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Alphabet Soup

Alphabet Soup

Alphabet Soup is a nostalgic, heartwarming soup combining tender alphabet pasta, fresh vegetables, and savory broth to create a cozy and comforting meal that’s perfect any time of year. Quick to make and easily customizable, this soup brings family-friendly flavors and playful textures to your table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetable Base

  • 1 cup carrots, finely chopped
  • 1 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1 cup onions, finely chopped

Broth

  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Pasta

  • 1 cup alphabet-shaped pasta

Tomato

  • 2 tablespoons tomato sauce or tomato paste

Fresh Herbs

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or thyme, chopped

Protein (Optional)

  • 1 cup shredded cooked chicken or 1 cup cooked beans

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Vegetables: Start by chopping carrots, celery, and onions finely to ensure even cooking and a smooth blend of flavors in the broth.
  2. Sauté for Flavor: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté until soft and fragrant, releasing their natural sweetness.
  3. Add Broth and Tomato: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and stir in the tomato sauce or paste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil to combine the flavors thoroughly.
  4. Cook the Pasta Letters: Add the alphabet pasta to the boiling soup and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender.
  5. Season and Finish: Sprinkle in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chopped fresh herbs. If using protein like shredded chicken or beans, stir them in now. Let the soup simmer for an additional minute to meld the flavors.

Notes

  • Choose quality broth, preferably homemade or low-sodium, to enhance the soup’s flavor and control salt.
  • Monitor pasta cooking closely to avoid mushiness and retain its playful texture.
  • Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve their aroma and freshness.
  • Use a wide pot for even cooking and easier stirring.
  • For thicker soup, add blended cooked vegetables or reduce the amount of broth slightly.

Nutrition

Keywords: alphabet soup, comfort food, vegetable soup, easy soup recipe, kid-friendly soup, quick soup, nostalgic recipe