🍂 Bland soup: 7 easy tips to liven up the flavor – Neary

There's nothing more frustrating than a soup that's just too bland... 😅 Several reasons can explain this lack of flavor: vegetables that are too diluted, no salt, cooking time that's too long, or a lack of fat and herbs. Sometimes, tap water can also affect the taste. Don't panic! There are plenty of easy tricks to liven up your soup and transform it into a truly comforting dish. 🔥

Also check out ourguide to the best soup recipes for even more inspiration!

• Salt : Start by tasting and adjust the salt; often the soup simply needs more seasoning. Go slowly, taste after each addition! 🧂
• Pepper : black, white, or even a 5-pepper blend for more character.
• The stock : a vegetable stock cube, a chicken stock cube or a homemade stock (diluted according to the correct ml/cl conversion ), it makes all the difference!
• Fat : a drizzle of olive oil, a pat of butter, or a touch of cream adds richness and locks in the flavors. 🧈

Generally, start with these steps before trying more original seasonings. 😋

• Fresh herbs : parsley, cilantro, chives, basil, dill… Sprinkle them on just before serving; it boosts freshness and color! 🥗
• Spices : curry, cumin, paprika, turmeric, nutmeg, ginger – dare to mix them according to the vegetables in your soup.
• Garlic and onion : sautéed and then added to the soup, they work wonders to enhance the flavors.

Try some sweet or hot chili pepper too, if you like it spicy! 🌶️

• A squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of balsamic vinegar to awaken all the flavors.
• A touch of sugar (or honey) if your soup is too acidic or bitter, especially with tomato.
• A touch of roasted garlic or mustard to add character in a simple way.
• A little grated cheese (comté, parmesan, fresh goat cheese…): guaranteed melting and delicious effect 🧀.
• Fresh cream, yogurt or coconut milk for sweetness and creaminess.

Don't hesitate to taste between each addition – that's the secret of chefs!

• Homemade croutons toasted with garlic or herbs for a crunchy touch.
• Seeds (pumpkin, sunflower, flax…), nuts or roasted almonds for crunch and richness.
• A drizzle of flavored oil (hazelnut, sesame, olive…) just before serving adds an elegant touch.
• Fresh herb shoots or sprouts for a restaurant-quality finish! 🌱

With these little extras, even a simple soup becomes a truly delightful dish. 😍

• My soup is still bland despite the salt, what should I do? Try adding spices, a touch of acidity (lemon, vinegar), or a bouillon cube. Sometimes, a little fat or fresh herbs is all it takes to transform the recipe!
• How to make a more flavorful soup? Sauté your vegetables with garlic and onion before blending them, or use homemade stock. Fresh herbs added at the last minute also make a difference.
• Can I fix a soup that's too spicy? Yes! Add a little cream, milk, or mashed potato to mellow it out. A little sugar or honey can also balance the heat. 🔥
• Can you season a cold soup? Of course! Gazpacho, chilled velouté… same principle: salt, pepper, herbs, a dash of oil or vinegar to add a twist to the taste.

For seasonal recipe ideas and more tips, check out our seasonal guides blog and the Neary homemade soup kit !