🍵 Bland soup: 7 quick tips to liven up the flavor – Neary

You've just blended your homemade vegetable soup, you taste it… and then, disappointment: the flavor is bland, lacking depth. Don't worry, it happens even to good cooks! Often, the soup lacks seasoning or contrast. Vegetables, especially when they're very fresh or in season, sometimes have a natural sweetness that can result in a somewhat neutral flavor. Sometimes, it's also a matter of cooking (too much water, not enough salt, vegetables not concentrated enough). 💦

Don't panic: there are plenty of little tricks to transform a bland soup into a flavorful creamy soup in no time. You can also discover the difference between soup, creamy soup, and broth to better adapt your recipes!

• Salt & pepper : start by adjusting the salt, then add freshly ground black pepper to awaken the aromas.
• A drizzle of olive or walnut oil 🫒 to add fat and aroma.
• A touch of acidity : a few drops of lemon juice 🍋 or balsamic vinegar instantly enhance the flavor.

Sometimes, a simple adjustment of salt or a pinch of spice is all it takes to transform a bland broth into a delicious soup. Discover more tips in these chef's tips !

• Fresh herbs : parsley, chives, coriander, dill, basil… Sprinkle on just before serving!
• Warm spices : curry, turmeric, cumin, paprika, nutmeg – a pinch is enough to travel.
• Sautéed garlic & onion : fry them in a pan to reveal their sweetness before adding them.

For winter soups, a little grated ginger or sweet chili adds a comforting warmth 🔥. You can also try a homemade blend with fennel seeds or za'atar to personalize your soup.

• Add a bouillon cube (vegetable, chicken or miso) to boost the flavor in seconds.
• A splash of soy sauce or tamari for a subtle umami that awakens everything! 🥢
• A few drops of cream, coconut milk or grated cheese for a touch of sweetness and creaminess 🧀.
• Homemade croutons toasted with garlic and herbs: crispy and delicious with every bite 🍞.

Let your creativity flow: a little pesto, a spoonful of tapenade, leftover roasted vegetables from the French garden basket … anything goes to add some depth to your soup! 🥗

• Add toasted seeds (pumpkin, sunflower, sesame) for crunch and good nutrients.
• Sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts, walnuts or almonds for a refined touch.
• A drizzle of flavored oil (truffle, chili, basil) just before serving to enhance the aroma.
• Diced raw ham, smoked tofu or bacon if you want to enrich your soup and make it more complete.

To mix things up, get inspired by our tips for reheating soup without boiling it , or discover the Neary seasonal homemade soup kit ! 😋

• How do I know if I've salted my soup enough? Taste it while it's still hot; salt tastes better at a higher temperature. Add it little by little to avoid over-salting, mix well, and adjust the seasoning at the end.
• Can you salvage a bland soup without salt? Yes! Use spices, lemon juice, soy sauce, or stock to compensate and add flavor.
• My soup is too thin, how can I make it more flavorful? Let it reduce over low heat to concentrate the flavors, or add a cooked potato and then blend. You can also add some grated cheese or heavy cream.
• What mistakes should you avoid? Too much water, not enough seasoning, or adding the herbs too early (they lose their flavor). Add them just before serving!

To go further, discover our guide on soup families and boost your ideas with the 100% seasonal homemade soup kit !