Clear soup is a comforting, light, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any season. Whether you want a healthy appetizer or a soothing meal, making clear soup at home is easier than you think. This article will walk you through the step-by-step process of making clear soup, including vegetable and chicken versions, with tips to get the best taste and clarity.
What Is Clear Soup?
Clear soup is a broth-based soup that is transparent and free from thickening agents or heavy cream. It’s made by simmering vegetables, meat, or bones gently to extract flavors, then straining out solids to leave a pure, clear liquid. The result is a light, nutritious soup that’s easy on the stomach and full of subtle flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For Vegetable Clear Soup:
– Yellow onion (1 large)
– Celery stalks (1 cup, chopped)
– Carrots (2, diced)
– French beans (about 10)
– Cabbage (½ cup, diced)
– Mushrooms (1½ cups, sliced)
– Cauliflower florets (optional, 8 pieces)
– Garlic (1 tsp, chopped)
– Ginger (1 tsp, chopped)
– Oil (1 tbsp)
– Spring onion greens or coriander leaves (for garnish)
– Salt and pepper to taste
For Chicken Clear Soup:
– Bone-in chicken (250 grams)
– Same vegetables as above
– Water (around 3 cups)
– Ginger, garlic, spring onions, salt, and pepper
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Clear Soup
1. Prepare the Vegetable Stock
Start by adding all the vegetables except mushrooms and spring onions into a large pot. Pour just enough water to immerse the veggies (around 2½ cups). Cover and simmer on low heat until the vegetables are soft and lose their raw flavor. Strain the broth to separate the liquid from the vegetables. If you want to eat the vegetables, skip straining and mash them lightly for a heartier soup.
2. Make the Clear Soup Base
Heat oil in a pan and sauté ginger and garlic until fragrant. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their aroma. Pour the strained vegetable stock into the pan and simmer until mushrooms are tender. Season with salt and pepper. Add spring onion greens or coriander leaves just before serving for freshness.
3. Optional: Chicken Clear Soup
Add bone-in chicken along with vegetables and water to a pot. Cook until the chicken is tender and falling off the bone. Remove chicken, strain the broth, and shred the meat. Sauté ginger and garlic in oil, add mushrooms and shredded chicken, then pour in the clear broth. Bring to a boil, season, and garnish with spring onions.
Tips for a Perfect Clear Soup
– Use fresh vegetables and quality chicken or bones for richer flavor.
– Simmer gently to avoid cloudiness; boiling too hard can make the broth murky.
– Strain the soup through a fine mesh or muslin cloth for crystal-clear broth.
– Add a small amount of cornstarch slurry if you prefer a slightly thicker soup, but traditional clear soup is usually served without thickening.
– Customize with herbs like coriander or spring onions for added aroma.
Why Make Clear Soup at Home?
Making clear soup at home lets you control the ingredients, avoid preservatives, and enjoy a fresh, wholesome meal. It’s versatile, quick to prepare, and can be tailored to your taste preferences. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables and bones, extracting maximum nutrition and flavor.
Clear soup is a simple yet elegant dish that anyone can master with a little patience and the right ingredients. Whether you prefer a vegetarian version or a comforting chicken broth, this soup is sure to warm your heart and nourish your body.
Enjoy your homemade clear soup hot and fresh for the best experience!