, or 2 ten-ounce packages frozen peas, thawed

Salt and freshly ground pepper

1/3 cup sour cream

 

Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add leeks; saute, stirring occasionally, until leeks are softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add chicken stock, and bring mixture to a boil. Add peas, and reduce heat; simmer until peas are bright green and tender, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Puree using an immersion blender, or transfer mixture to the jar of a blender, working in batches if necessary so as not to fill jar more than halfway, as hot liquid will expand when blended, and process until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Pour soup into serving bowls. To make polka-dots, fill pastry bag with sour cream. Pipe dots onto surface of soup, and serve.

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Pasta Fagioli

Pasta Fagioli

 

3 T. olive oil

1 onion, quartered then halved

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 (29 ounce) can tomato sauce

5 1/2  C. water

1 T. dried parsley

1 1/2 tsp. dried basil

1 1/2 tsp. dried oregano

1 tsp. salt

1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans

1 (15 ounce) can navy beans

1/3  C. grated Parmesan cheese

1 pound ditalini pasta

 

In a large pot over medium heat, cook onion in olive oil until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook until tender. Reduce heat, and stir in tomato sauce, water, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, cannelini beans, navy beans and Parmesan. Simmer 1 hour. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain. Stir into soup.

Whole Foods Salmon Chowder

Whole Foods Salmon Chowder

 

 

3 strips nitrite-free bacon, diced (pork, turkey or vegetarian)

1 large yellow onion, diced

1/2 cup diced celery

2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and diced

2 carrots, peeled and diced

2 cups chicken or vegetable stock

1/2 cup whole milk

1/2 cup half-and-half

1 1/2 pounds salmon fillet, skinned, boned and cut into 1-inch cubes

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

1/2 to 1 teaspoon dried dill

Sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

1 tablespoon minced fresh chives for garnish

Oyster crackers for garnish (optional and contain gluten)

 

Brown bacon in a deep, heavy-bottomed sauce pot until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Sauté onion and celery in the bacon fat in the same pot until onion is translucent. (If using turkey or vegetarian bacon, add canola oil to sauté onion and celery.) Add potatoes and sauté about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Do not brown. Add carrots and stock, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are fork tender about 10 minutes.  Add milk, half and half, salmon, parsley, dill and pepper. Simmer over low heat 5 to 8 minutes or until fish is cooked through and liquid is steaming, but not boiling. Add more pepper and salt to taste. Transfer to serving bowls and garnish with crispy bacon pieces and chives. Serve with oyster crackers, if desired.

Stinging Nettle Soup with Quail Eggs

Stinging Nettle Soup with Quail Eggs

Stinging Nettle Soup with Quail Eggs

 

1/2 lb. fresh young stinging nettles washed well

4 C. homemade chicken broth

1 T. all purpose flour

1 T. unsalted butter

Pinch toasted, ground fennel seed

Pinch toasted, ground aniseed

Kosher salt to taste

Fresh ground black pepper for finishing

12 hardboiled quail eggs or chopped hard-boiled eggs

Fresh chopped dill or mint for serving

Creme fraiche for serving, optional

 

Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil, then blanch the nettles for a second or two until just wilted, then remove to an ice bath and chill. Remove the nettles and chop finely. in a 2 qt saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the flour. Whisk in the chicken stock and simmer for a few minutes until lightly thickened, then add the aniseed, fennel, and salt to taste. Finally add the nettles and heat through, double check the seasoning and adjust as needed, then divide 1 C. portions between heated soup bowls or C., garnish each with 3 quail eggs, fresh cracked pepper, creme fraiche if using and the dill, then serve immediately.

 

Notes: With a recipe with so few ingredients, it’s important to use a strong, high quality chicken or poultry stock, or any stock you want to substitute.   If you really want to drive home the nettle, try pureeing half of the leaves with the soup and chopping the other half to add, you’ll get more of a pronounced nettle flavor.

Vegetarian Thai Red Curry Soup

Vegetarian Thai Red Curry Soup

 

2 T. vegetable oil

1 large red bell pepper, chopped

6 ounces portobella caps, chopped

8 ounces seitan, chopped

2 T. vegan red curry paste

1 heaping C. peeled and diced russet potatoes

4 ounces green beans

3 C. unsweetened coconut milk

3 C. vegetable broth

1 T. tamari

Salt and pepper, to taste

Heaping 1/4 C. fresh basil, chopped

Sriracha sauce, optional condiment

 

Heat oil in large pot over medium heat. Saute bell pepper and mushrooms for about 5 minutes. Add seitan and red curry paste. Stir to distribute curry paste, about 2 minutes. Add potatoes and green beans and saute about 1 minute more. Add coconut milk, broth, and tamari. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer for about 10 minutes, or until potatoes are done. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in fresh basil before serving. Garnish with Sriracha sauce for a spicier taste.

Chayote and Roasted Poblano Soup

Chayote and Roasted Poblano Soup

2 chayotes

4 C. chicken broth

1 large poblano pepper, roasted and cleaned (click here for a video on how to roast peppers)

1/2 onion

Fresh cilantro (optional)

Salt and pepper

Oregano

Parsley flakes

Cream, green onions and queso fresco for garnish

 

Clean chayotes and boil them in chicken broth until tender. Blend chayotes, poblano pepper, onion and cilantro with about 1 C. of the chicken broth until smooth. Return to the pot with the rest of the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to slow, add seasoning and spices and cover. Simmer for 15 minutes or until the soup thickens. Stir constantly. Serve and garnish with cream, green onions and queso fresco.

Curried Chicken Soup

Curried Chicken Soup

 

 

2 T. butter

1 bunch scallions, white and green portions thinly sliced separately

1 red bell pepper, finely chopped

2 tsp. curry powder

One 32-ounce container (4 C.) chicken broth

1 head cauliflower, cut into florets

 1 large baking potato (12 to 14 ounces), peeled and cut into small cubes

1 rotisserie chicken, skin discarded and meat shredded

One 15-ounce can chickpeas, rinsed

Salt and pepper

3/4 C. plain whole milk yogurt

 

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the scallion whites, bell pepper and curry powder and cook, stirring, until tender, about 3 minutes. Add the chicken broth, cauliflower and potato and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, partially cover and simmer until the vegetables are tender, 10 to 12 minutes. Stir in the chicken and chickpeas and cook until heated through, about 2 minutes. Stir in the scallion greens and season with salt and pepper. Stir in the yogurt just before serving.

Northwest Clam Chowder with Oyster Mushrooms

Northwest Clam Chowder with Oyster Mushrooms

 

3 pounds Manila, Pacific littleneck, Washington butter, or other small hard-shell clams

4 C. water

6 bacon slices, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces

1 medium onion, diced

2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme

1 1/4 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

2 C. half-and-half

1 tsp. coarse salt

1 tsp. freshly ground pepper

1 C. loosely packed fresh parsley leaves, chopped

4 ounces fresh oyster mushrooms, separated into pieces

Garnish: fresh oyster mushrooms

Garnish: fresh oyster mushrooms

Preparation

 

Wash clams thoroughly, discarding any opened shells; place in a stockpot. Add 4 C. water; cover and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook 5 minutes or until shells open, discarding any unopened clams. Remove clams with a slotted spoon, and place in a large bowl. Cool. Remove clam meat from shell, reserving any juice. Coarsely chop clams, and set aside. Pour liquid through a wire-mesh strainer into a 4-C. liquid measuring C., discarding solids. Reserve 3 C. liquid. Cook bacon in a Dutch oven until crisp; remove bacon, reserving 2 T. drippings in pan. Add onion and thyme, and sauté 5 minutes or until onion is tender. Add potatoes, 3 C. reserved clam liquid, half-and-half, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 7 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Stir in bacon, clams, parsley, and separated mushrooms; serve immediately. Garnish with fresh oyster mushrooms.

Spring Leek Soup with Gruyere Toasts

Spring Leek Soup with Gruyere Toasts

Spring Leek Soup with Gruyere Toasts

2 T. butter

3 large leeks white and light green parts, sliced in half longwise, rinsed and thinly sliced crosswise

pinch fine sea salt

4 C. chicken stock

pinch ground white pepper

1/2 Meyer Lemon juice and zest

4, 1/2- inch slices crusty bread toasted

3 ounces Gruyere cheese shredded

1 green onion thinly sliced (for garnish)

 

Preheat broiler. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add leeks and a pinch of sea salt, to help sweat out the liquid. Cook and stir until leeks are tender but not brown, about 3 minutes. Add stock and white pepper, bring to boil. Stir in lemon juice and zest. Remove from heat and season to taste with salt and white pepper. Ladle soup into 4 broiler-safe serving bowls. Place one slice of toasted bread over each serving, pressing it down to submerge. Divide cheese evenly, sprinkling it over each toast. Place bowls under broiler and broil until cheese is melted and bubbly. If desired, garnish each serving with green onion. Serve.

Cucumber Gazpacho

Cucumber Gazpacho

3 C. plain yogurt, preferably Greek-style or whole milk

5 medium English cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and roughly chopped

1/2 bunch celery (about 4 long stalks), roughly chopped

1 green bell pepper, seeded, cored, roughly chopped

3 green onions, white and green parts, roughly chopped

1/2 bunch fresh cilantro, leaves and stems

1/2 bunch fresh dill, leaves only, plus a few sprigs for garnish

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Sugar

Garnish: 2 medium pink radishes, grated

 

In a blender, puree yogurt, cucumbers, celery, bell peppers, green onions, cilantro and dill in batches until smooth. Season with salt, pepper and sugar to taste. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 2 days. Serve soup in chilled bowls or salted glasses with dill sprigs and grated radish for garnish.

Orzo Butternut Squash Soup with Sautéed Zucchini and Yellow Squash, Topped With Crispy Prosciutto

Orzo Butternut Squash Soup with Sautéed Zucchini and Yellow Squash, Topped With Crispy Prosciutto

1 box Orzo

3 T. olive oil

2 cloves garlic, chopped

1/2 medium onion onions, chopped

5 C. butternut squash, diced

4 C. chicken broth

2 C. water

1 C. zucchini, diced

1 C. yellow squash, diced

4 ounces prosciutto, sliced into thin strips

to taste salt

to taste freshly ground black pepper

 

HEAT olive oil in a large skillet; add onions and garlic and cook for 5 minutes. ADD the butternut squash and allow it to carmelize. Cover mixture with chicken broth and simmer for 10 minutes. Pour the soup mixture into a blender and blend well. SAUTE zucchini and squash in a separate skillet. FRY prosciutto in another skillet and set aside. RETURN soup to a large pot, mix in the sauteed zucchini and squash. Add the water and bring to a boil. ADD Orzo to the pot and cook according to the package directions, stirring frequently. TRANSFER to serving bowls and top with crispy prosciutto before serving

Cheeseburger Soup

Cheeseburger Soup

1/2 lb. ground beef

3/4 C. chopped onion

3/4 C. shredded carrots

3/4 C. diced celery

1 tsp. dried basil

1 tsp. dried parsley flakes

4 T. butter or margarine, divided

3 C. chicken broth

4 C. diced peeled potatoes

1/4 C. flour

8 oz. cheese, cubed or shredded

1-1/2 C. milk

3/4 tsp. salt

1/4 to 1/2 tsp. pepper

1/4 C. sour cream

 

In a 3-quart saucepan, brown beef; drain and set aside.  In the same saucepan, sauté onion, carrots, celery, basil and parsley in 1 T. butter until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. Add broth, potatoes, and beef; bring to a boil.  Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Meanwhile, in a small skillet, melt remaining butter.  Add flour; cook and stir for 3-5 minutes or until bubbly.  Add to soup; bring to a boil.  Cook and stir for 2 minutes.  Reduce heat to low.  Add cheese, milk, salt, and pepper; cook and stir until cheese melts.  Remove from the heat; blend in sour cream.  Makes 8 servings.

Sunshine Soup with Mushrooms

Sunshine Soup with Mushrooms

Sunshine Soup with Mushrooms

 

Not all children love mushrooms, but if you are a parent of a fussy eater, chop your mushrooms very finely. You can serve mushrooms to children over three years old, provided, of course, that they do not have allergies to mushrooms. Choose the freshest mushrooms with closed caps. Some recipes recommend using canned tomatoes, but I strongly advise against giving canned foods to children because can lining contains phthalate BPA, a well-known endocrine disruptor.

 

2 T. olive oil

2 medium leeks

2 C. button mushrooms

2 tomatoes

1/2 C. red lentils

1/2 C. pearl barley

Fresh dill, to garnish

 

Trim, halve, wash and thinly slice the leeks. Chop the mushrooms finely. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add leeks and mushroom. Cook, stirring, for 3 to 4 minutes. Cut tomatoes in quarters and slice the skin off the flesh using sharp knife. Alternatively, splash the tomato with boiling water and quickly place them into a pan of ice cold water. The skin should be easy to remove. Add skinless tomatoes to the pan with leeks and mushrooms and stir well. Add lentils, barley and the stock to the pan. Cover and bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 3 5 to 40 minutes or until barley is tender. Ladle into bowls. Serve with a sprinkle of chopped dill and whole meal croutons.

Celery and Coconut Cleansing Soup

Celery and Coconut Cleansing Soup

Celery and Coconut Cleansing Soup

 

Celery is an excellent source of vitamin C as well at least a dozen other types of antioxidant nutrients that help protect us against unwanted oxygen damage to our cells, blood vessels, and large organ systems in our bodies. In addition to that, celery contains active compounds called phthalides which allow blood vessels to dilate. Studies have shown that celery can reduce blood pressure. Phthalides also reduce stress hormones which can cause blood vessels to constrict. Celery contains phytochemical compounds known as coumarins. Studies have shown that they are effective in cancer prevention and are capable of enhancing the activity of white blood cells. Celery may help to lower cholesterol and prevent cancer by improving detoxification. This simple quick recipe is excellent for liver cleansing

 

1 small onion

1 small carrot

1 celery rib

1 inch fresh ginger

2 T. coconut oil

2 C. low-sodium vegetable stock

Fresh lemon juice, to taste

 

Peel and finely chop onions, carrots, celery and ginger. Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onions until tender, approximately 5 minutes. Slowly stir in carrots, celery and ginger, and continue cooking until carrots are tender. Stir in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer and continue cooking for 10 minutes. Serve with a sprinkle of your favorite fragrant herbs.

Onion and Apples Detox Soup

Onion and Apples Detox Soup

Onion and Apples Detox Soup

 

Onion belongs to the allium family of vegetables. These pungent plants contain flavonoids that stimulate the production of glutathione, one of the liver’s strongest antioxidants. Yes, we all know it is quite smelly and not an exactly a food you would like to eat before an important interview or a date, but try to eat at least half an onion a day. Along with artichoke heart, parsley, Brussels sprouts, shallot, broccoli, and celery, onions are highest in antioxidant polyphenols which may protect against various cancers, including colorectal, laryngeal, and ovarian cancer. The best way to eat onions is in raw form, for example, sliced for a salad or chopped for a sauce or a dip.

 

1 C. apple juice

1 tsp. apple cider vinegar

4 onions

9 cloves garlic, minced

1 T. whole wheat flour

4 C. low-sodium vegetable broth

1 C. unsweetened whole-grain oatmeal

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

6 slices toasted bread (optional)

 

Thinly slice the onions. In a heavy stockpot over medium heat, combine apple juice and apple cider vinegar, add the onions and cook on medium heat, stirring frequently, until onions begin to form a paste. Stir in the garlic and continue to cook for 5 to 10 minutes, until garlic turns light brown. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Add oatmeal. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. After the soup has cooked, remove and discard the spices using a sieve. Puree the soup in the pot using an immersion blender. Otherwise, puree in batches using a food processor. Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs and peppered stale bread toasts before serving.

Dill and Fennel Detox Soup

Dill and Fennel Detox Soup

Dill and Fennel Detox Soup

 

An ideal cleanse food, fennel is rich in vitamins and anti-inflammatory chemicals. Dill contains chemicals that help with the activation of glutathione, a liver antioxidant that attaches to free radical molecules and disarms them. This Super Soup is high in fiber but low in calories – less than 100 per serving.

 

2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

3 large leeks

4 large stalks celery

3 large onions

1 large fennel bulb

8 C. water

2 cubes low-sodium vegetable stock

1 T. wheat germ per portion

Small bunch of fresh dill

 

Clean and thinly slice leeks, celery and fennel. Peel and halve the onions. In a large saucepan combine olive oil, leeks, celery, onions, fennel and cook and stir until the onions are translucent and the vegetables softened, or about 10 minutes. Pour 8 C. of water over the vegetables, bring to a boil, reduce the heat and then add crumbled vegetable stock cubes. Simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender, or about 30 minutes. After the soup has cooked, remove and discard the herbs. Puree the soup in the pot using an immersion blender. Otherwise, puree in batches using a food processor. Add wheat germ into each bowl before serving and stir well. Serve with freshly chopped dill.

Detox Artichoke and Lemon Cleansing Soup

Detox Artichoke and Lemon Cleansing Soup

Detox Artichoke and Lemon Cleansing Soup

 

5 artichokes

1 medium leek

1 onion

6 garlic cloves

2 T. olive oil

8 C. low-sodium vegetable stock

2 bay leaves

2 sprigs thyme

4 sprigs parsley

1 lemon

2 T. wheat germ per serving

 

Remove hearts from artichokes by peeling away the thick leaves and chopping away the thistle. Chop the hearts in quarters. Remove hard green parts from the leek stem and slice the white part lengthwise. Carefully rinse to remove any grit. Slice into thin rings. Chop the onion and the garlic. Pour olive oil into a large, thick-bottomed pot and allow to heat slightly. Add artichoke hearts, leek, garlic and onion. Stir well. Cook on medium heat until artichoke is tender. Add the stock and herbs. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a simmer, and then lower the heat. Cook uncovered for 40 minutes. After the soup has cooked, remove and discard the herbs. Puree the soup in the pot using an immersion blender. Otherwise, puree in batches using a food processor. Before serving, squeeze lemon juice and add wheat germ into each bowl. Stir well before serving. Artichoke contains antioxidant compounds called caffeoylquinic acids which help treat liver disorders. These phytochemicals stimulate the secretion of bile and help the body to digest fats. Efficient bile flow clears the liver of potentially inflammatory substances contained in fatty foods.

Chicken-Ramen Soup

Chicken-Ramen Soup

1 T. olive oil 

1 C. baby carrots, sliced into 1/4-inch slices 

1 C. sliced celery 

1 medium onion, chopped 

2 garlic cloves, minced 

2 C. cut-up deli rotisserie-cooked chicken 

6 C. water 

1 (3 oz.) package chicken-flavored ramen noodles 

1/4 tsp. salt 

1/4 tsp. pepper 

 

In a 5-quart Dutch oven, heat oil over medium heat. Add carrots, celery, onion, and garlic; cook 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender. Stir in chicken, water, contents of seasoning packet from soup mix, salt, and pepper. Heat to boiling over high heat. Reduce heat to medium; simmer uncovered 10-15 minutes. Stir in noodles from soup mix; simmer uncovered 4 minutes longer or until noodles are tender.

Vigorous Vegetable Soup

Vigorous Vegetable Soup

Vigorous Vegetable Soup

 

1 medium Zucchini

1 c. chopped Mushrooms, fresh

1 med Onion, diced

7 large Carrots, diced

4 Celery stalks, diced

1 sprig Rosemary

1 tsp. dried Thyme

1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

1 10-oz package frozen green peas, thawed

3 14.5-ounce cans low-fat, low-sodium vegetable broth

3 C. water

 

Place all the ingredients except the peas in a large pot with the water, broth, and spices. Bring to a boil, then let simmer for 45 minutes or until carrots are tender. Add peas for last 5 minutes of cooking time.  Remove the bay leaf and rosemary sprig before serving.

Fat Smash

Pineapple Gazpacho

Pineapple Gazpacho

4 oz diced tomato, canned

2 oz pineapple juice

2 oz Bloody Mary Mix

1 T. red wine vinegar

1 T. olive oil

1/2 cucumber (seeded), 1/4 peeled, 1/4 with skin

1/4 red onion (2 oz)

1/2 stalk celery (2 oz)

1/2 carrot (3 oz)

1/4 green pepper

1/4 pineapple (1/2 qt peeled and cored)

1 T. fresh basil leaves

3/4 tsp. paprika

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. white pepper

1/4 tsp. garlic, fresh chopped

1/4 tsp. Tabasco sauce

1/4 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

1/2 T. red wine vinegar

 

Dice tomato, pineapple, celery, red onion, cucumber, bell peppers and garlic. Put all ingredients into a bowl, mix well. Blend in batches with a blender or with an immersion blender.  Chill overnight (Note: the flavors really come together on the second day … by day three the flavors start to fade). Serve chilled.

Cheese Chowder

Cheese Chowder

Cheese Chowder

 

1/4 C. Onion, finely chopped

2 T. Butter

1/4 C. Flour

2 C. Milk

13oz. Can Chicken Broth (13/4C.)

1/4 C. Carrot, finely diced

1/4 C. Celery, finely diced

1/2 C. Sharp Cheddar Cheese, cubed

 

Cook Onion in butter until tender.  Blend in flour; Add remaining ingredients except cheese.  Cook and stir until bubbly and thick.  Reduce heat.  Add cheese, stir to melt.  Simmer 15 minutes.  Serves 4.

Buttermilk-Lady Pea Soup with Bacon

Buttermilk-Lady Pea Soup with Bacon

Buttermilk-Lady Pea Soup with Bacon

4 uncooked bacon slices, coarsely chopped

1 small shallot, minced

1/2 teaspoon minced garlic

5 cups cooked Lady Peas

3/4 to 1 cup reserved cooking liquid from Lady Peas

3/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 cups buttermilk

Cook bacon in a large saucepan over medium heat 6 to 7 minutes or until crisp; remove bacon, and drain on paper towels, reserving 1 tsp. drippings in saucepan. Finely chop cooked bacon. Sauté shallots and garlic in hot drippings over medium heat 2 minutes or until tender. Process 3 cups peas and 3/4 cup reserved cooking liquid in a food processor until smooth. Add pureed pea mixture, remaining peas, salt, and pepper to shallot mixture. Stir in buttermilk. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, 8 minutes. (Do not boil.) Stir in up to 1/4 cup cooking liquid, 1 Tbsp. at a time, until desired consistency is reached. Spoon soup into 4 bowls, and top with bacon.