🍲 Delicious soup without bouillon cubes: natural tips & key ingredients

Craving a flavorful homemade soup without using bouillon cubes? It's possible, and even delicious! Simply choose fresh, seasonal vegetables (carrots, leeks, squash, etc.), add some fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, bay leaf), and gently sauté some garlic, onion, or shallot to start the base. 🔥 Tip: Remember to vary the textures and enhance the flavor with a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of plant-based milk at the end of cooking.

Discover our 100% seasonal homemade soup kit for ready-to-cook ideas!

• Onions, garlic, shallots : gently sautéed, they create a fragrant and delicious base.
• Root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes or celery: they bring sweetness and depth.
• Leek, turnip, squash : to vary the flavors and give body to the soup.
• Bay leaf, thyme, rosemary : to be infused during cooking, then removed before blending.
• A little tomato, either concentrate or fresh : adds a touch of acidity and colour.

Tip: Properly managing the amount of water helps concentrate the flavors (not too much, not too little!). To find the right amount, our cl/ml converter is very useful. 😊

• Cumin, curry, turmeric : perfect for warming up a winter vegetable soup.
• Freshly grated or powdered ginger : adds zest and an exotic touch.
• Sweet or smoked paprika : color and flavor guaranteed.
• Grated nutmeg : enhances soups made with squash or potatoes.
• Parsley, coriander, chives : add just before serving to keep everything fresh.

A twist of black or pink peppercorns and a pinch of fleur de sel naturally enhance the flavors; there's no need to add MSG or artificial flavor enhancers. 🧄✨

• Sweat the aromatics (garlic, onion, leek) in a little oil before adding the water and vegetables.
• Deglaze with a splash of cider vinegar or lemon juice before blending, to naturally enhance the flavor.
• Simmer gently : the gentler and longer the cooking, the more the flavors will develop.
• Add a touch of plant-based cream, a drizzle of walnut or sesame oil just before serving, to round out and enhance the soup.

Discover more creative ideas on our seasonal guides blog to vary your soups throughout the year! 🥗

• Add homemade croutons (stale bread rubbed with garlic, toasted with olive oil).
• Sprinkled with toasted seeds : pumpkin, sunflower, sesame for crunch.
• A little grated cheese (for those who like it), or a spoonful of pesto to spice things up.
• A few drops of flavored oil (hazelnut, olive, chili) as a finishing touch.

And for a truly healthy and local soup, the French vegetable garden kit saves you time and adds flavor! 🥒🌱

• Can you replace the stock cube with something else? Yes, use the cooking liquid from the vegetables, a little soy sauce, or a homemade stock made from leftover vegetables – it's natural and delicious!
• Why is my soup lacking in flavor? Perhaps it needs more aromatic vegetables (onion, garlic, herbs) or more cooking time. Don't hesitate to simmer it longer and add salt just before blending.
• How to thicken a soup without cream or stock cubes? Add a potato, some chickpeas or red lentils for texture and taste.
• Can you prepare a delicious soup in advance? Yes, it's often better reheated; the flavors develop even more! 🫕

For inspiration, explorethis selection of soup recipes and enjoy them all winter long!