Homemade Campbell Chunky Soup Savory Vegetable Soup Can Recipe: A Healthier Twist On A Classic Favorite

Category: Soup

Introduction

Campbell's Chunky Savory Vegetable Soup is a beloved favorite for many soup lovers, offering a hearty blend of vegetables, tender beans, and a flavorful broth that warms the soul. Since its introduction, this soup has become a staple in many households, appreciated for its convenience and comforting taste. However, many enthusiasts are now seeking ways to replicate this classic at home, aiming for a healthier, more customizable version that retains the original's charm. Making this soup at home not only allows you to control the ingredients, reducing sodium and added sugars but also offers the flexibility to adjust flavors and textures to your liking. Plus, homemade soup often costs less and can be prepared in bulk, making it a practical choice for families. In this recipe, we'll delve into how to create a homemade version of Campbell's Chunky Savory Vegetable Soup that's not only delicious but also better for you.

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own soup at home provides several benefits. For one, it allows you to use fresh, high-quality ingredients, which can elevate the flavor and nutritional content of the soup. Additionally, homemade soups can be tailored to suit various dietary needs, whether it's reducing sodium for a low-sodium diet or incorporating more vegetables for added nutrition. The process is also cost-effective, as buying ingredients in bulk often saves money compared to purchasing pre-made cans. Furthermore, homemade soups can be frozen for later use, offering convenience without the preservatives found in store-bought varieties.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the cozy afternoons I spent as a child, warming up with a bowl of Campbell's Chunky Savory Vegetable Soup after a chilly day at school. The combination of tender vegetables and savory broth was the perfect comfort food. As I grew older and became more conscious of my diet, I found myself wanting to recreate that same comforting experience but with healthier ingredients. After several trials and adjustments, I finally nailed down a recipe that not only mirrors the original's taste but also aligns with my dietary preferences. It's a testament to how homemade versions can truly enhance our favorite foods.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:30 minutes
• **Total Time:50 minutes
• **Yield:4-6 servings

Ingredients

Ingredients

Vegetables:

• 1 large onion, diced (about 2 cups or 250g)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 tbsp or 15g)
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced (about 1 cup or 120g)
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (about 1.5 cups or 190g)
• 1 large red bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup or 120g)
• 2 cups (200g) green beans, trimmed
• 2 cups (200g) corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced (about 2 cups or 300g) or 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)

Canned Goods:

• 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz or 425g)
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz or 425g)

Broth:

• 4 cups (1L) vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups (500ml) water

Seasonings:

• 1 tsp (5g) paprika
• 1 tsp (5g) dried oregano
• 1 tsp (5g) dried basil
• 1 tsp (5g) garlic powder
• 1 tsp (5g) onion powder
• 1/2 tsp (2g) black pepper
• 1/2 tsp (2g) salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp (1g) cayenne pepper (optional, for some heat)

Optional Additions:

• 1 tbsp (15g) tomato paste (for deeper flavor)
• 1/4 cup (60g) chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

• Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

• Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots, potatoes, and red bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin softening.

• Incorporate Seasonings: Add the paprika, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.

• Add Broth and Water: Pour in the vegetable broth and water, stirring to combine. If using tomato paste, add it now and mix well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

• Add Beans and More Vegetables: After 15 minutes of simmering, add the kidney beans, black beans, green beans, corn kernels, and diced tomatoes (if using fresh tomatoes, add them now). Stir gently to combine. If using canned tomatoes, add them along with the beans and other vegetables.

• Simmer to Completion: Continue simmering for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender. If the soup becomes too thick, add a bit more water. If it's too runny, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the broth.

• Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or any other spices to your liking.

• Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot, perhaps with a side of crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 tsp or add diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Smoky Version: Add 1/2 tsp of smoked paprika or 1-2 tbsp of liquid smoke for a smoky depth.
• Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium vegetable broth and reduce or omit the added salt.
• Vegan Version: Ensure all ingredients are plant-based; this recipe is naturally vegan if using vegan-friendly broth.
• Gluten-Free: Confirm that the broth and spices are gluten-free to accommodate gluten-free dietary needs.

Pro Tips

• Layered Flavor: Sautéing the spices and aromatics first enhances the depth of flavor in the soup.
• Texture Control: For a heartier soup, leave the vegetables in larger chunks. For a smoother texture, blend a portion of the soup or use smaller vegetable pieces.
• Freshness Matters: Use fresh vegetables whenever possible for better texture and flavor, but frozen options are a convenient and nutritious alternative.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh instead of canned beans?

  • Absolutely! Use 1 cup of dried beans, soaked overnight and cooked until tender, as a substitute for each can.

• How do I prevent the soup from being too salty?

  • Use low-sodium broth and season lightly, adjusting to taste at the end.

• Can I freeze this soup?

  • Yes, it freezes well. Cool it completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.

• What if I don't have all the vegetables listed?

  • Feel free to substitute with other vegetables you have on hand. The soup is versatile and adaptable.

• Is this soup suitable for a slow cooker?

  • Yes. Brown the aromatics first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Comfort: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes.
• Salad Pairing: Accompany with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Stuffed Baked Potato: Use the soup as a topping for baked potatoes, adding cheese, sour cream, and chives.
• Dip: Enjoy with crackers or crudités as a satisfying snack.

Conclusion

Recreating Campbell's Chunky Savory Vegetable Soup at home offers a healthier, customizable alternative that retains the original's comforting essence. With this recipe, you can enjoy a nutritious, flavorful soup that aligns with your dietary preferences and brings the same warmth and satisfaction as the store-bought version. The process is straightforward, allowing you to make it in bulk for convenience and share it with family and friends. Embrace the joy of homemade cooking and savor the difference that fresh, wholesome ingredients can make.