Soup Around the World: Discovering Unique Soup Traditions and Flavors from Different Cultures
Did you know that soups have been in existence ever since the Stone Age? Since soups have existed in various forms throughout the world for centuries, it is easy to see why there are so many unique traditions and flavors from all over the globe. While soup is technically quite simple in nature, this is why there are so many awesome takes on this timeless classic.
To learn more about various soups from all over the world and the place that they hold in numerous cultures, please be sure to check out this awesome guide for yourself!
Pho
Pho comes in a number of different forms and as anyone who loves this dish will tell you, the true secret lies with the broth that is chosen. For example, this recipe is centered around beef shank and marrow bones. It is a dish that originated from Vietnamese culture and has since become a worldwide phenomenon. No matter where you are in the world, you can typically find a good bowl of Pho, which is a major testament to its massive cultural influence.
Wonton
Wonton has been an integral aspect of Chinese culture and cuisine for thousands of years now. It has been able to make its way through the global pipeline because there are no shortage of recipes that are easy to make. This simple soup is made with wontons that are cooked in a light, clear broth. Depending on where you are consuming this soup, an array of veggies could be added. Bok choy is a very common choice. This allows a variety of cultures around the world to put their own spin on the dish.
Gazpacho
Originating in Spain, gazpacho has since become a cultural staple, regardless of location. In fact, gazpacho is arguably the most well-known cold soup that the world has to offer. There are a number of basic gazpacho recipes that anyone can make as well. Like many of the soups that are able to bring people together and transcend cultural boundaries, it is quite adaptable. Some may decide to swap out the tomatoes for a strawberry or some melon. All it takes is a bit of knowledge and you can adjust the soup to your liking.
French Onion
Of course, no list of this nature would possibly be complete without acknowledging the French influence. The beauty of this one lies in the usage of the most readily available ingredients. While there are more complicated recipes that rely on veal and cognac, the easier recipes are a godsend to chefs all over the world because they do not require a grocery store run. After all, we can fully understand why it has moved beyond its original French borders. Who doesn’t love an excuse to gorge on bread and cheese with their soup?
Matzo Ball
In Jewish culture, matzo ball soup holds an extremely high level of importance. Matzo gets its name from traditional unleavened bread that is consumed each year during Passover celebrations. This serves as a reminder of the hardships that the Jewish people faced when they were forced from their homeland. The bread is unleavened because they were made to leave before the bread even had a rise to chance. Now, the bread is crushed and placed in various Jewish dishes such as this one. It is warm, cozy and easily made on a low budget.
Minestrone
Minestrone soup has become such a staple of various cuisines around the world that it is easy to forget that it originated in Italy. It is still quite popular in the region where it got its start, though. This is another soup that can be made differently by a wide range of people, depending on the region of the world where it is being prepared. The type of pasta and type of beans that is chosen will make a huge difference, providing at-home chefs with a bevy of different options. Best of all, there is a wonderful slow cooker recipe that can be made with tomatoes, beans and a few added veggies.
Lobster Bisque
This is another soup whose true origin just might end up surprising a significant portion of our readers. There is a common misconception of lobster bisque as an American creation but in reality? This recipe is derived from the coastal regions of France. The soup is made from shellfish and shrimp can be used in addition to shrimp. Some may decide to serve the soup with lobster chunks, while others prefer a more smoothed-out version. Fortunately for shellfish soup lovers, this one is very easy to make at home.
Miso
Miso soup has gotten so popular around the world, that there are a legion of people who are totally unaware of which culture it originated from. You do not need to have traveled to Japan to know all about the joys of miso soup, either. With easy-to-make miso soup recipes, you are now able to recreate this Japanese staple in your own home with the usage of vegetable broth that is bought from your local grocery store. If the kombu and bonita flakes are tough to come by, you can dissolve the miso paste directly into the broth.
Kimchi Jjigae
With a plethora of different Korean soups to choose from, it was tough to narrow it down but Kimchi jjigae is the way to go. This is a soup that is designed to cater to those who like a thicker soup and it is made with vegetables, tofu or meat, depending on the preference of the chef. It is also popular because it allows those who are looking to use up their existing kimchi to come up with a recipe that suits their needs. Once kimchi has had the chance to start fermenting, you risk having to throw it away because it has seen better days. With this option, you can simmer it in your chosen broth.
Tortilla
Last but certainly not least, we would be remiss if we did not take the time to include this classic favorite that got its start in Mexico. To be more specific, tortilla soup originated in the cooler regions of the country that are located near the capital city. It is chili and tomato-based and grounded tortillas are used to make it even thicker. Cheese, beans, chicken and avocado are often added to the mix as well. Fresh lime, cilantro and fried tortilla strips are used as toppings and there is even a wonderful Instant Pot recipe that has allowed the recipe to become even more ubiquitous throughout the world.
You can also read:
- The Cultural Significance of Lentil Soup
- A Deliciously Tasty Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup Recipe
- Soup for the Senses: Exploring the Role of Aromatherapy in Enhancing Soup Experience
- Soup and Mindful Eating: Exploring the Connection between Soup and Mindfulness
- Soup for the Soul: Exploring the Therapeutic Benefits of Soup-Making
