Endless Possibilities: Mastering the Cream of Anything Soup Mix Recipe
Cream of *anything* soup is a staple in many kitchens. It’s a versatile ingredient used to thicken casseroles, enhance sauces, and add a creamy richness to countless dishes. But commercially prepared cream of soups can be high in sodium, preservatives, and other undesirable additives. The good news? It’s incredibly easy – and much healthier – to make your own! This comprehensive guide will walk you through creating your very own “Cream of Anything” soup mix, offering endless flavor combinations and culinary possibilities.
Why Make Your Own Cream of Anything Soup Mix?
Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore the compelling reasons why making your own soup mix is a superior option:
* **Control Over Ingredients:** You have complete control over what goes into your mix. This means you can avoid unwanted additives, preservatives, and excessive sodium.
* **Healthier Option:** Homemade versions are generally lower in sodium and unhealthy fats compared to store-bought alternatives.
* **Customizable Flavors:** Tailor the flavors to your preferences! Experiment with different herbs, spices, and vegetable powders to create unique and delicious blends.
* **Cost-Effective:** Making your own mix can be significantly cheaper than buying individual cans of cream of soup, especially if you buy ingredients in bulk.
* **Dietary Adaptations:** Easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary needs, such as gluten-free, vegan, or low-sodium requirements.
* **Reduced Waste:** Reduce your consumption of single-use cans and packaging.
The Basic “Cream of Anything” Soup Mix Recipe
This recipe forms the foundation for all your cream of *anything* soup adventures. It’s a simple blend of pantry staples that, when combined with liquid and cooked, creates a creamy and flavorful base.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup Non-Fat Dry Milk Powder: Provides the creamy texture and body of the soup.
* ¾ cup Cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent.
* ¼ cup Chicken Bouillon Granules (or Vegetable Bouillon for Vegetarian/Vegan): Adds savory flavor and depth. Use a low-sodium variety for a healthier option. You can also use powdered mushroom bouillon for an even richer flavor profile in certain dishes.
* 2 teaspoons Onion Powder: Contributes a mild onion flavor.
* 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor.
* ½ teaspoon Dried Thyme (optional): Enhances the overall savory flavor.
* ½ teaspoon Dried Parsley (optional): Adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
* ¼ teaspoon Ground Black Pepper: Provides a hint of spice.
* Pinch of Salt (optional): Taste and adjust according to your preference, especially if using regular sodium bouillon.
**Equipment:**
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Mixing bowl
* Whisk
* Airtight container for storage
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a mixing bowl, whisk together the non-fat dry milk powder, cornstarch, bouillon granules, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme (if using), parsley (if using), and black pepper. Ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. **Taste and Adjust:** Taste a small amount of the mix and adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer a saltier flavor, add a pinch of salt. If you want more onion or garlic flavor, add a little more onion or garlic powder.
3. **Store in an Airtight Container:** Transfer the soup mix to an airtight container. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months. Properly stored, the mix will retain its flavor and thickening power.
Using the “Cream of Anything” Soup Mix
Now that you have your soup mix ready, let’s learn how to use it to create a creamy and delicious soup base. The ratio is key:
**Basic Soup Base:**
* ⅓ cup “Cream of Anything” Soup Mix
* 1 ¼ cups Cold Water or Broth (Chicken, Vegetable, or even Milk for extra richness)
**Instructions:**
1. **Whisk Together:** In a saucepan, whisk together the soup mix and cold liquid until smooth. This is crucial to prevent lumps from forming during cooking.
2. **Cook Over Medium Heat:** Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened to your desired consistency. The soup will thicken as it cools, so don’t overcook it.
3. **Season to Taste:** Taste the soup base and season with additional salt, pepper, or other herbs and spices as needed. Remember that the bouillon already contains salt, so add salt sparingly.
Transforming Your Soup Base into “Cream of *Anything*” Soup
This is where the magic happens! Once you have your basic soup base, you can transform it into a variety of cream of *anything* soups by adding your desired ingredients. Here are some ideas:
* **Cream of Mushroom Soup:** Sauté 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms (such as cremini, button, or shiitake) in 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil until softened. Add them to the soup base and simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You can also add a splash of sherry or white wine for extra depth.
* **Cream of Chicken Soup:** Add 1 cup of cooked, shredded chicken to the soup base. For a richer flavor, use leftover chicken broth as the liquid. Consider adding a pinch of poultry seasoning.
* **Cream of Celery Soup:** Sauté ½ cup of chopped celery in 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil until softened. Add it to the soup base. A pinch of celery seed enhances the flavor.
* **Cream of Broccoli Soup:** Add 1 cup of cooked broccoli florets to the soup base. Cheddar cheese is a classic addition to cream of broccoli soup.
* **Cream of Potato Soup:** Add 1 cup of cooked, diced potatoes to the soup base. Consider adding crumbled bacon and chopped chives for garnish.
* **Cream of Asparagus Soup:** Add 1 cup of cooked, chopped asparagus to the soup base. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavor.
* **Cream of Tomato Soup:** Add 1 (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes (drained) or 1 ½ cups of fresh tomato puree to the soup base. A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Add a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt for extra creaminess.
* **Cream of Onion Soup:** Slowly caramelize thinly sliced onions in butter until golden brown and sweet (this takes time, but it’s worth it!). Add the caramelized onions to the soup base. Top with croutons and grated Gruyere cheese for a classic French Onion Soup experience.
* **Cream of Corn Soup:** Add 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) to the soup base. A pinch of smoked paprika adds a delicious smoky flavor.
**Tips for Success:**
* **Sauté Vegetables First:** Sautéing vegetables before adding them to the soup base enhances their flavor and texture.
* **Use Fresh Herbs:** Fresh herbs add a brighter and more vibrant flavor than dried herbs. Add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.
* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooking can make the soup base too thick and starchy.
* **Adjust Consistency:** If the soup is too thick, add more liquid. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.
* **Blend for a Smooth Soup:** For an ultra-smooth soup, use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids, as they can splatter.
Flavor Variations and Customization
The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to customizing your cream of *anything* soup mix. Here are some ideas to get you started:
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or smoked paprika to the mix for a spicy kick.
* **Add Herbs and Spices:** Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as dried rosemary, oregano, basil, chives, or dill.
* **Vegetable Powders:** Add vegetable powders like spinach powder, beet powder, or carrot powder for added nutrients and color.
* **Cheese Powder:** Add cheese powder for a cheesy flavor boost. This works particularly well in cream of broccoli or potato soup.
* **Nutritional Yeast:** For a vegan option, add nutritional yeast for a cheesy and savory flavor.
* **Smoked Paprika:** A touch of smoked paprika lends a smoky flavor that is wonderful in corn or potato soups.
* **Curry Powder:** For an exotic twist, try adding curry powder to the mix. This works well with sweet potato or butternut squash soups.
Adapting for Dietary Needs
One of the best things about making your own soup mix is the ability to adapt it to your specific dietary needs:
* **Gluten-Free:** Ensure that your bouillon granules and other ingredients are gluten-free. Most cornstarch is naturally gluten-free, but double-check the packaging.
* **Vegan:** Use vegetable bouillon instead of chicken bouillon. Make sure your chosen milk powder alternative is vegan (e.g., soy milk powder, coconut milk powder). Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor.
* **Low-Sodium:** Use low-sodium or no-salt-added bouillon granules. Omit the salt from the recipe altogether and adjust the seasoning to taste with herbs and spices.
* **Dairy-Free:** Replace the non-fat dry milk powder with a dairy-free alternative, such as soy milk powder, coconut milk powder, or rice milk powder. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary depending on the alternative used.
Beyond Soup: Other Uses for Cream of Anything Soup Mix
While this mix is perfect for making soup, its versatility extends far beyond that! Here are some other creative ways to use your “Cream of Anything” soup mix:
* **Casserole Base:** Use it as a base for casseroles. Simply mix it with water or broth and add your other ingredients, such as cooked vegetables, meat, and pasta.
* **Sauce Thickener:** Use it to thicken sauces and gravies. Whisk a small amount of the mix with cold water and add it to the sauce while it’s simmering.
* **Creamy Pasta Sauce:** Create a creamy pasta sauce by mixing the soup mix with milk or cream and your favorite pasta sauce ingredients, such as tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
* **Pot Pie Filling:** Use it as a base for pot pie filling. Add cooked meat, vegetables, and broth to the soup base and pour it into a pie crust.
* **Au Gratin Dishes:** Mix it with shredded cheese and milk or cream to create a creamy sauce for au gratin dishes.
* **Scalloped Potatoes:** Use it as the creamy base for scalloped potatoes.
* **Dips:** Thicken dips for chips and vegetables by adding a small amount of the mix.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
* **Lumpy Soup:** This is usually caused by not whisking the soup mix with cold liquid before cooking. Be sure to whisk thoroughly before heating.
* **Soup is Too Thick:** Add more liquid to thin it out. Start with a small amount and add more until you reach your desired consistency.
* **Soup is Too Thin:** Simmer the soup for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken. You can also whisk in a small amount of cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water).
* **Soup Lacks Flavor:** Adjust the seasonings to taste. Add more salt, pepper, herbs, or spices as needed. Consider adding a bouillon cube or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
* **Soup is Too Salty:** This is usually caused by using too much bouillon or salt. Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors. You can also add a potato to the soup while it simmers; the potato will absorb some of the excess salt. Remove the potato before serving.
Conclusion: Embrace the Creamy Possibilities!
Making your own “Cream of Anything” soup mix is a simple and rewarding way to take control of your ingredients, create healthier meals, and unleash your culinary creativity. With this basic recipe and the endless customization options, you can enjoy a variety of delicious and comforting soups and dishes, all made with wholesome ingredients you can feel good about. So, ditch the canned soup and embrace the creamy possibilities! Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own signature soup mix, and enjoy the delicious and healthy results.