Soups Stews
Soup Recipes Online on Mydish by Matt Waterman
There is more to soup than chicken noodle and tomato! The number of different recipes for soup is nearly endless, and there is something to suit every taste. The word “soup” originally comes from the name of a thick stew that was eaten with bread- the bread sopped up the liquid in the stew, which is why we call the dish “soup”. Soup is one of those dishes that seems to be easily forgotten, but there are soup recipes that are perfect for everything from appetizers to dessert.
Broth, also called stock, is the base for most types of clear soups- anything you can think of that has a clear liquid as opposed to a creamy base. Broths are thin, and they are created by boiling meat, vegetables and spices in water. Stocks are also thin in texture, but they are made by cooking meat bones in water. Once a stock or broth is made, it is used as the base for many types of soup. All “noodle soups”, such as chicken noodle, are made with broth, so are vegetable soups and French onion soup. Beef and chicken broth are the most common types, but you will find broth made of fish, lamb, veal, or any other type of meat. Broth is a very versatile product- it can be eaten on its own, used as a soup base, or used to add flavor and moistness to stuffing or potatoes.
Bisques and chowders are another type of soup. Rather than using broth as a base, cream is used. Most people think of bisques and chowders as being those that include fish, shellfish, or other seafood, such as a lobster bisque or clam chowder. The difference between bisque and chowder is that bisque is a smooth, creamy soup while chowder has larger pieces of various ingredients. Many chowders include vegetables such as potatoes, celery, carrots. Bisques often have the same ingredients, but they are blended until they are very fine, creating a smooth texture. While both dishes traditionally contain seafood of some sort, there are many versions such as those made strictly from different types of vegetables that are favorites at many dining tables.
Dessert soups and soups that are made to be served cold are one of the most under used recipes in cooking. Gazpacho is one type of soup that many people have heard of- it is a Spanish soup that is made up of traditional broth, vegetable, and tomatoes and then pureed until it becomes smooth. The dish is then chilled and served cold, and is a perfect appetizer or even a main course in the summer. Vichyssoise is a traditional French soup recipe that is made with a cream base and then potatoes and leeks are added and the dish is served cold. Dessert soups are generally made of fruit rather than vegetables, and are served either hot or cold depending on the season. A favorite dessert soup is made of melon or cherry with a milk or cream base and a touch of champagne or brandy. Dessert soups are elegant and unexpected, and will make a big splash at your next party.
Soups are one of those dishes that everyone loves. Soup is the ultimate comfort food, but with a little imagination, soup can be a very trendy dish. Try out different soup recipes and different types of soups to see which ones you enjoy best. And next time you entertain, consider creating a special soup to use as an appetizer, or even better, as dessert!
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<a href=”http://www.mydish.co.uk/soup-recipes Matt – Waterman
Tips for Better Soups, Stews and Chilies