For Trader Joe's fans, these eight hacks will help you create delicious family dinners in less than 30 minutes. From easy southern-style chicken and dumplings to homemade pretzels that rival Auntie Anne's, our tips offer quck meal ideas along with other time-saving kitchen tricks to simplify dinner prep. Discover our favorite Trader Joe's hacks below.

Two-Ingredient Chili Mac

Ingredients

• TJ's Just Sauce Turkey Bolognese
• TJ's Mac ‘n Cheese

For a tasty twist on chili mac, combine Trader Joe's Mac ‘n Cheese with their turkey Bolognese sauce. Or, for more of a kick to your chili mac, use TJ's Hatch Chile Mac & Cheese.

Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Ingredients

• TJ's Organic Biscuits
• TJ’s Grilled Chicken Breast
• TJ's Organic Free Range Chicken Broth
• Herbs of your choice (we recommend rosemary and thyme)

This recipe comes from “Inside Trader Joe's,” which is the store's official podcast. In April 2023, the podcast hosts revealed an incredibly easy and quick chicken and dumpling soup recipe. Follow these instructions and enjoy your chicken and dumplings in about fifteen minutes.

• Cut the biscuits into quarters.
• Depending on your preference, roll them into balls or cut them into strips.
• Add pre-cooked chicken breast to the already heated chicken broth.
• Add any spices you choose.
• After about 15 minutes, you will have an easy and delicious chicken and dumpling soup.

You can also customize the recipe by adding cream for a thicker soup or vegetables such as spinach or carrots.

Tomato & Roasted Red Pepper Soup with Chimichurri Rice

Ingredients

• TJ's Organic Tomato & Roasted Red Pepper Soup
• Frozen bag of Peruvian-Style Chimichurri Rice with Vegetables

This Trader Joe's hack combines a carton of TJ's Organic Tomato & Roasted Red Pepper Soup and a frozen bag of Peruvian-style chimichurri Rice with Vegetables to create a fulfilling combo that you can enjoy as an entrée or side dish. For some reason, the soup's rich tomato and red pepper flavors pair perfectly with the aromatic rice.

Falafel Tabbouleh Bowls with Tzatziki

Ingredients

• TJ's Fully Cooked Falafel
• TJ's Tzatziki
• TJ's Tabbouli
• TJ's Power to the Greens salad mix

If you are looking for a convenient meal-prep option, consider making Falafel Tabbouleh Bowls with Tzatziki using all Trader Joe's ingredients. In fact, this Trader Joe's meal hack would be a great lunch option for work.

To assemble your meal, scoop two tablespoons of Trader Joe's Tzatziki into a small, lidded, single-serve container. Add your desired amount of Trader Joe's Tabbouli and one-fourth of a bag of the salad mix to the container. This meal can be stored in the fridge for up to four days. When you are ready to eat, simply reheat the falafel in the microwave, add it to the tzatziki, and enjoy. Heating the falafel for one minute in the microwave is the most intensive part of this meal's preparation.

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Ingredients

• TJ's Organic Free Range Chicken Stock
• TJ's Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken
• TJ's Mediterranean Style Orzo Pasta Salad

For a quick Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, shred Trader Joe's pre-cooked Lemon Chicken and add it to a large stockpot. Then, add two tubs of Mediterranean Orzo Salad and two cartons of chicken broth. Bring to a boil and enjoy with a squeeze of fresh lemon. You will be enjoying your soup in less than 15 minutes.

Penne Arrabbiata with Sausage and Spinach

Ingredients

• TJ's Sweet Italian Sausage
• TJ’s Frozen Penne Arrabbiata
• Spinach

Technically, you can use any Trader Joe's sausage or pasta sauce, but we recommend this combination because it is so easy to make, and the flavors complement each other so well. To make this easy pasta dinner with greens and protein, follow these steps.

• Start by removing the casing from your favorite Trader Joe's Sausage and cooking it thoroughly.
• Add it to a prepared skillet of Penne Arrabiata.
• Add the spinach if you want to blend it into the pasta. Or you can simply serve the pasta on a bed of spinach.

Perfect Pretzels

Ingredients

• TJ's Pizza Dough
• Kosher Salt
• TJ's Everything But The Bagel Seasoning
• Butter

You can use pizza dough to make delicious buttery soft pretzels, similar to Auntie Anne's, without spending hours making the dough from scratch. To make soft pretzels at home, shape the dough into traditional pretzels or bite-sized pieces. The secret to the pretzel's chewy texture is boiling water with baking soda.

Before baking the soft pretzels, boil them in water with baking soda for a few seconds, then put them in the oven until the tops are golden brown (typically 12 to 14 minutes). Once out of the oven, brush the tops with butter, then top the pretzels with kosher salt, TJ's Everything But The Bagel Seasoning, or, if you prefer something sweet, even cinnamon and sugar.

Trader Joe's Two-Ingredient Ice Cream

• TJ’s Almond Milk (or Oat Milk)
• TJ’s Frozen Wild Boreal Blueberries

While the texture is more like a slushie rather than ice cream, it is still absolutely delicious and requires only two ingredients: the milk of your choice (we suggest almond or oat for some added flavor) and the blueberries. Simply add milk to one cup of frozen blueberries. You only need to cover the blueberries and stir. Let it sit for one minute, then stir again. Somehow, it combines into this refreshing ice cream-like texture with no blending.

Other Creative Trader Joe's Hacks To Try

Here are a few more simple Trader Joe's tips and tricks that we suggest.

• Cook Trader Joe's frozen pizza in a cast iron skillet. A Trader Joe's employee suggests doing this for the best pizza crust ever. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, place the frozen pie in a cold cast iron skillet. Then, bake the pizza in the cast iron skillet until the cheese is brown and bubbly for a crispy crust every time.
• Make DIY frozen yogurt. Another Trader Joe's employee hack is to slip a popsicle stick into the chain's six-packs of yogurt and freeze them overnight. The result is mini-frozen yogurts that are almost as good as ice cream.
• Make easy and delicious beignets. A Trader Joe's employee created this two-ingredient sweet treat, requiring only a package of TJ's Crescent Rolls and some powdered sugar. First, cut the crescent rolls into pieces. Then, fry them and toss them in powdered sugar. You can also make this beignet-like dessert in an air fryer.
• Keep your Trader Joe's natural peanut butter from separating with this hack. To prevent the oil from forming on top of natural peanut butter, store the jar upside down in the refrigerator. The cold temperature and gravity will cause the oil to rise to the bottom of the jar, making it easier to stir back into the peanut butter when you turn it over.
• Put TJ’s Everything But the Bagel Seasoning on chicken and onion rings. This seasoning is one of the most popular items at Trader Joe's because it can be used on many different kinds of food. We recommend adding this seasoning to your chicken tenders for a quick upgrade. Furthermore, it is delicious on fried pickles and onion rings.

In Summary

If you enjoy shopping at Trader Joe's, you probably already appreciate their healthy products and affordable prices, not to mention their eco-friendly policies. Another great thing about Trader Joe's is the way you can create many kinds of meals using their budget-friendly products, which allows you to prepare healthy food for your family while spending less time in the kitchen. With our eight hacks, you can create delicious foods and desserts for yourself and the entire family.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©ablokhin / iStock Editorial via Getty Images.

The post 8 Trader Joe’s Dinners You Can Make in 30 Minutes Flat appeared first on Moms Who Think.

It’s finally fall. That means time to put away the swimsuits and break out the throw blankets. Perhaps nothing is more “fall” than a warm bowl of delicious and hearty soup. When you’re looking for an easy-to-make, nutrient-rich meal for your family, any of these soup recipes is the way to go. Consider your meal planning complete — at least for this week.

Zucchini Soup

For a warm bowl of fresh-from-the-garden soup, look no further than this tasty option with zucchini as the main event. So yummy! Get the recipe here.

French Onion Soup

This crockpot soup is simple and tasty and topped with a nice, warm, cheesy piece of toast. Add this one to your repertoire, and you’ll have an easy go-to dinner any night of the week. Get the recipe here.

Black Bean Soup

This thick and hearty soup is packed with flavor and protein. Top with sour cream and green onions, or crunch up some tortilla chips for an added layer of texture. Get the recipe here.

Bread Bowl Potato Soup

Few things are made better by the vessel in which they are held, but this bread bowl potato soup recipe is the exception. Enjoy your meal and then eat the bowl. It’s the very definition of decadence. Find the recipe here.

Mexican Corn & Bean Soup

For a meal with a decidedly Mexican flair, this corn and bean soup delivers. A few simple-to-procure ingredients combine to create a savory meal your family will love. Click here to get the recipe.

Tomato Bisque

A few simple ingredients and a whole lot of love make this recipe a winner. Pair it with a tasty grilled cheese sandwich, and you have the quintessential fall meal. Get the recipe here.

Vegetable Soup

No soup list would be complete without a hearty, veggie-packed vegetable soup recipe. This one features all the produce greatest hits, including cabbage, cauliflower, celery, carrots and more. Get the recipe here.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©flanovais/Shutterstock.com.

The post A Week’s Worth of Soup Recipes appeared first on Moms Who Think.

For a delicious, protein-packed meal, this black bean soup recipe is ideal. Hearty and flavor-packed, this recipe is one your family will request time and again.

Black Bean Soup

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• Author: Ashley Haugen

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 Tablespoon lime juice
• Toppings: chopped cilantro, sour cream, diced avocado, shredded cheese, tortilla chips

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Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and bring out their flavor.
3. Add the black beans, vegetable brother, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. For a thicker consistency, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup. You can blend as much or as little as you like, depending on your preferred texture. Alternatively, transfer a portion of the soup to a blender, blend and return to the pot.
5. Stir in the lime juice and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the spices if needed.
6. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings like chopped cilantro, sour cream, diced avocado, shredded cheese, or tortilla chips.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©flanovais/Shutterstock.com.

The post Black Bean Soup appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Late summer and early fall always yield a bounty of zucchini. Put that fresh produce to good use with this delicious zucchini soup recipe. Light yet filling, this soup is easy to make in big batches to freeze for later.

Zucchini Soup Recipe

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• Author: Ashley Haugen

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium zucchini, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 medium potato, peeled and chopped (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1/2 cup fresh basil
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh parsley or dill and croutons for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and saute until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the chopped zucchini (and potato, if using) to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the zucchini starts to soften.
3. Add broth to the mixture and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until zucchini and potato are tender.
4. Remove the soup from the heat. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, or if you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer mixture to a blender and blend until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk. Season with salt, pepper and lemon juice to taste.
6. Serve warm in bowls garnished with fresh parsley or dill. Add croutons.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©New Africa/Shutterstock.com.

The post Zucchini Soup Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

If you were to ask ten random people to name three kinds of soup, chances are good that most of them would include French onion in that list. This is one of the most popular and well-known soups around. Every family needs to have a good French onion soup recipe in their repertoire, and this is one of the best.

We don't add any unnecessary ingredients or extra flair here. The focus is on getting a good bowl of French onion soup to your table as painlessly and easily as possible. That's why we're making good use of a slow cooker in this recipe. You will need to do some cooking before throwing the ingredients together in your crock pot, but nothing too hard or time-consuming.

Once in the slow cooker, this soup will need to cook for six to seven hours on low. Once it's done, you'll prepare your bread. The bread for this recipe is really what ties it together. Place some cheese on each slice and pop it under the broiler for a short amount of time, just long enough to get the cheese bubbly.

Enjoy!

French Onion Soup

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• Author: Ashley Haugen

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 1/4 cup butter
• 3 cups onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup dry white wine or beef broth
• 6 slices French bread
• 6 slices mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add onion and cook for 15-20 minutes until soft.

3. Stir in sugar and salt and stir until golden.

4. Add flour, mix well.

5. Combine onion mixture, broth, and wine or broth in a slow cooker.

6. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours.

7. When ready to serve, top bread slices with cheese and place under broiler until cheese is bubbly.
8. Ladle soup into bowls and top with cheese bread.

French Onion Soup

Ingredients:

The image featured at the top of this post is ©zi3000/Shutterstock.com.

The post Try This Incredible French Onion Soup Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

One of Olive Garden's most popular menu items is the hearty and comforting Chicken Gnocchi Soup. This delicious, creamy soup features tender pieces of roasted chicken, soft traditional Italian dumplings, and flavorful spinach.

While enjoying this soup with Olive Garden's endless breadsticks is great, you can easily replicate this recipe at home and feed the entire family for less money. Furthermore, if you are short on time, you can use rotisserie or leftover chicken and store-bought gnocchi for this recipe. We promise it will taste just as good as the Olive Garden original.

How Popular Is Olive Garden's Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Unlike many of today's restaurants, Olive Garden was established as a chain restaurant in 1982 rather than starting as an individual restaurant. The Italian family-themed chain restaurant experienced almost immediate success.

Olive Garden was initially famous for its unlimited salad helpings. Eventually, the restaurant began offering unlimited soups and breadsticks as well. No one is quite sure when its Chicken Gnocchi Soup first appeared on the menu. However, this savory soup has gained such popularity that people have been trying to recreate this hearty dish using online recipes since 2010.

In a recent Mashed poll, Olive Garden's Chicken Gnocchi Soup was ranked as the second most popular item on their menu, surpassing even some of their most well-known entrées. Furthermore, many people order this soup as an entrée because it is so filling and delicious.

What Ingredients Are In Olive Garden's Chicken Gnocchi Soup?

Olive Garden does not disclose the exact ingredients of this popular soup, but it does list some basic ingredients. Chicken, potato gnocchi dumplings, and a medley of vegetables such as onions, celery, and carrots are all simmered together in a flavorful chicken broth. The soup is enriched with heavy cream. Spinach is also a key ingredient in this soup, while garlic, thyme, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper provide well-balanced seasoning. Our copycat recipe incorporates these ingredients to replicate Olive Garden's soup as closely as possible.

Nutritional Information

While the calories aren't too offensive, the sodium count in Olive Garden's Chicken Gnocchi Soup is through the roof, which is one more reason to make it at home yourself. Here's a quick peek at the nutrition facts:

• Calories: 230
• Total Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 1290mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 22g
• Protein: 11g

Can I Make My Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup in a Slow Cooker?

You can definitely make this copycat soup in a slow cooker. We suggest using cooked, diced chicken. You will also need to sauté the garlic and vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker.

Using the ingredients and portions specified in the recipe below, follow these steps to prepare this Olive Garden copycat soup in a slow cooker.

• Place the garlic and vegetables in the bottom of your slow cooker.
• Next, add the liquids and all the other ingredients except the gnocchi, heavy cream, and spinach. You will add these three ingredients just before serving.
• Cook this soup on low for three to four hours.
• Add the gnocchi during the last hour of cooking.
• Before serving, add the half-and-half and spinach, which should wilt quickly.

Finally, enjoy your copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup!

Tips for Making the Best Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Follow these simple tips to create the best version of our copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home.

• Use high-quality plain potato gnocchi for the best texture and flavor.
• If you are adventurous, you can make your own gnocchi.
• Cornstarch can thicken soup. If you need to thicken your copycat soup, whisk a tablespoon of cornstarch with some broth before adding it to the simmering soup.
• We recommend using fresh spinach in this recipe rather than frozen spinach. Unfortunately, frozen spinach will likely become mushy in this soup. The fresh spinach added at the end wilts immediately but stays fresh and light since it will not overcook.

Helpful Chicken Tips for Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Since chicken is a key ingredient, here are some specific chicken tips for preparing this copycat soup recipe.

• We recommend using pre-cooked, diced, boneless, skinless chicken for easier preparation. If cooking yourself, dice the chicken before cooking for quicker cooking time. Cook in olive oil until done, then season the chicken with salt and pepper.
• You can also buy pre-shredded, cooked chicken from the supermarket. It is pricier but more convenient. It is worth noting that using shredded chicken instead of cubed chicken will change the texture of the soup.
• Another option is to shred a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Many grocery stores reduce the price of rotisserie chicken at the end of the day. As a result, you might be able to find it at a discount just before closing time.

What to Serve With Your Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup

While this hearty soup is satisfying by itself, you might want to consider adding some sides to complement your homemade Olive Garden-style soup. Here are some ideas for sides that would make great additions to your meal.

• Bread Rolls – Instead of breadsticks, try this soup with Mama Shirley's bread rolls.
• Salads – Soup and salad is a classic combination. Try this copycat soup with our Cherry Tomato Salad. For a taste of Italy and a hearty meal, try pairing this soup with this Pizza Salad recipe.
• Desserts – If you are ready to go straight to dessert, try our Lemon Raspberry Tiramisu Parfaits. Or perhaps this quick and easy Tiramisu recipe. Finally, for those watching their calories, we offer 12 decadent dessert options, each under 300 calories.

If you are feeling really hungry and need more than just sides, we have several options. Consider pairing this soup with our Easy Lasagna recipe. Or perhaps this one-pan Healthy Italian Vegetable Bake is more your speed. 

And, of course, you can never go wrong with a delicious Chicken Parmesan that the whole family will love. If you need more Olive Garden food, try some of these other Olive Garden recipes to pair with your soup. This soup would be great with Olive Garden's bruschetta or vegetable lasagna.

How to Store Leftovers of Your Copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup

After the soup has cooled to room temperature, store it in airtight containers. You can keep this soup in the refrigerator for up to a week. Furthermore, store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth if needed.

Final Thoughts

When you do not feel like making the trip to Olive Garden and dining out with the whole family, you can prepare a satisfying copycat Chicken Gnocchi Soup at home. Not only is it a convenient alternative, but it is also much cheaper than dining at the popular chain restaurant. Yes, even with the unlimited breadsticks.

If you are short on time, you can make this soup without compromising on flavor by using pre-cooked chicken and store-bought gnocchi. If you are a fan of slow cooking, you can easily adapt this recipe for the slow cooker with a few simple adjustments. However you choose to prepare this tasty copycat Olive Garden Chicken Gnocchi Soup, you will feel like you are dining at the restaurant as the whole family requests unlimited servings.

Olive Garden's Chicken Gnocchi Soup: Copycat Recipe

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• Author: Bobbie Morris
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: 6-8 servings

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Description

This copycat recipe reproduces the delicious Chicken Gnocchi Soup from Olive Garden.

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add the diced chicken breasts to the pot and cook until they are no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the soup back to a simmer.

6. Add the potato gnocchi to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 2-4 minutes until they float to the surface.

7. Once the gnocchi are cooked, add the fresh spinach leaves to the pot and stir until wilted.

8. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

9. Serve the soup hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-45 minutes

The image featured at the top of this post is ©AS Foodstudio/Shutterstock.com.

The post Olive Garden’s Chicken Gnocchi Soup: Copycat Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

If you enjoy shopping at Trader Joe's, you will love these eight hacks that will help you create delicious family dinners in less than 30 minutes. Our tips and tricks cover everything from making the easiest southern chicken and dumplings to creating homemade pretzels that rival Auntie Anne's. Along with offering quick and simple meal ideas, we also recommend other hacks that will save you time in the kitchen. Here are eight of our favorite Trader Joe's hacks.

Two-Ingredient Chili Mac

Ingredients

• TJ's Just Sauce Turkey Bolognese
• TJ's Mac ‘n Cheese

For a tasty twist on chili mac, combine Trader Joe's Mac ‘n Cheese with their turkey Bolognese sauce. Or, for more of a kick to your chili mac, use TJ's Hatch Chile Mac & Cheese.

Easy Chicken and Dumplings

Ingredients

• TJ's Organic Biscuits
• TJ’s Grilled Chicken Breast
• TJ's Organic Free Range Chicken Broth
• Herbs of your choice (we recommend rosemary and thyme)

This recipe comes from “Inside Trader Joe's,” which is the store's official podcast. In April 2023, the podcast hosts revealed an incredibly easy and quick chicken and dumpling soup recipe. Follow these instructions and enjoy your chicken and dumplings in about fifteen minutes.

• Cut the biscuits into quarters.
• Depending on your preference, roll them into balls or cut them into strips.
• Add pre-cooked chicken breast to the already heated chicken broth.
• Add any spices you choose.
• After about 15 minutes, you will have an easy and delicious chicken and dumpling soup.

You can also customize the recipe by adding cream for a thicker soup or vegetables such as spinach or carrots.

Tomato & Roasted Red Pepper Soup with Chimichurri Rice

Ingredients

• TJ's Organic Tomato & Roasted Red Pepper Soup
• Frozen bag of Peruvian-Style Chimichurri Rice with Vegetables

This Trader Joe's hack combines a carton of TJ's Organic Tomato & Roasted Red Pepper Soup and a frozen bag of Peruvian-style chimichurri Rice with Vegetables to create a fulfilling combo that you can enjoy as an entrée or side dish. For some reason, the soup's rich tomato and red pepper flavors pair perfectly with the aromatic rice.

Falafel Tabbouleh Bowls with Tzatziki

Ingredients

• TJ's Fully Cooked Falafel
• TJ's Tzatziki
• TJ's Tabbouli
• TJ's Power to the Greens salad mix

If you are looking for a convenient meal-prep option, consider making Falafel Tabbouleh Bowls with Tzatziki using all Trader Joe's ingredients. In fact, this Trader Joe's meal hack would be a great lunch option for work.

To assemble your meal, scoop two tablespoons of Trader Joe's Tzatziki into a small, lidded, single-serve container. Add your desired amount of Trader Joe's Tabbouli and one-fourth of a bag of the salad mix to the container. This meal can be stored in the fridge for up to four days. When you are ready to eat, simply reheat the falafel in the microwave, add it to the tzatziki, and enjoy. Heating the falafel for one minute in the microwave is the most intensive part of this meal's preparation.

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Ingredients

• TJ's Organic Free Range Chicken Stock
• TJ's Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken
• TJ's Mediterranean Style Orzo Pasta Salad

For a quick Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup, shred Trader Joe's pre-cooked Lemon Chicken and add it to a large stockpot. Then, add two tubs of Mediterranean Orzo Salad and two cartons of chicken broth. Bring to a boil and enjoy with a squeeze of fresh lemon. You will be enjoying your soup in less than 15 minutes.

Penne Arrabbiata with Sausage and Spinach

Ingredients

• TJ's Sweet Italian Sausage
• TJ’s Frozen Penne Arrabbiata
• Spinach

Technically, you can use any Trader Joe's sausage or pasta sauce, but we recommend this combination because it is so easy to make, and the flavors complement each other so well. To make this easy pasta dinner with greens and protein, follow these steps.

• Start by removing the casing from your favorite Trader Joe's Sausage and cooking it thoroughly.
• Add it to a prepared skillet of Penne Arrabiata.
• Add the spinach if you want to blend it into the pasta. Or you can simply serve the pasta on a bed of spinach.

Perfect Pretzels

Ingredients

• TJ's Pizza Dough
• Kosher Salt
• TJ's Everything But The Bagel Seasoning
• Butter

You can use pizza dough to make delicious buttery soft pretzels, similar to Auntie Anne's, without spending hours making the dough from scratch. To make soft pretzels at home, shape the dough into traditional pretzels or bite-sized pieces. The secret to the pretzel's chewy texture is boiling water with baking soda.

Before baking the soft pretzels, boil them in water with baking soda for a few seconds, then put them in the oven until the tops are golden brown (typically 12 to 14 minutes). Once out of the oven, brush the tops with butter, then top the pretzels with kosher salt, TJ's Everything But The Bagel Seasoning, or, if you prefer something sweet, even cinnamon and sugar.

Trader Joe's Two-Ingredient Ice Cream

• TJ’s Almond Milk (or Oat Milk)
• TJ’s Frozen Wild Boreal Blueberries

While the texture is more like a slushie rather than ice cream, it is still absolutely delicious and requires only two ingredients: the milk of your choice (we suggest almond or oat for some added flavor) and the blueberries. Simply add milk to one cup of frozen blueberries. You only need to cover the blueberries and stir. Let it sit for one minute, then stir again. Somehow, it combines into this refreshing ice cream-like texture with no blending.

Other Creative Trader Joe's Hacks To Try

Here are a few more simple Trader Joe's tips and tricks that we suggest.

• Cook Trader Joe's frozen pizza in a cast iron skillet. A Trader Joe's employee suggests doing this for the best pizza crust ever. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, place the frozen pie in a cold cast iron skillet. Then, bake the pizza in the cast iron skillet until the cheese is brown and bubbly for a crispy crust every time.
• Make DIY frozen yogurt. Another Trader Joe's employee hack is to slip a popsicle stick into the chain's six-packs of yogurt and freeze them overnight. The result is mini-frozen yogurts that are almost as good as ice cream.
• Make easy and delicious beignets. A Trader Joe's employee created this two-ingredient sweet treat, requiring only a package of TJ's Crescent Rolls and some powdered sugar. First, cut the crescent rolls into pieces. Then, fry them and toss them in powdered sugar. You can also make this beignet-like dessert in an air fryer.
• Keep your Trader Joe's natural peanut butter from separating with this hack. To prevent the oil from forming on top of natural peanut butter, store the jar upside down in the refrigerator. The cold temperature and gravity will cause the oil to rise to the bottom of the jar, making it easier to stir back into the peanut butter when you turn it over.
• Put TJ’s Everything But the Bagel Seasoning on chicken and onion rings. This seasoning is one of the most popular items at Trader Joe's because it can be used on many different kinds of food. We recommend adding this seasoning to your chicken tenders for a quick upgrade. Furthermore, it is delicious on fried pickles and onion rings.

In Summary

If you enjoy shopping at Trader Joe's, you probably already appreciate their healthy products and affordable prices, not to mention their eco-friendly policies. Another great thing about Trader Joe's is the way you can create many kinds of meals using their budget-friendly products, which allows you to prepare healthy food for your family while spending less time in the kitchen. With our eight hacks, you can create delicious foods and desserts for yourself and the entire family.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Kalea Martin/Shutterstock.com.

The post 8 Trader Joe’s Dinner Hacks (Easy Meals in Less than 30 Minutes) appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Soup and broth are two liquid food items that are found easily in any grocery store. Broth and soup are often used interchangeably when discussing soups, stocks, broths, and other liquid dishes. However, many people use both words and items frequently but don't necessarily know the key differences behind the food items. Let's dive into the differences between broth and soup in more detail!

Broth vs Soup: What are the Key Differences

The main difference between broth and soup is that broth is typically thinner and less filling while soup can range from thin to creamy. Both is made by simmering water with meat, but can also include bones and vegetables. Soups will often use broth as a base, but use additional amounts of vegetables, meats, and sometimes grains as well.

Broth can be drunk on its own, but it's rarely a meal. Soup can be served as a meal or as a side dish. Let's dive into more details below.

What is Broth?

Broth is a liquid base that is also known as bouillon in the kitchen. The liquid base is usually made by cooking and simmering different meats with vegetables and spices in water. The ingredients simmering allows all of the flavors to mix in the water, creating a flavored base liquid that can be used for many recipes. Broth is liquid only, as all of the meats, bones, and vegetables are removed and strained before use. This particular liquid is not cooked for as long as stock. In addition, broth is not usually made with bone.

The Texture

Due to the fact that broth is a liquid-only base, it is very thin. The vegetables and meat that are used are always strained out before it is packaged or used, therefore, it's a very thin, flavorful texture.

What is Broth Used For?

The broth is used as a base for many different recipes and dishes. This can be added to any dish for flavor, but broth has main uses in soups, gravies, sauces, and chilis. There are different types of broth as well, depending on how it's cooked and what is added to it. Many people use broth for creamy sauces to add texture, as well as soups to give it more flavor.

How to Cook Broth

To cook broth at home, you will need a few ingredients. First, you'll have to gather the meats, vegetables, and spices you are going to use in your broth. Particularly, people differentiate between chicken and beef when making broth, meaning they do not usually use both in the same broth. For spices, individuals use whatever herbs they enjoy, including salt and pepper.

Once you have all of your ingredients together, combine them in a large pot with water. Ensure that your chicken or beef is covered by water, as well as vegetables and herbs. Begin to cook the broth over medium heat on the stove. Once the water begins to boil, reduce the heat to simmer the broth. There shouldn't be any boiling bubbles coming to the surface while simmering.

Plan to cook the broth for about 1 hour. As the broth is simmering, periodically check on it to skim the fat off of the surface. The fat will rise to the top of the chicken in the pot. Next, remove the chicken from the broth and de-bone it. You can use the chicken for another recipe, freeze it, save it, or even feed it as a snack to your dog (as long as you did not use onions in the broth, as dogs are allergic). Re-add the bones into the broth and simmer for another hour.

After the broth has been simmering for 2 hours, you can strain the vegetables, bones, and herbs from the liquid. Use a large strainer with small holes so that it can strain out everything needed. Strain as many times as needed in order to render a clear broth. Once the broth is a clear liquid, place it in a storage container and let cool before storing it in the fridge.

What is Soup?

Like broth, soup is a liquid dish that is enjoyed by many. Unlike broth, however, soup is usually a standalone dish that can be eaten on its own. Broth is used in order to make soup, but not the other way around. Soup usually has a variety of ingredients added to it and is hardly ever just a clear liquid. Many soups can be either an appetizer or even a main course, depending on the type of soup you are making.

The Texture

Soup can range in texture depending on the type. There are many soups that are more watery and thinner, such as vegetable soups and even egg drop soup and wonton soup. These soups, while still having additives such as vegetables, wontons, and eggs, still remain thinner and more liquid in their texture. French onion soup happens to be a popular soup that, beneath the layer of cheese, has a thin texture. Chicken soup also has a thin texture.

There are thicker soups, as well. These are soups such as chowder, potato soup, tomato soup, and broccoli cheddar soup. The more cream that is added to a soup, the thicker the soup will be.

What is Soup Used For?

Soup is a meal in itself. It can be either an appetizer or a full-course meal, depending on how much is had and what type of soup it is. In many cultures, soup is offered as a starter. In Chinese and Italian restaurants, soups are often placed on the appetizer portion of the menu.

Many restaurants and kitchens also offer two different sizes of soups; a cup or a bowl. If someone wants soup as a starter, they will oftentimes opt for a cup of soup, which is smaller. A bowl of soup, which is bigger, can be more filling and be a main course.

Soup is also used when people feel under the weather. As many soups are made with broths that have nutrients, they can help people recover when they are sick. In addition, the liquid base allows for hydration replacement and replenishment.

Broth vs. Soup Nutrition Comparison: Calories and What's Healthier

As you can see, chicken broth is extremely low in calories as its extremely thin, with most of its volume coming from water and a low number of calories absorbed from meat, bones, or vegetables. Meanwhile, soups like chicken noodle soup that use broth as a base will often have other ingredients like noodles and meats. This gives them significantly more calories. Soups can range from low-calorie to types that are creamy and calorie-dense.

A Quick Comparison of Broth vs. Soup

Broth is typically on the thin side, which allows it to easily serve as a base for a variety of recipes. Since soup is meant to be its own meal, it usually tends to be thicker than broth. There are some soups, however, that are quite thin. It all depends on the base used and the ingredients included! Broth also tends to be lower in calories, carbs, and fat compared to soup, which makes sense considering its thinness and lower number of ingredients. Some people drink broth on its own for the purported health benefits, while others choose to just stick to soup.

If you're ready to try some amazing soups, take a look at these incredible soup recipes that your family is sure to love.

Different Soup Recipes to Try

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

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• Author: Moms Who Think
• Yield: Serves 4

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Ingredients

4 teaspoons olive oil
8 ounces skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into small chunks
Pinch of salt, plus more taste
1 medium onion, diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
2 stalks celery, diced (about 1/2 cup)
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup orzo, preferably whole-wheat
2 large eggs
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat 2 teaspoons oil in a soup pot over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, add it to the pot, and cook, stirring, a few times, until just cooked through, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a dish and set aside.

2. Add the remaining 2 teaspoons olive oil to the pot, add the onion, celery, carrot, and thyme and cook, stirring, over medium-high heat until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

3. Add 5 cups of the broth and bring to a boil.

4. Add the orzo and let simmer until tender, about 8 minutes. Turn the heat down to low to keep the soup hot but not boiling.

5. Warm the remaining 1 cup broth in a small saucepan until it is hot but not boiling.

6. In a medium bowl, beat the eggs.

7. Gradually whisk the lemon juice into the eggs.

8. Then gradually add the hot broth to the egg-lemon mixture, whisking all the while.

9. Add the egg-lemon-broth mixture to the soup, stirring well until the soup is thickened. Do not let the soup come to a boil.

10. Add the cooked chicken to the soup. Season with salt and pepper and serve.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Per serving
• Calories: 280
• Sodium: 291mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 139mg

• Taco Soup
• Baked Potato Soup
• Chicken Soup
• Chicken Spinach Soup
• Turkey Soup
• Pumpkin Soup

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When eating Chinese food, soups are a clear choice as an appetizer before the main meal. Many individuals love ordering a pint, bowl, or cup of egg drop and wonton soup. Both are staples in Chinese culture and are available on nearly every menu at a Chinese restaurant. However, what are the differences between the two soups? Aside from the ingredients, there are different origins, calories, and flavors associated with both soups.

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What is egg drop soup?

Egg drop soup is originally from China. The soup is made of eggs and chicken broth. Egg drop soup is cooked by heating chicken broth to a boiling temperature and then pouring thinly beaten eggs into the broth, cooking the eggs upon immersion. This soup is offered in many countries around the world and oftentimes contains the same simple ingredients. However, in America, the soup appears much thicker than in China. In America, cornstarch is sometimes added to the soup in order to make it thicker.

What is wonton soup?

Wonton soup is also a Chinese-originated soup. It is made with clear flavored broth and Chinese wontons, which are a version of dumplings. Wontons are filled with many different things, but most often are filled with ground pork and vegetables. However, there are also shrimp wontons available in many Chinese restaurants. Wonton soup most often comes with pork-filled wontons. Some restaurants serve wonton soup with vegetables in the broth, instead of a clear broth, depending on where you are ordering from.

Which soup has more calories?

Egg drop soup does not have a ton of calories, as there are not many ingredients in the soup. Typically, a bowl of egg drop soup will have 65 calories. Wonton soup, however, tends to have more calories as the wontons add more to the soup. However, the calorie count is not as high as one would anticipate. A cup of wonton soup typically has only 71 calories.

Which soup is higher in fat?

Many would assume that because egg drop soup has fewer calories, it is also lower in fat content. This is not the case. As it so happens, egg drop is higher in fat than wonton soup. Egg drop soup has 1.5 grams of fat, with 0.4 grams of saturated fat. Wonton soup, on the other hand, has 0.6 grams of fat and 0.1 grams of saturated fat.

Which soup has higher sodium?

Both egg drop soup and wonton soup are high in sodium. The sodium count in the soups accounts for a portion of the recommended daily sodium intake. Egg drop soup has 891.7 milligrams of sodium in a cup, while wonton soup has 905.4 milligrams of sodium in a cup.

Which soup has more carbs?

Many people who are on specific diets are looking for low-carb options when it comes to their meals. There are not many carbs in either soup, however, that does not mean there are none. In a cup of egg drop soup, there are 10.3 grams of carbohydrates. Wonton soup has typically more carbs in a cup of its soup due to the outer layer of the wonton itself. Wonton soup has 11.7 grams of carbohydrates. In retrospect, these are not high counts.

Does either soup offer protein?

Fortunately, both egg drop soup and wonton soup are sources of protein—though, not much. Due to the pork in the wonton soup and the eggs in the egg drop soup, both offer small grams of protein. Egg drop soup has 2.8 grams of protein, while wonton soup has 4.6 grams of protein.

Do either of these soups offer vitamin enrichment?

Both soups do offer some vitamin enrichment due to the ingredients in the broth and the soup itself. In comparison, egg drop soup offers more vitamin C and vitamin A than wonton soup. However, wonton soup also offers vitamins, such as vitamin B and folate.

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The bottom line

• Egg drop soup and wonton soup have similar calorie amounts, although egg drop soup is slightly lower. Both are rather low in calories, making them good choices for those watching their caloric intake.
• Like the name suggests, egg drop soup has eggs and chicken broth. Wonton soup, on the other hand, contains Chinese wontons, a form of dumpling.
• Despite being lower in calories, egg drop soup actually has higher fat content than wonton soup. This can make picking one while on a diet tougher; fortunately, both are generally okay to have while on a diet.

Chicken and Dumplings

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When you make this chicken and dumplings recipe, you'll find out very quickly the secret to culinary happiness that great cooks know. They know that it’s not a waste of kitchen skills to make a tasty dish from another era. They know that you can take care of your soul in a world that tells your body to keep going at full speed, just by turning a few simple ingredients into a nourishing meal. And by doing so, you’ll end up with great chicken and dumplings that take comfort food to a new level.

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Ingredients

Units USM

Dumpling Filling Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut up (3–4 pounds)
• 8 cups water
• 3 medium carrots, diced
• 3 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• parsley
• poultry seasoning

Cream of Chicken Soup Ingredients:
(You may substitute canned cream of chicken soup.)

• 3/4 cups additional chicken broth
• 1/4 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• 1/8 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon parsley
• Dash of paprika
• 3/4 cups milk
• 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons flour

Dumpling Ingredients:

• 2 cups flour
• 1 cup milk (whole milk)
• 1 Tablespoon baking powder
• 3 Tablespoons butter, softened
• 1/2 tsp. salt

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Instructions

1. Place chicken in a large pot with celery, carrots, parsley, thyme, poultry seasoning, salt and pepper to taste. Cover with 8 cups of water.
2. Simmer for one hour, until tender. Remove the chicken and cool enough to remove the meat from the bone.
3. Return chicken meat to pot and broth.
4. Make the cream of chicken soup by boiling in a medium-sized saucepan: the 3/4 cups additional chicken broth, 1/2 of the milk, and the seasonings for about 2 minutes.
5. In a bowl, whisk together the remaining milk and flour. Add to boiling mixture and continue whisking briskly until mixture boils and thickens.
6. Add the cream of chicken soup to the chicken meat and broth in the large pot and simmer gently.
7. To make the dumplings mix flour, baking powder and salt. Work in the butter with fingertips. Gradually add the milk.
8. Roll into golf ball sized balls, then flatten to 1/2 inch thickness.
9. Drop carefully into the hot broth and simmer the chicken and dumplings 10 minutes longer, making sure to ladle broth over the dumplings to submerge them as they cook.

Notes

You many substitute one can of cream of chicken soup in place of the homemade version. If you decide to do this, skip steps #4 and #5. We recommend trying it at least one time with the homemade version.

Both egg drop soup and wonton soup are staples of Chinese culture and are offered in American Chinese restaurants, nearly on every menu. For those who are interested in lessening their caloric intake, egg drop soup may be a better choice. However, wonton soup offers more protein and more vitamin B. On the other hand, egg drop soup is a great source of vitamin C. Both soups are rich in flavor and satisfying for an appetizer with any meal.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Ground Picture/Shutterstock.com.

The post Egg Drop Soup vs Wonton Soup: 6 Key Differences, Calorie Counts, and More appeared first on Moms Who Think.

A classic tomato soup recipe is a perennial favorite among families. Pair it with a delectable grilled cheese for the ultimate in comfort food. Serve it cold as a gazpacho, make it creamy as a bisque, or simply stick to the original — because sometimes you just shouldn't mess with a good thing.

Here's a tomato soup recipe that will satisfy the pickiest of palates. Double the batch and freeze half so you have an easy-to-defrost-and-serve option on busy weeknights. Swap out the chicken broth for veggie broth to make it vegetarian. Either way, it's amazing. Enjoy!

Tomato Soup Recipe

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• Author: MomsWhoThink.com

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Ingredients

• 4 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion sliced 
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons white sugar, or to taste

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Instructions

1. Gather all the ingredients.

2. Combine the tomatoes, slices of onion, a few garlic cloves, and chicken broth in a stockpot over moderate heat. To mix the flavors, bring it to a gentle boil and cook for 20 minutes.

3. Remove it from the heat and pour the mixture into a big bowl or pan after passing it through a blender or food processor.

4. Melt the butter in the now-empty stockpot over medium heat. Make a roux by stirring in the flour and heating it until it reaches a medium brown color.

5. Stir in the remaining tomato mixture after gradually whisking in small amounts to prevent lumps. Add salt and sugar, and season to taste.

6. Serve hot or cold with your desired bread or croutons.

7. Storing tomato soup: Refrigerate your homemade tomato soup in an airtight container. The soup will keep in the refrigerator for 3 – 4 days, or you can freeze tomato soup for up to 6 months in the deep freeze.  

• Category: soup

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Chatham172/Shutterstock.com.

The post Tomato Soup Recipe: An Easy Way to Feed the Family appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Although the name “bisque” initially referred to shellfish stock, it has since come to describe a blended soup that includes cream, red pepper, pumpkin, mushrooms, and, of course, tomato.

This nourishing, hearty tomato bisque recipe is bursting with flavor and nutrients. You can also garnish it with some crispy bacon bits. It will appeal to both children and adults, particularly when served with a grilled cheese sandwich on the side for dipping. Yum!

Tomato Bisque Recipe: A Dish the Whole Family Will Love

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• Author: Kay Keene
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

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Ingredients

• Your favorite tomatoes or 28 oz. of Crushed or Stewed Tomatoes in a can
• 4 cups of water OR tomato-based cooking liquid
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion
• 2x celery stalks
• Salt and Pepper
• A sprinkle of cayenne and paprika
• 1 teaspoon dry basil
• 4 cloves of garlic
• 1 tablespoon of sugar
• 50 – 125mls of heavy cream

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Instructions

As a base recipe, we will be using fresh tomatoes to create our bisque.

1. First, wash and rinse your tomatoes thoroughly. Dry and then cut a little X in the bottom of each tomato.
2. While the water is at a low boil, add the tomatoes and wait until the skin starts to come off before peeling them and adding them to your Dutch oven or stock pot.
3. Next, place the tomatoes in a dish of iced water to blanch them. Once the skin has separated from the flesh and the tomatoes are cool to the touch, you can peel the skin off.
4. Save four cups of the tomato-based cooking liquid because we'll use it to make the bisque's stock.
5. Dice the two celery stalks, four garlic cloves, and one medium onion.
6. Turn the heat to medium-high and add two tablespoons of olive oil to the bottom of your stockpot or Dutch oven.
7. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped vegetables and cook until the celery and onion are tender and transparent.
8. Add the freshly peeled tomatoes or canned stewed or crushed tomatoes once the vegetables have softened.
9. Then it's time to add our seasonings: a touch of cayenne and paprika, one teaspoon of dried basil, one teaspoon of sugar, and salt and pepper to taste.
10. Stir well to ensure that everything is well combined, then pour in the four cups of tomato stock (If not using the fresh tomato method, use water). Then add two chicken bouillon cubes.
11. To avoid burning, continuously stir the mixture while you bring it to a boil. Once it has reached a boil, reduce the heat and cover the pan with the lid. Let this cook for between 30 and 60 minutes.
12. It's time to blend everything which has had a chance to boil and cook together. All ingredients should be well mixed in the same saucepan using an immersion blender. If using a conventional blender, cool the soup first.
13. When the tomato bisque is smooth, you can pass it through a tiny sieve to further smooth it out. However, it is a matter of personal preference.
14. After the tomato bisque is in the pot again, it's time to add the heavy cream. Finally, add 50 – 125mls of the heavy cream and stir.
15. There you have it — a delicious homemade tomato bisque that is incredibly simple to make and perfect for a rainy day with your favorite grilled cheese toasty. 

• Prep Time: 10
• Cook Time: 60

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1
• Calories: 130
• Sugar: 4g
• Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Protein: 4g

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Toasted Pictures/Shutterstock.com.

The post Tomato Bisque Recipe: A Dish the Whole Family Will Love appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Have you ever wondered what the distinction is between bisque and soup? Many people believe they are the same, yet numerous differences distinguish them. In this article, we will look at what soup and bisque are and their similarities and differences. By knowing what these two dishes have in common and what makes them different, you'll be better able to choose which one to serve at your next comfortable night in or exciting dinner party.

Bisque vs. Soup: What Is the Difference?

The main difference between bisque and soup is their texture. Bisque is famous for its smooth, creamy texture, achieved by combining all the ingredients and adding roux and cream. On the other hand, Soups can have various textures, ranging from clear broths to chunky, thick mixes that contain multiple ingredients.

Another distinction is the ingredients and their preparation. Seafood, such as crabs, is typically part of bisque recipes, and such recipes require boiling the seafood shells to make a tasty stock. Soups can include a broader range of ingredients, such as meats, beans, grains, and vegetables. You can prepare these ingredients in various ways, including boiling, simmering, or slow cooking.

What is Bisque?

Bisque is a French soup often made with shellfish like lobster, crab, shrimp, or crayfish. Pureed vegetables can also form a bisque with the consistency of cream. This meal was first served in France in the 17th century as a thick soup filled with game birds.

Bisque has changed over time to include more seafood, especially shellfish. However, people still dispute where the word “bisque” originates: the Bay of Biscay, a French province notable for its seafood, or the Old French word “bis” and “cuite,” which means “twice-cooked,” because bisque typically requires cooking the components twice.

Key Ingredients and Preparation Methods of Bisque

Bisque is a delicious food that is good to make any time of the year. You can use different ingredients and prepare bisque differently depending on what kind of dish you wish to make. Some things you should consider are:

1. Seafood: Lobster, crab, shrimp, and crayfish are some popular shellfish that are typically part of the preparation of bisque. Adding shellfish makes the dish thick and gives it an oceanic flavor.
2. Vegetables: Onions, celery, and carrots are all common choices for adding layers of flavor to bisque.
3. Cream: Bisque needs heavy cream to give it a velvety texture and enrich the flavor.
4. Herbs and spices: You can improve the taste of your dish by adding garlic, thyme, bay leaves, paprika, or cayenne pepper.
5. Roux: A blend of grain and fat will give your dish a creamy texture.

Preparation Methods:

1. Sauté the shellfish and fresh vegetables in butter or oil in a pan.
2. Simmer the seafood shells with wine, vegetables, and herbs to make a stock with many flavors.
3. Pour the stock through a strainer and mix it with a roux to make the bisque thicker.
4. Add heavy cream to the mixture and boil until the flavors come together.
5. Season the bisque to taste and serve it with toppings you like.

Common Types of Bisque

Bisque comes in various flavors to appeal to a wide range of tastes. Popular options include seafood dishes with lobster, crab, and shrimp. Lobster bisque is popular because of its rich, creamy texture and garnished with lobster meat.

There are vegetarian options for bisque, such as tomato and butternut squash, with fantastic flavors and textures. You can also make tomato bisque, cooked with tomatoes and topped with fresh basil. Butternut squash bisque has a silky texture and is sweet and tasty, perfect for a comforting vegetarian dish.

Nutritional Benefits of Bisque

Seafood bisque has a lot of protein and omega-3 fatty acids suitable for your heart and brain. In addition, vegetarian bisque is high in vitamins and minerals, which promotes immune system health while providing healthy skin. You can enjoy the wonderful texture of bisque while keeping a balanced nutritional profile by substituting low-fat cream for heavy cream.

What is Soup?

Soup is a liquid food created by heating various ingredients in water or stock. It can be either hot or cold and it's usually served before the main course. Many consider soup a comfort food, and it is delicious when it's cold outside.

Soup had existed since 20,000 BC when people started producing broths in mud and clay pots. Over time, soup went from a simple dish to a royal way to start a luxury buffet by adding different toppings, spices, and meat.

Key Ingredients and Preparation Methods of Soup

Soup is a wonderful and customizable meal that you can enjoy all year. The primary ingredients and preparation methods might differ depending on the type of soup you want to make. Here are some essential guidelines:

1. Broth: This is the base of the soup and where the flavor comes from. Water, chicken broth, beef broth, vegetable broth, and other broths are some common choices.
2. Vegetables: A good soup has several parts, but vegetables are essential to many soups. You can use any vegetables, like celery, potatoes, tomatoes, onions, carrots, or others.
3. Protein: Chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp all provide protein to your soup.
4. Herbs and spices: Use bay leaves, garlic, ginger, thyme, and other spices to flavor your soup.
5. Noodles or grains: You don't have to add noodles, rice, or grains to soups, but doing so will make your dish fuller.

How to Prepare:

1. Sauté the meat and vegetables in butter or oil in a saucepan.
2. Bring the broth and spices to a low boil in a saucepan.
3. Put the noodles or grains in the saucepan and cook them according to the instructions on the package.
4. Simmer the soup on low heat until the vegetables get soft and the flavors have mixed.
5. You can add fresh toppings to the soup and serve it.

Common Types of Soup

There are many types of soup, the most common being thins soup. Uncommon soups include consommé, purée, cream, chowders, and cold soup. Each soup has a great taste, but let's go in-depth into the qualities that put these soups in their classifications.

• Thin Soup: Prepared without the use of a thickening agent, this form of soup is typically a clear, flavorful, and nutrient-rich liquid.
• Consommé: Adding meat, herbs, and spice gives this soup an intense flavor.
• Purée Soup: Because starchy vegetables like potatoes and pumpkin get puréed into the soup, this soup gets made without a thickening agent.
• Cream Soup: Made with a purée of fish, meat, or vegetables and thickened with cream.
• Chowders: A chowder is a hearty soup with a tomato or milk base thickened with potatoes.

Nutritional Benefits of Soup

Soup, depending on the ingredients, has the potential to be incredibly healthy and beneficial to you. Broths prepared from vegetables, bones, or meat contain vitamins, nutrients, and minerals that are good for your health and immune system. Soup's high fiber content also makes you feel full, which can aid in weight loss.

Bisque vs. Soup: How Are They Similar?

Bisque and soup have various similarities, starting with the fact that they are both liquid-based foods served warm or hot. Both comprise multiple ingredients, including vegetables, proteins, and seasonings, resulting in diverse flavor profiles and textures. In addition, depending on the ingredients and the size, bisque and soup can be served as appetizers or main dishes.

Another thing that bisque and soup have in common is how cooks can alter them to fit different tastes or nutritional needs. Both are easy to make vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free by changing the ingredients or adding substitutions such as vegetable broth, dairy substitutes, or gluten-free thickeners. Also, both bisque and soup can be cooked ahead of time and placed in the refrigerator for later. Storing this dish makes it easy to use when planning meals.

Bisque vs Soup Nutrition

Generally, bisques have higher calories and fat content when compared to soups. That's because they often have added creams or other thickening agents. In the table above we've compared tomato bisque and soup, which are both very popular. As you can see, the tomato bisque has more calories and fat. Both soups and bisques can have their nutritional values skewed heavily by added ingredients like chicken, fish, or vegetables.

Bisque Recipes

• Butternut Bisque with Ravioli
• Tomato Bisque

Soup Recipes

Creamy Chicken Spinach Soup

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• Total Time: 45 minutes

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Ingredients

• 1 (9 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 (14½ ounce) can fat-free, reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 2 (10¾ ounce) cans reduced-fat, reduced-sodium cream of chicken soup
• 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 (9 ounce) chicken breast, chopped and cooked
• 2 cups fat-free milk
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

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Instructions

1. Cook tortellini according to package directions, using 1 can broth instead of water. Add soup and remaining ingredients stirring well.
2. Bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook until thoroughly heated.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Vegetable Soup
• Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup
• Broccoli Cheese Soup
• Tortilla Soup
• Turkey Soup

Final Thoughts

• Bisques are known for their smooth, creamy texture. Soups, on the other hand, can be light and thin or thick and chunky. They offer a lot of options for a wide variety of preferences.
• A bisque usually has seafood in it, but this isn't a requirement. Soups, on the other hand, are made with an extremely wide variety of ingredients.
• Soup is better for those watching their fat and calories, since it's usually lower in those areas than bisque. If you want to eat bisque on a diet, make sure you do so in moderation.

To summarize, while bisque and soup have some similarities, such as being liquid-based and adaptable to different diets, they differ in texture, ingredients, and cooking methods. Bisque gets distinguished by its smooth, creamy texture and is often cooked with seafood, whereas you can make soup with various textures and ingredients. Understanding these distinctions will help you select the ideal dish for any occasion, whether searching for a rich, silky bisque or a comforting soup.

The post Bisque vs. Soup: What’s the Difference? appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Have you ever come across chili beans and kidney beans in your local grocery store and wondered what makes them different when they seem so identical? While these two beans may look similar, they have distinct differences in taste, texture, and appearance.

In this post, we'll take a closer look at both chili beans and kidney beans, plus explore a few tasty substitutes you can use if you're in a pinch or if you're simply looking to try something different.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this guide will help you choose the perfect bean to use with your next meal.

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Chili Beans vs. Kidney Beans: What Is the Difference?

Many confuse chili beans and kidney beans with one another because they are interchangeable in many recipes. However, these two beans differ widely in texture, flavor, and appearance. They are also packaged and prepared differently.

What Are Chili Beans?

Chili beans are simply beans (like pinto beans for example) cooked in a chili and meat sauce. You can buy them canned and ready to use at your local grocery store, or make them at home where you have more control over the flavor and texture.

Because you can purchase chili beans ready to use in the canned goods section of your grocery store, they are available at different levels of heat, ranging from mild to hot. They are good over dishes like cornbread, burritos, or hotdogs to complete a meal.

How to Prepare Chili Beans at Home

If you prefer to make your own chili beans at home, you'll need a few simple ingredients and your favorite dried bean.

First, choose which beans you'd like to use. Pinto beans are the most popular, but you can also choose navy or garbanzo beans. It's best to soak your beans anywhere from five hours to overnight.

After you soak your beans, begin cooking vegetables like onions and pepper in oil on your stovetop. Add seasonings like chili pepper, salt, pepper, cumin, and other spices to your liking. Then, add your beans and cover them with water. Let the mixture simmer for one to three hours until the beans have reached your desired consistency and taste.

You can store the chili beans in the refrigerator for up to a week, or frozen for up to 3 months.

What Are Kidney Beans?

Kidney beans originate from Mexico and Central America and get their name from their kidney-like shape. They come in different colors, ranging from ivory to red, and contain high levels of fiber and protein, making them a healthy choice to add to dishes.

These legumes can be purchased either dry or cooked and canned. Keep in mind that it's very important for dry kidney beans to be cooked before using them in any meal as dry, uncooked kidney beans in their natural form are considered toxic.

How to Prepare Kidney Beans at Home

If you have dry kidney beans and intend to use them in your next meal, you'll need to boil them and prepare them properly before use.

It's best to soak your kidney beans overnight, or at least up to 5 hours. Then discard the water used for soaking and give your beans a good rinse with fresh water.

Once you have rinsed your beans, bring them to a boil on your stovetop. Then turn your heat down to allow the beans to simmer anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes. The time they need to simmer will depend on the age of the beans and how long they were soaked before boiling.

When the beans are creamy and tender, you can rinse them for use in your next recipe. Similar to chili beans, you can store kidney beans in the refrigerator for up to a week and in the freezer for up to three months.

Are Chili Beans and Kidney Beans the Same Thing?

As mentioned, these two beans differ in terms of appearance, taste, and texture. Here's an in-depth look at what really sets them apart.

Appearance

Chili beans are usually smaller than kidney beans. Because chili beans can be made from black, red, pinto, or navy beans, they tend to be smaller in shape. Kidney beans, on the other hand, are larger and shaped like a kidney. They are also usually dark red or light in color.

Taste

Chili beans have a slightly sweeter taste and extra flavor that comes from being cooked in a chili sauce. Kidney beans have a stronger, earthier flavor.

Texture

Chili beans have a creamier texture and tend to break down more easily when cooked, making them a good choice for soups and stews. Kidney beans hold their shape better when cooked and are often used in salads or as a side dish.

Nutritional Value

Both chili beans and kidney beans are good sources of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. However, kidney beans are slightly higher in protein and fiber than chili beans and offer numerous health benefits.

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Best Substitutes for Chili and Kidney Beans

If you don't have chili or kidney beans on hand or you don't like their taste or texture, there are several other types of beans that you can use as substitutes. Here are a few options to try.

Black Beans

Black beans are a popular substitute for kidney beans in many recipes, as they have similar texture, flavor, and nutritional benefits. These beans are great substitutes for soups, stews, and salads.

Cannellini Beans

Cannellini beans are a type of white bean that has a creamy texture and nutty flavor. These beans can be used in place of kidney beans in many recipes, especially in salads or Italian dishes.

Navy Beans

Navy beans are small, oval-shaped beans that have a mild flavor and creamy texture. They can be used as a substitute for chili beans or kidney beans in soups, stews, and casseroles.

Pinto Beans

Pinto beans are often used in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine. They have a slightly earthy flavor and a similar texture to kidney beans. Oftentimes, these are the beans you will find in canned chili beans.

Garbanzo Beans

Also known as chickpeas, garbanzo beans have a nutty, buttery flavor and firm texture, making them a good substitute for kidney beans in salads, stews, and curries.

Chili Bean Recipes

• Four Bean Chili
• Meatless Monday Chili Mac
• Cornbread Topped Chili

Kidney Bean Recipes

Black Bean and Vegetable Chili

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Ingredients

1 pound fresh white mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
6 cups sliced carrots (about 12 medium carrots)
6 cups sliced celery (about 12 stalks)
4 cups chopped onion (about 4 medium)
2 large green bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
12 cups red sauce
8 (15 ounce) cans kidney beans
4 (15 ounce) cans black beans
4 tablespoons chili powder
4 tablespoons hot pepper sauce
4 teaspoons minced garlic
4 teaspoons dried oregano
4 teaspoons black pepper

Supplies:

4 one-gallon freezer bags, labeled

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Instructions

1. Into each freezer bag measure one-quarter of the mushrooms, 1 ½ cups carrots, 1 ½ cups carrots, 1 cup onions, one-quarter of the bell peppers, 3 cups red sauce, 2 cans kidney beans, 1 can black beans, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic, 1 teaspoon oregano, and 1 teaspoon black pepper.

2. Seal and freeze.

To Serve:

1. Completely thaw one entrée in the refrigerator.

2. Cook chili in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat for 1 hour, or until liquid cooks off and chili is thick.

Yield: 3 entrees, 4-6 servings each

Notes

Freeze up to: 4 months

• Healthy Beef and Bean Chili
• Cheesy Baked Chili Mac Casserole
• Cornbread and Bean Casserole
• Meatless Sweet Potato Chili

Final Thoughts

• Chili beans can refer to any bean that has been cooked in a chili and meat sauce. Kidney beans are a specific type of bean; you can use kidney beans to prepare chili if you want!
• Due to the way they're prepared, chili beans tend to have a sweet taste. Sometimes, chili beans can actually be quite spicy, depending on the ingredients used. Kidney beans, meanwhile, have an earthy flavor.
• Chili beans break down more when cooked, while kidney beans are better at holding their shape. This makes kidney beans a popular choice for recipes that need beans with a defined, solid form.

While chili beans and kidney beans may seem similar, they each have their own unique characteristics that make them suitable for different types of dishes. Chili beans are a flavorful, medium-sized bean that hold their shape well and are often used in Tex-Mex and Southwestern cuisine. Kidney beans are larger and have a softer texture, making them a versatile bean that can be used in a wide range of dishes, from chili to salads.

Whether you're cooking up a pot of chili or crafting a gourmet salad, beans are a versatile and nutritious ingredient. By understanding these differences, you can choose the perfect bean for your next recipe and take your culinary creations to a new level.

The post Chili Beans vs. Kidney Beans: Which One Is Right for Your Dish? appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Tomato soup is one of the most popular and versatile soups in the world. It's a soup that's used everywhere from school cafeterias to high-end restaurants. Yet, you've likely also seen tomato bisques on menus and wondered just what the difference between tomato soup vs tomato bisque is.

Let's dive into the differences between tomato soup and tomato bisque including nutrition and the history of where these soups originated from.

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Tomato Soup vs. Bisque: What Is the Difference?

The main difference between tomato soup and tomato bisque is that tomato bisque includes heavy cream or other thickening agents. Tomato bisque is generally heavier, incorporates more flavors, is often cooked with seafood, and has more calories per serving. Beyond the addition of cream, the two meals have fundamental differences in their variety and origins.

When creating a delicious and hearty tomato soup or tomato bisque, it usually involves combining tomatoes, sometimes with chicken or vegetable stock and extra liquid. These are the basic ingredients for making any tomato soup or tomato bisque.

Whether served hot or cold, you can always add your favorite side dish. Rich and cheesy sides taste perfect with tomato soup or tomato bisque and draw out the best flavors.

Tomato soup is widely accepted as a liquid dish, though it is actually less processed and more chunky in many regions. Typically, the soup isn't pureed and contains more significant bits of meat and vegetables such as carrots, parsley root, celery root, etc.

Tomato soup is a soothing classic for a reason. It can be luscious, creamy, comforting, hearty, or even zesty, fun, and rich.

That familiar scent you love can fill your mind with a mouth-watering feeling before you even take that first bite. Tomato soup can take anywhere from 15 min – 30 min to make. 

Where Did Tomato Soup Originate?

Tomato soup originated in Andalucía in southern Spain. Interestingly enough, tomatoes belong to the same plant family as Atropa belladonna, also known as ‘Deadly Night Shade'. They were first thought to be poisonous until disproved in the 19th Century. In 1897, Joseph Campbell and Dr. John T. Dorrance theorized and then invented a method for condensing soups and storing them in a can ready to open and eat.

One of the company's first canned soup flavors was Beefsteak, closely followed by Tomato Soup, which soon became the company's flagship product for many years.  

Canned foods and soups became an entirely new industry of food production and preservation techniques, and it was generally simple to efficiently manufacture, store, and transport.

Canned soups and foods were easier to supply and distribute to soldiers during times of war, especially on the frontline. The canned soup would last longer, ensuring soldiers were well-fed and nutritionally supplied.

A hearty tomato soup warming the tummy on a cold night is still a loved addition to any kitchen table.

Where Did Tomato Bisque Originate?

In comparison, bisque is of French origin. Tomato bisque is especially a thicker, silkier, and creamier version of its Spanish soup counterpart.

Initially, the bisque was prepared using shellfish and seafood. The shells from the seafood, such as shrimp, clam, or lobster, never went to waste. Being crushed into a fine paste and further reduced, then finally becoming the main thickening agent.

Tomatoes, chicken or vegetable stock, and a thickening cream were later added as common ingredients. Compared to tomato soup, tomato bisque takes longer to prepare, taking anywhere from 20 min – 1 hr and 10 min to complete. 

Note: If you are ordering tomato bisque in a restaurant, you should ask if they have used seafood bisque in case you have any seafood allergies.

Can You Substitute Tomato Soup for Tomato Bisque?

Although both would taste substantially better with fresh tomatoes or canned tomatoes, you can substitute fresh or canned tomatoes with tomato sauce, French onion soup, corn soup, or tomato paste in many recipes. 

Here are five tomato variations you could try when substituting tomato soup for tomato bisque.

Tomato Sauce

Tomato sauce is a beautiful substitute for tomatoes as they have a credible tomato taste and contain no dairy products. 

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Nomato Sauce 

Nomato sauce is also used as a great substitute in any recipe. It is produced using a variety of root vegetables and flavors, contains no soy, dairy, wheat, gluten, nuts, or tomatoes, and is naturally rich in antioxidants and nutrients. However, nomato sauce is often more expensive than other tomato substitutes, so most people find cheaper alternatives that work better for them. 

Tomato Paste

Tomato paste is a beautiful substitute for cream as it has a creamy and rich tomato taste without incorporating any dairy. This is a beneficial alternative for those allergic to dairy or are lactose intolerant. 

It can also be used instead of tomatoes as it is typically cheaper than canned or fresh tomatoes. The consistency differs between brands, so you might have to thin it out with extra fluid, such as water, almond milk, vegetable stock, etc.

French Onion Soup

French onion soup is a hot, delicious soup prepared with caramelized onions. It's typically served in bread bowls or cups and topped with cheddar cheese.

Corn Soup

Corn soup is a thick and smooth soup seasoned with corn, spices, flavors, vegetables, and sometimes cheddar.

Do Tomato Soup and Tomato Bisque have the same nutritional values?

Nutrition Facts (per serving) 

As you can see, tomato bisque has more calories than tomato soup. The difference in calories will depend on how much cream is used in bisques. More added cream will also result in a much higher percentage of calories from fat macronutrients as well.

In Conclusion

• If you're looking for a hearty and filling meal, tomato bisque is definitely the way to go. Tomato soup is best for a light lunch or dinner.
• Tomato bisque often has more flavors added to it, giving it a more complex flavor profile. It can even have seafood added to it!
• Tomato soup has less fat and fewer calories than tomato bisque, making it ideal for those on a diet.

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Despite sharing some similarities, both tomato soup and tomato bisque differ in appearance, ingredients, and cooking methods. Even though tomato soup can be made with various ingredients, bisque is classified by its smooth, silky texture and is frequently cooked with seafood. Understanding these variations will enable you to choose the perfect dish for any celebration, whether you're looking for a rich bisque or a hearty soup.

Tomato Soup and Tomato Bisque Recipes

Easy Tomato Soup

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Ingredients

• 4 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion sliced 
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons white sugar, or to taste

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Instructions

1. Gather all the ingredients.

2. Combine the tomatoes, slices of onion, a few garlic cloves, and chicken broth in a stockpot over moderate heat. To mix the flavors, bring it to a gentle boil and cook for 20 minutes.

3. Remove it from the heat and pour the mixture into a big bowl or pan after passing it through a blender or food processor.

4. Melt the butter in the now-empty stockpot over medium heat. Make a roux by stirring in the flour and heating it until it reaches a medium brown color.

5. Stir in the remaining tomato mixture after gradually whisking in small amounts to prevent lumps. Add salt and sugar, and season to taste.

6. Serve hot or cold with your desired bread or croutons.

7. Storing tomato soup: Refrigerate your homemade tomato soup in an airtight container. The soup will keep in the refrigerator for 3 – 4 days, or you can freeze tomato soup for up to 6 months.

• Bisque Recipe

Easy Tips When Cooking Tomato Soup and Tomato Bisque

A large pot (sometimes called a Dutch oven) with a wide, heavy bottom is best for preparing soup or bisque. Furthermore, ensure your soup boils evenly and doesn't burn on the bottom; it is preferential that your pot is either stainless steel or enameled cast iron.

Store your tomato brisque in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days in the fridge.

The post Tomato Soup vs. Tomato Bisque: What’s the Main Difference? appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Have you thought about the differences between tomato bisque and soup? Tomato bisque is thicker than most soups and is usually a combination of tomatoes, water, chicken broth, or vegetable broth with heavy whipping cream, Greek yogurt, or pureed shellfish. There is usually no dairy in soup, which makes it thinner. Though, there are always exceptions to the rule.

In this article, we will compare tomato bisque and the base form of soup and discuss their origin, similarities, and differences. 

Tomato Bisque vs. Soup: What Is the Difference?

What is the difference? Though they are both liquid based, there are differences between the two. Each has delicious flavors and different consistency due to their ingredients and the preparation that goes into each. Tomato bisque is creamer, silkier, and rich in flavor.

Where Did Bisque Originate?

Bisque itself has its origin in France. It has a strong flavor as a creamy and tasty French soup, with added pureed crustaceans such as shrimp, lobster, or crayfish.

Where Did Soup Originate?

The first published tomato soup was created by a woman named Eliza Leslie, who was born in Philadelphia, PA, in 1787. She was known as Miss Leslie and became a famous American cookbook author in the nineteenth century.

Her book Directions for Cookery sold at least 150,000 copies, making it the most popular cookbook of the century.

Soup generally has a liquid consistency. The dish dates back to a Hebrew recipe from as early as 6000 BC that had meat and vegetables. This is considered the oldest recipe for soup.

In ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, barley and vegetables were common in soups, which were a staple food for the underprivileged classes.

In China and most of Asia, soup was and still is a staple diet food consisting of meat, fish, and vegetables with added stock variants. 

China also incorporated a technique of simmering the soup, which we still use today. Simmering allows the flavors to merge and emulsify. 

Tomato bisque and soup are both excellent cuisine dishes that have some similarities. Each of their histories is vibrant and fascinating.

What is in Tomato Bisque?

Your tomato bisque could include the following:

• A substantial amount of cream.
• A broth made from shells.
• A thickening made from rice.

In addition, the meat is prepared and used as a topping for the tomato bisque.

What Are the Similarities Between Tomato Bisque and Soup?

Both tomato bisque and soup have similarities regarding the ingredients used to prepare these dishes.

Generally speaking, bisques are pureed. Pureed beef and vegetables can be used in soups and bisques, which are similar. 

Different Types of Soup

Spice up alternative soup recipes by adding a thickening cream to give it that bisque texture and taste. 

• Chicken Noodle soup is a comfort soup and super easy to make. It tastes fabulous and is light on your stomach when you don't feel well, as it is rich in nutrients and aids in healing.

Chicken is an excellent and healthy protein source packed with zinc and other nutrients to help improve your body's immune system, and by adding the noodles to provide carbohydrates, you are getting a complete meal.

• Meatball soup – Yup, meatball soup is a real thing. It is made with tomato broth, noodles, and Italian Pork Meatballs. It is a hearty tomato soup that the whole family can enjoy. 

• If you are looking for a vegetarian soup, a Coconut Lentil Curry soup is perfect. It's creamy, rich, loaded with veggies, and can be made in under 30 minutes. Since lentils are high in fiber, iron, and potassium, they are fantastic for controlling cholesterol and blood pressure. Besides that, they include vitamin B1, which helps improve a healthy heartbeat.

• Chinese Dumpling soup, or Jiaozi, is famous in East Asia and other Western parts of the world. If you can boil water, then you can make this soup. It has bold flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic and tastes magnificent. 

• Butternut soup is another all-time favorite. Butternut contains antioxidants such as beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Antioxidants have been found to aid in preventing and slowing inflammation, which may lower the chance of developing a number of chronic diseases. It's critical to consume enough potassium to sustain healthy blood.

What is Tomato Bisque?

Rich tomato flavors and a smooth, creamy texture define the tomato bisque, a creamy take on traditional tomato soup. Serve it with a delicious gooey cheesy sandwich, salty croutons, or shaved Parmesan cheese on top. This comforting soup is ideal all year round.

What is Soup?

A soup is a flavorful and nutritious liquid food served at the start of a meal. Soup initially originated from sop, or sup, which referred to the sliced bread that the liquid broth was poured onto. Unstrained vegetable, meat, or fish soups garnished with bread, pasta, or rice were classified as soup. 

Classification of Soup

• Thin soup is one of the most common types of soup. 
• Thick soups have pureed vegetables. 
• Consommé includes meat, herbs, and spices. 
• Chowder is a wholesome soup with a tomato, eggplant, or dairy base thickened with potatoes. 
• Cold soup is a raw vegetable soup. Furthermore, chilled cucumber soup is a favorite.
• Each of these has its own unique and delicious flavor. 

Seasoning and Serving

You can add your personal touch by seasoning your tomato bisque and soup. Basil, thyme, oregano, and garlic are popular herbs and spices that enhance the flavor. Serve with croutons, bread, or crackers for a satisfying meal.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Tomato Bisque and Soup

• Tomato bisque is creamier and silkier than tomato soup. It definitely makes for a hearty and filling meal!
• Dairy is a major component of tomato bisque, while it rarely makes an appearance in tomato soup. If you or someone in your family is lactose intolerant, it's worth keeping this difference in mind.
• Because of the use of dairy, tomato bisque has a richer flavor. Tomato soup is great if you're looking for a light and delicate meal.

Tomato bisque and soup are classic comfort foods that are easy to make and can be enjoyed throughout the year. You can create a satisfying and nutritious meal that everyone will enjoy by choosing the right tomatoes, blending and straining, and adding your personal touch to season and serve.

Whether you try a classic, roasted, or lentil tomato soup recipe, you can't go wrong with this timeless classic.

In conclusion, tomato bisque and soup are both flavorful and highly nutritious dishes that offer a range of health benefits. By incorporating these dishes into your diet, you can enjoy their delicious taste while reaping their nutritional rewards. With the tips and recipes in this article, you can easily prepare and enjoy these dishes at home for a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Try these tasty dishes for a quick weekday meal:

Tomato Soup

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Ingredients

• 4 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons white sugar, or to taste

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Instructions

1. Gather all the ingredients.

2. Combine the tomatoes, slices of onion, a few garlic cloves, and chicken broth in a stockpot over moderate heat. To mix the flavors, bring it to a gentle boil and cook for 20 minutes.

3. Remove it from the heat and pour the mixture into a big bowl or pan after passing it through a blender or food processor.

4. Melt the butter in the now-empty stockpot over medium heat. Make a roux by stirring in the flour and heating it until it reaches a medium brown color.

5. Stir in the remaining tomato mixture after gradually whisking in small amounts to prevent lumps. Add salt and sugar, and season to taste.

6. Serve hot or cold with your desired bread or croutons.

7. Storing tomato soup: Refrigerate your homemade tomato soup in an airtight container. The soup will keep in the refrigerator for 3 – 4 days, or you can freeze it for up to 6 months.

• Tomato Bisque
• Potato Soup

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Toasted Pictures/Shutterstock.com.

The post Tomato Bisque vs. Soup: The Differences You Need to Know appeared first on Moms Who Think.

People frequently offer soup and chowder in restaurants, homes, and other eating establishments. They are two different dishes that vary from one another.

We will explore the differences between chowder vs. soup, their ingredients, and their cultural significance. Additionally, we'll compare their nutritional value and help you decide which one to choose depending on your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Chowder vs. Soup: What Is the Difference?

Regarding chowder and soup, the texture and consistency are the main differences. Chowder is known for its thick, creamy texture. Like a stew, it contains chunks of vegetables, particularly potatoes, meat, or seafood. At the same time, soup is known for being lighter and brothy.

Did you know as people moved to North America, particularly New England, chowder became a staple dish made with local seafood like clams and lobster? You can find regional varieties like Manhattan clam chowder or Cornish fish chowder. Chowder is a beloved comfort food that has been enjoyed for centuries, and it's no wonder considering its rich history and delicious taste.

What Is Soup?

Soup has been a staple dish for thousands of years, with various cuisines and cultures creating unique versions. The origins of soup can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where cooking in large pots over an open flame was common practice.

Farmers would gather ingredients such as vegetables, meat, grains, herbs, and spices from the surrounding areas, like wild thyme or mint. These ingredients were then cooked together in water or broth to create a hearty and nourishing meal for the family. 

Soup gained popularity due to its ability to stretch ingredients further and feed many people simultaneously while using minimal resources. Over time, soup evolved across different cultures, adding new elements to create unique flavors.

What Is Chowder?

A chowder is a lot more than a simple soup. It is a filling bowl of creamy delight that warms the stomach and the palate. Each region adds its own twist to this traditional dish, which is typically cooked with seafood or vegetables and thickened with potatoes or cream. 

How Long Does Chowder Take to Prepare?

Well, that's a good question! The exact answer would depend on the specific recipe and ingredients used to make the chowder. However, most chowders generally take 30 minutes to an hour to prepare.

The time can vary based on factors such as how quickly you can chop vegetables or cook meat, how long the chowder needs to simmer for flavors to meld together, and whether or not any unique steps are required. 

Some homemade chowders may require overnight soaking of beans or slow cooking to achieve optimal flavor and texture. Ultimately, it all depends on your personal preferences and cooking skills – but regardless of the specifics, there's nothing quite like a bowl of warm chowder on a chilly day!

How Long Does Soup Take to Prepare?

It depends on the type of soup you're making. If you're throwing together a simple tomato soup or chicken noodle soup, it could be ready in as little as 30 minutes. However, if you're making a heartier soup like beef stew or chili, it may take a couple of hours for all the flavors to meld together just right. Most homemade soups can be made within an hour or two if all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. So why not give it a shot? A warm bowl of homemade soup on a chilly day is delicious.

Can You Substitute Chowder for Soup?

Depending on your preference, substituting chowder for soup might work in some cases but not others. For example, if you're making a recipe for clam chowder and all you have on hand is vegetable soup, the taste will likely be very different than intended. However, if you want to make a lighter version of a chowder using other ingredients like chicken or beef broth instead of cream-based products, that could serve as an acceptable substitute. Ultimately it comes down to personal preference and what ingredients you have on hand in your pantry.

Nutritional Values Chowder vs. Soup

The table below compares the nutritional values of corn chowder vs. vegetable soup based on a 100g serving.

In Conclusion

• Chowder's consistency makes it perfect for throwing chunks of vegetables, meat, or seafood into. While soup can also contain chunks of food, it isn't quite as common.
• Unsurprisingly, chowder is higher in fat and calories compared to soup. If you're looking to eat healthy, soup is definitely the better option. Some may find chowder more filling, however.
• Soup has a light and thin consistency most of the time; some soups can be on the thicker side, but none are as thick as chowder!

After all, the difference between chowder and soup comes down to one major factor: dairy. Chowders always contain milk or cream, which gives them a thick and creamy consistency. Soups, on the other hand, may or may not include dairy, depending on the recipe.

If you're looking for a hearty and healthy soup that's perfect for vegans, then vegetable chowder is an excellent choice. Filled with colorful vegetables like potatoes, carrots, corn, and onions, this soup is packed with nutrients and flavor.

Chowders are typically chunkier than soups, with larger pieces of vegetables or meat mixed in. Chowders and soups can be made with various ingredients, from seafood to vegetables to meat. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference – whether you prefer a hearty and creamy chowder or a lighter and brothier soup is entirely up to you!

Chowder and Soup Recipes

Cabbage Soup

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Ingredients

6 Large Green Onions
2 Green Peppers
1-2 Cans Diced Tomatoes
1 Bunch Celery
1 Package Lipton Onion Soup Mix
1-2 Cubes of Bouillon (if desired)
1 head cabbage

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Instructions

1. Cut all vegetables into small pieces and cover with water.

2. Bring to a hard boil and boil for 10 minutes. Reduce to simmer and continue cooking until vegetables are tender.

3. Season to taste with salt, pepper, oregano, parsley, etc.

• Tomato Soup Recipe
• Creamy Fish and Clam Chowder Recipe

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Chatham172/Shutterstock.com.

The post Chowder vs. Soup: What’s the Difference? appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Clear soup vs. miso soup — are they the same thing? You can prepare clear soup by simmering ingredients, while you can make miso soup by adding Japanese ingredients to dashi broth. There are some similarities, but the two dishes differ in more ways. This article will go in-depth about their differences, similarities, history, and how to prepare these two types of soup.

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Differences Between Clear Soup and Miso Soup

The most important difference between clear soup and miso soup is that miso soup is thicker, with more flavor. Clear soup has no solid ingredients and is a broth with flavors that can include fish, chicken, or vegetables, whereas miso soup gets its distinct flavor from fermented soybeans.

Let's explore their differences in ingredients, taste, texture, and health benefits in more detail.

Ingredients

The ingredients used in clear soup and miso soup are significantly different. You can make clear soup by simmering its ingredients in water and straining the liquid to make a favorable broth. You can make miso soup from a dashi broth with miso paste, seaweed, green onions, and tofu.

Taste and Texture

There are big flavor and texture differences between clear soup and miso soup. Miso soup is thick and flavorful, whereas clear soup is light and delicate. Clear soup is thin and watery, but miso soup is slightly thick and smooth.

Different Health Benefits

The nutritional profiles and potential health advantages of miso soup and clear soup differ. Miso soup recipes include fermented soybean paste, which helps improve nutrient absorption and provides antioxidants and microorganisms that support gut health and immunity. Clear soup, on the other hand, can provide vitamins and minerals from vegetable broth and protein from meat or fish broth. Still, it might not have the same ability to boost nutrient absorption and digestive and immune health as miso soup.

What is Clear Soup?

Clear soup, often known as consommé, is a  liquid soup with no solid ingredients. Instead, it gets prepared by cooking poultry, meat, or fish with vegetables and herbs to create a tasty, nutritious broth. After that, the soup gets strained to remove any solid ingredients, producing a translucent liquid. Clear soups are excellent light appetizers.

European food, especially French food, is where clear soup comes from. “Consommé” comes from the French word “consumer,” which means “to use up” or “to eat.” This likely originates from the way people used to make broth by using leftover ingredients. For centuries, European cooking has used “clarifying” soup to make a clear liquid. Clear soup came from France in the Middle Ages. It became famous in the 18th and 19th centuries when French cooking advanced.

Making Clear Soup Healthier

Here are some ways to make your clear soup healthier while retaining its delicious flavor.

• Choose lean proteins: Using lean proteins to make your soup can reduce the fat content in your broth. There are many potential health benefits from not eating so much fat, such as lowering the risk of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and multiple sclerosis.
• Use more vegetables: Adding a large variety of vegetables to make your broth not only adds flavor but also increases the nutritional content of your soup. Vegetables contain nutrients like potassium, vitamins A, E, and C, fiber, and folate, which can help maintain healthy blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and protect against infection.
• Reduce sodium: High salt intake could result in health problems such as high blood pressure. To reduce sodium, use low-sodium or homemade broth and avoid using too much salt. Instead, add fresh herbs, spices, or a squeeze of lemon juice to improve the flavor.
• Remove excess fat: After making the soup, let it cool and then skim off any fat seen on the top. This will help cut down on the amount of fat in the soup.
• Use fresh herbs and spices: Fresh herbs and spices offer flavor without adding extra calories. They also have antioxidants that can reduce the risk of cancer, vision loss, and many other chronic conditions.

Changing these things in your soup will greatly enhance your health while still providing a flavorful meal that anyone can enjoy.

What is Miso Soup?

Miso soup is a popular Japanese soup cooked with a dashi stock base from simmering kelp and dried fish flakes. Miso, a paste prepared from fermented soybeans, provides the soup its distinct flavor. This soup is made with tofu, green onions, and seaweed, but you can add other ingredients. Miso soup gets served as a side dish in Japan.

Miso soup has a unique role in Japanese culture. It is an essential part of Japanese food and a symbol of the country's food culture. Miso soup gets served as a side dish, and people like it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner since it is warm and cozy. In Japan, having miso soup for breakfast helps detoxify the body and keep it healthy. In addition, the soup gets served at special events and traditional Japanese tea rituals.

Making Miso Soup Healthier

Here are a few ways to create a healthy and flavorful miso soup.

• Choose low-sodium miso: There can be a lot of sodium in miso paste, leading to health problems like high blood pressure. To cut down on salt, use a low-sodium miso paste or lessen the amount of miso in your soup.
• Include seaweed: Including seaweed in your miso soup has many health benefits and adds flavor to your soup. In addition, seaweed contains nutrients and antioxidants that can support thyroid function, reduce your chances for heart disease and diabetes, and fiber that supports your gut health.
• Reduce added fats: Use extra oils or fats moderately if your miso soup recipe calls for them. When using oils, choose heart-healthy fats like sesame oil or olive oil.
• Use whole grains: Choose healthful grains like brown rice, barley, or quinoa if you want to add grains to your miso soup. These grains are more nutritious and higher in fiber.

By following these suggestions, you can make a healthier miso soup without sacrificing its great flavor or comforting features.

Similarities Between Clear Soup and Miso Soup

Despite their differences in ingredients and origins, clear soup and miso soup have certain things in common. Here are some similarities between the two:

1. Broth-Based: Both soups are broth-based, which means that they are made mainly by boiling ingredients in water to bring out their flavors.
2. Comfort Food: These soups are comfort food in their culture. They are warm and relaxing, you can eat this soup as a light appetizer or a side dish.
3. Versatility: Clear soup and miso soup are versatile recipes that can be changed to fit each person's tastes. You can make clear soup using many proteins, vegetables, and garnishes.
4. Nutritious: Depending on the contents, both soups can be healthy, giving necessary vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Clear soups are often low in calories and fat, but miso soup provides probiotics from fermented miso paste and other nutrients from the various ingredients.

The similarities show that despite their unique tastes and cultural backgrounds, clear soup and miso soup have vital characteristics that make them both popular and delightful dishes worldwide.

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In Summary

• Miso soup gets its distinct flavor from fermented soybeans, while clear soup can be flavored with seafood, vegetables, or meat.
• Clear soup is thin, light, and delicate, while miso soup is thick with an intense flavor.
• Miso soup has a strong set of nutrients that can boost digestive health. Clear soup has a good set of nutrients, but doesn't offer quite the array of benefits that miso soup does.

Easy Vegetable Soup

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 1 to 2 large cans V-8 juice
• 2 lbs. lean hamburger
• 1 can okra, drained
• 1 can white corn, drained
• 2 (32 oz.) cans mixed vegetables or large bag of frozen vegetables
• 2 to 3 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 to 2 cans stewed tomatoes
• 3 Tablespoons chopped cilantro
• Garlic powder to taste
• Ground pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Brown meat, drain. Add V-8 juice and all other ingredients.
2. Simmer at least 30 minutes, longer if possible.
3. Serve with flour tortillas filled with low fat Mozzarella cheese and heated in the microwave until cheese has melted.

In summary, while originating from different culinary traditions, clear soup and miso soup have distinct characteristics that set them apart. However, they share some commonalities, such as being broth-based, versatile, and nutritious. Both soups have rich histories and cultural significance, and their delicious flavors have made them popular across the globe. By understanding their differences and similarities, one can appreciate the unique qualities of each soup and explore ways to make them healthier while still enjoying its comforting nature. Ultimately, both clear soup and miso soup provide a delicious and satisfying experience that you can tailor to your individual preferences and dietary needs.

The post Clear Soup vs. Miso Soup: 3 Key Differences appeared first on Moms Who Think.

You might think of soup or stew when you want a warm, comfortable meal. But are they the same thing? Both meals have a liquid base and include various ingredients, but each has unique features that make them stand apart. In this article, we will discuss the differences between the two popular dishes and learn about the different culinary techniques used to prepare them.

The Main Difference Between Soup and Stew

The main distinctions between soup and stew are their consistency, cooking methods, and ingredient amounts. Soups have a thinner, more liquid texture, but stews have a thicker, heartier feel. In addition, soups have a higher liquid ratio to solid ingredients, resulting in a more broth-based meal, while stews have more meat, vegetables, and sometimes grains.

Soup and stew cooking methods are different as well. You can often cook soup at low heat, allowing the flavors to blend and the ingredients to soften. On the other hand, you can cook stews gently at lower temperatures to concentrate the flavors and keep the ingredients whole and tender.

4 Key Differences Between Soups and Stews

When thinking about how soups and stews are different, remember these important areas:

• Appetizer vs. Entree: Stews are mostly served as entrees whereas soups have a greater variety. They're often served as appetizers, but some heartier soups can also be a main course.
• Served on Its Own: Soups are generally served on their own, but stews are often served over rice or even pasta.
• Heartiness: Stews are normally heartier. They're slow-cooked and contain less liquid than soup.
• Hot or Cold: Stews are almost exclusively prepared hot, but soups are often served hot or cold.

What Is Soup?

With over 250 varieties worldwide, soup is a flavor-filled broth made by cooking meat, poultry, seafood, vegetables, and grains in stock, broth, or milk. You can serve soup cold or hot, depending on the type of soup you make. As a dish that spans numerous culinary traditions and cultures, soup offers many flavors, textures, and styles to suit any dietary needs or preference.

Soup was first made in 20,000 BC when humans discovered mud vessels and clay pots. In 6000 BC, soup became a part of a regular menu. The word “soup” originated from the French term “soupe,” which comes from the Germanic word “sop,” referring to a piece of bread soaked in broth. Today, soups continue to be a beloved dish across the globe, representing the different culinary traditions and influences of countries throughout history.

Making Soup Healthier: Simple Substitutions

Low-Sodium Broth

Low-sodium broth is a healthier choice for soups and contains less salt than regular broth. Reducing sodium content will allow you to manage your salt intake, which can be very important to those with high blood pressure or other health concerns. Buying low-sodium broth or creating a homemade broth can help you maintain a healthier blood pressure level while enjoying delicious, comforting meals.

Choose Lean Proteins

When you choose lean proteins like turkey, chicken, fish, beans, and lentils, you obtain the amino acids you need without eating too much saturated fat. Choosing lean proteins helps people keep their weight in a healthy range, build muscle, and keep their hearts healthy. By adding lean proteins to soup recipes, you can prepare balanced, heart-healthy meals that taste excellent.

Replace Cream with Healthier Alternatives

Replace heavy cream with low-fat milk, yogurt, or pureed vegetables to achieve a creamy texture while being healthy. Using low-fat replacements can help you lose weight while keeping your heart healthy. Experimenting with cream substitutions might also result in new and exciting flavor combinations.

Use Heart-Healthy Fats

If you sauté your meats and vegetables, use olive or avocado oil instead of saturated fats or butter. Changing to these fat alternatives will be very good for your health. These healthy fats can help lower harmful cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease and stroke. In addition, by making one easy change, you can prepare healthier and more nutritious soups without sacrificing taste or quality.

5 Soup-Making Techniques

Different soup preparation techniques differ based on the type of soup and your desired outcome. Here are some standard techniques you can use in preparing soup:

• Slow cooking: Slow cookers are an excellent tool for cooking soups because they allow ingredients to cook at a low temperature for an extended time. Since the long, gentle cooking technique softens the ingredients, this approach is excellent for soups containing harder chunks of meat or dry beans.
• Sweating: Cooking vegetables in a small amount of fat over low heat with the pot covered is the approach used for this technique. Sweating helps the vegetables to release moisture and soften without browning, which is excellent for some soups, such as a clear vegetable broth.
• Sauteing: Before adding the liquid, vegetables and other ingredients like onions, garlic, or spices are frequently sautéed in oil or butter. By sautéing the ingredients, they get caramelized, and the tastes are enhanced, giving the soup more depth.
• Pressure Cooking: A pressure cooker is another excellent piece of equipment for producing soups because it cuts cooking time tremendously. This method is beneficial when making soups containing ingredients that take a long time to cook, such as dried beans or tough chunks of meat.
• Pureeing: Ingredients for smooth, creamy soups are frequently boiled until tender and then puréed in a blender, immersion blender, or food processor. Pureeing results in a velvety texture and excellent consistency.

Using these techniques, you can create various soups with various textures, flavors, and consistencies to suit any taste or preference.

What Is Stew?

People worldwide have been eating stew for centuries because it is flavorful and filling. You can make stew by slowly cooking meat, vegetables, and sometimes grains or beans in a liquid over low heat. The liquid might be water, broth, wine, or a mix. It makes the meat more tender and adds flavor to the dish. You can make soup with many different kinds of food, and each culture has a unique way of making this popular meal.

The origins of stew can get traced back to ancient times when people cooked tough portions of meat with vegetables and grains to make them more flavorful. “Stew” comes from the Old French term estuier, which means “to cook in a pot.” Peasants used to cook stews by putting their ingredients on hand into a pot and cooking them over an open flame.

Over time, stews became fancier, and they got served at banquets and feasts. During the Middle Ages, stews were considered a luxury cuisine and cooked with exotic spices and expensive cuts of meat. However, people worldwide still like stews, which are popular comfort food for many.

Making Stew Healthier: Simple Substitutions

Use Lean Proteins

Instead of fatty portions of meat, try turkey, skinless chicken, or plant-based protein sources. Incorporating these into your dish will deliver essential vitamins and minerals without the excess saturated fat, which could reduce your risk of heart disease.

Use Whole Grains

Use whole grains like quinoa or brown rice instead of refined grains like white rice or pasta. Whole grains have more fiber, vitamins, and minerals that help digestion and overall health.

Use More Vegetables

Add vegetables like kale, zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers to your food to support a strong immune system and overall wellness. Increasing the number of vegetables in your diet improves the amount of critical vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants your body needs.

Use Reduced-Fat Dairy

If your recipe requires cheese or cream, use a reduced-fat or low-fat version of cream and cheese. This substitution can help cut down on calories and saturated fat without sacrificing the flavor or texture of your stew.

5 Stew-Making Techniques

How you make a stew differs slightly from a soup since stews tend to be thicker and have bigger, more substantial chunks of food. Here are a few of the most common ways to make stews:

1. Slow Simmering: Like soups, stews usually take a long time to cook at a low temperature. This slow simmering lets the flavors blend and makes the tougher portions of meat softer.
2. Braising: This is a common way to make stew. First, the meat gets browned over high heat and then is cooked gently in a tiny amount of liquid. This makes the meat softer and lets it soak up the taste of the broth and other ingredients.
3. One-Pot Cooking: Stews are usually made in one pot or a Dutch oven, which lets the heat spread evenly and the flavors blend. This strategy also makes cooking easier and makes cleaning up easier.
4. Slow cooking: A popular way to make stews is with a slow cooker or crockpot. The moderate, even heat lets flavors develop, and the meat gets tender without the risk of drying out or overcooking.
5. Pressure Cooking: A pressure cooker can dramatically cut cooking time while maintaining stews' slow-cooked taste and softness. This method is beneficial when cooking harder portions of meat or foods that usually take a long time to cook.

These stew-making methods allow you to make a wide variety of hearty, flavorful stews that highlight various dishes and cuisines.

Similarities Between Soup and Stew?

Even though soup and stew are different in many aspects, they are also alike in several ways. Both dishes are produced using solid and liquid ingredients, like meats, vegetables, and sometimes grains. This mix of ingredients makes them versatile and easy to change, so you can use them in soups and stews with many different tastes and textures.

Soup and stew are both comfort foods in many parts of the world, which is another thing they have in common. Both recipes have been used for a long time to make people feel warm and cozy. They also get made with inexpensive ingredients.

Slow cooking is typically for making soup and stew because it lets the flavors blend and the ingredients soften. This slow-cooking method offers soups and stews a rich, refined flavor. By allowing the ingredients to boil gently, the dishes get an intense taste that makes them satisfying and delicious.

Soup Recipes

• Creamy Ham and Potato Soup
• Crab and Corn Soup
• Taco Soup

Stew Recipes

Chicken Biscuit Stew

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• Author: Moms Who Think
• Yield: 4 servings

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Ingredients

1 cup julienned carrots
1 cup thinly sliced onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1 inch cubes
1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour
¼ cup water
3 Tablespoons white wine or chicken broth
1 cup (8 ounces) fat free plain yogurt
1 cup fresh or frozen peas
¼ teaspoon each curry powder, salt, pepper, ground cumin, and ginger

BISCUITS:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
4½ teaspoons cold butter
½ cup fat free plain yogurt
1½ teaspoons dried parsley flakes

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Instructions

1. In a large nonstick skillet, sauté the carrots, onion, and garlic in oil until tender.

2. Add chicken; cook and stir for 5 minutes.

3. Combine the flour, water, and wine or broth until smooth; add to the skillet. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Reduce heat; stir in yogurt, peas, and seasonings. Transfer to a shallow 1 1/2 qt. baking dish coated with cooking spray; keep warm.

4. For biscuits, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl. Cut in butter until crumbly. Stir in yogurt and parsley. Drop eight mounds over warm chicken mixture.

5. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 25 35 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown and stew bubbles around the edges.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup stew with 2 biscuits
• Calories: 413
• Sodium: 895mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 37g
• Cholesterol: 68mg

• Meat and Potato Stew
• Italian Ravioli Stew

Final Thoughts

• Soup is enjoyed as both an appetizer and as an entrée, with the portion size varying accordingly. Meanwhile, stew is almost always the main course, although rarely it might be served as a side dish.
• Soup has a much higher liquid-to-solid ratio than stew, making it more of a broth. Some people prefer this, while others love the focus on meat and vegetables in stew.
• Stew can be eaten on its own, but it can also be poured over rice, pasta, or sometimes even bread for extra heartiness. Soup, on the other hand, is rarely poured over anything.

Soup and stew are warm and comforting, although they differ in certain ways. Soup is a thin, broth-based meal with more liquid than solid elements. On the other hand, Stew is a heartier, thicker dinner with more meat, vegetables, and grains. Both have been around for hundreds of years and have changed to incorporate diverse tastes, textures, and styles to fit different diets and tastes.

Simple changes like low-sodium broth, lean proteins, whole grains, vegetables, and reduced-fat dairy can make soup and stew healthy. You can make these recipes by slow cooking, braising, cooking in one pot, cooking under pressure, or pureeing. Even though they are different, soup and stew are comforting and serve many uses.

The post Soup vs. Stew: What’s the Difference? appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Potato soup is a hearty meal in and of itself, rich and creamy with tender potatoes. Served in a bread bowl, this recipe takes it to a whole new level. Bread bowls are extremely popular, and for good reason. Bread is one of the most beloved foods in the world, so of course a bowl made out of it is going to be a hit.

Bread bowls became popularized through Panera Bread for many people. Although Panera Bread has alternated between offering and not offering bread bowls over the years, the consensus is still that it's one of their best options. Being able to create that experience at home is great.

This recipe isn't difficult. You'll only need five ingredients to make this, which is fantastic. Many soup recipes, including potato soup, have way too many ingredients. Nobody wants to stare at a page-long list of things they need to add to their grocery list.

On top of that, each step for this recipe is simple and straightforward. No unnecessary guesswork, no hassle, and little room for error. As long as you follow each step exactly as written, you'll have an amazing dinner to serve your family in no time at all.

Bread Bowl Potato Soup Recipe

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• Author: Ashley Haugen

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Ingredients

Units USM

• 1 14–ounce can reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1 20–ounce package refrigerated diced potatoes with onions
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 8 ounce package shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 purchased bread bowls (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large saucepan bring chicken broth to a boil.

2. Add potatoes; return to boiling. Reduce heat.

3. Simmer, covered, for 10 minutes or until potatoes are very tender.

4. Remove from heat.

5. Cool slightly.

6. Place half of the potato mixture in a food processor bowl or blender container. Leave half in the saucepan.

7. Cover and process or blend until almost smooth, leaving some pieces of potato.

8. Remove and add to the remaining potato mixture in the saucepan.

9. Stir in milk, heat through. Season with salt and ground black pepper.

10. Divide soup evenly between four bread bowls.

11. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top of each bowl while soup is still hot. Serve immediately.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©MomsWhoThink / MomsWhoThink.

The post Bread Bowl Potato Soup Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Need a great chili recipe to serve for the big game? This is a great recipe to turn to. Some chili recipes are unnecessarily complicated or take forever to cook. Not this one! We've tried to keep it as simple as possible, without compromising ingredients.

You'll need to cook the meat in the skillet for a little while before adding it to the slow cooker. After this step, however, all of the cooking will be handled by the slow cooker. This chili recipe will take four hours to cook; we've directed you to use the high setting for this meal.

That means that you can cook this chili the morning of the game, and have it ready by the time the game starts. Or, put everything together a couple of hours in advance. Serve some appetizers while the chili finishes cooking.

Either way, this is one of the easiest ways to put together a great dish for your guests. There's no need to order a pizza with a recipe like this! Plus, this chili recipe is on the milder side, so even those with sensitive mouths should enjoy it. Now, on to the recipe!

Game Day Chili

Ingredients:

3¼ pound ground chuck
1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
3 (14½ ounce) cans diced tomatoes with garlic and onion, undrained
3 (10¾ ounce) cans tomato soup
1 (16 ounce) can light red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
5 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika

Toppings:
Sour cream
Shredded Cheddar cheese
Chopped green onions
Sliced black olives
Corn chips

Directions:

1. Cook ground chuck in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat 12 to 14 minutes or until meat crumbles and is no longer pink; drain.

2. Place meat in a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker; stir in ½ cup water, green bell peppers, and next 7 ingredients. Cover and cook on high 4 hours. Serve with desired toppings.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©margouillat photo/Shutterstock.com.

The post You Need to Try This Easy Game Day Chili Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

This is definitely a dip recipe that's going to attract some attention! There are so many dip recipes out there, but not all of them deserve praise like this one does. Simple, easy, and delicious, this recipe is one you'll want to keep on hand for years to come.

Dip is a great dish to turn to for an appetizer for any event, whether that be a party, a sports watch event, or something else entirely. Guests can snack on chips and dip at their leisure while chatting with others or watching the featured program.

Four ingredients are all you'll need for this recipe. Tamales, chili without beans, shredded cheddar cheese, and tortilla chips for dipping make a complete package that guests will be wanting the recipe for. It only takes three simple steps to prepare this dip.

Since this dip only needs to cook for 25 minutes, it can easily be prepared day-of in advance of your event. This ensures it is as fresh as possible. Serve it either warm or cool, depending on your preference. Make sure to buy enough chips to go around!

Hot Tamale Chili Dip

Ingredients:

1 (15 ounce) can tamales
2 (15 ounce) cans chili, without beans
1 (8 ounce) package shredded cheddar cheese
Corn tortilla chips for dipping

Directions:

1. Mash tamales with a fork, mix with chili, and place in a 9 inch glass pie plate.

2. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over tamale-chili mixture.

3. Bake in 350F oven for about 25 minutes until bubbly.

The post You Need to Try This Hot Tamale Chili Dip Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

This isn't exactly a “pie” in the way you might usually think. There's no pie crust used here. Instead, delicious chili is poured on top of Frito chips, and then covered with cheese and any other toppings you desire. It's a pie in the sense that there are crunchy bits and softer bits.

You'll only need three ingredients for this recipe. Beyond that, any ingredients are optional toppings for your dish. This recipe is best made as an appetizer, but it can also make for a quick and simple lunch. If you'll be serving it for dinner, add some tacos or enchiladas to the meal to make it more filling.

In terms of preparation, this is one of the easiest recipes you'll ever find. There are three steps you'll need to complete. Each of them are incredibly easy. This recipe gets even easier if you already have prepared chili on hand, such as leftover chili.

If not, you'll need to acquire some prepared chili through some means. Try to find the easiest way possible! This recipe can even be a way to add some flair to fast food chili, or to leftovers from a restaurant you went to. Regardless of how you source your chili, this recipe is sure to delight.

Frito Pie Recipe

Ingredients:

4 cups corn chips (Fritos Scoops work best)
4 cups prepared chili
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
8 teaspoons chopped onions (optional)

Directions:

1. Heat chili until warm in a medium saucepan.

2. Place corn chips in a shallow bowl, pour chili on top.

3. Top with the cheese, and onions if desired. Serves 4.

The post Try This Amazing and Easy Frito Pie Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Taco soup is an excellent way to change up taco night! This particular recipe uses turkey meat, for less calories and fat. Taco seasoning mix and ranch seasoning mix are used to add lots of flavor. If using ranch seasoning in a taco recipe is new to you, you may very well never go back to your old seasoning combo after trying it!

Keep in mind that you'll need to cook the turkey before putting it in the slow cooker. This will take less than ten minutes, so it doesn't add much on to the total prep time. Once all of the ingredients are added to the slow cooker, it will need to cook on low for four to five hours.

This is a great recipe to throw in the slow cooker on a weekend, when you want to enjoy time with family instead of spending time in the kitchen. While this soup cooks, relax and have fun with your kids. You won't have forever to make memories with them, so take advantage of every opportunity you have!

For other great slow cooker soup recipes, take a look at our other offerings. Soup is an important part of fall and winter, so having some good recipes is a great idea. Soup doesn't need to have a lot of effort put into it to be good, as we hope this recipe proves!

Taco Soup

Ingredients:

1 lb ground turkey
32 oz carton chicken broth
2 (14.5 oz) cans petite diced tomatoes with green chiles
1 (15.8 oz) can Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15.25 oz) can yellow hominy, drained
1 (15.25 oz) can white hominy, drained
1 (1.25 oz) pkg. taco seasoning mix
1 (1 oz) pkg ranch salad dressing mix

Toppings:

Shredded cheddar cheese
Sour cream, optional
Tortilla chips, optional

Directions:

1. In a large non-stick skillet cook turkey until no longer pink, 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain. Add to slow cooker.

2. Add remaining ingredients, except toppings to slow cooker; combine. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours.

3. To serve, top with shredded cheese and sour cream (if desired), and serve with tortilla chips.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Kasparas P/Shutterstock.com.

The post Your Family Will Love This Taco Soup Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Shrimp creole is one of the most popular dishes out there. Shrimp is easily accessible for most Americans at any time of the year, whether fresh or frozen. This shrimp creole soup recipe is a must-try. It's made in the slow cooker, making it an easy dish to make.

You'll want to buy frozen shrimp that is pre-cooked. If you aren't able to find this or you choose to buy fresh shrimp instead, you'll need to cook it in advance. The shrimp won't be cooking in the slow cooker itself, so this step is important. You'll be adding the shrimp in to the slow cooker at the end, so keep the shrimp in the freezer until then.

This soup takes eight to ten hours on low or three to four hours on high. If you want a recipe that can cook while you're away at work, this is it. The various ingredients in this recipe provide a lot of nutrition without too much fat. It's an excellent choice for any family looking to eat healthier.

When buying your shrimp, try to buy shrimp that is sustainably sourced. Many fisheries do not engage in environmentally-friendly practices, putting wild fish species and the stability of our waters at risk. It can be difficult at times to find the best shrimp you can, but you'll often be able to find a good brand after a little searching. Be wary of farm-raised shrimp, as these shrimp are not always raised in the cleanest of conditions.

Slow Cooker Shrimp Creole Soup

Ingredients:

1½ cups diced celery
1¼ cup chopped onions
¾ cup chopped green bell pepper
1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (28 ounce) can whole tomatoes
2 (14.5 ounce) cans chicken broth
2-3 garlic cloves
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
8 -16 drops Tabasco sauce
¼ cup red wine vinegar
¼ cup red wine (optional)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 pound frozen cooked shrimp, tails removed

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients EXCEPT shrimp in greased 5-6 quart slow cooker.

2. Cook on low 8 to 10 hours (or high 3 to 4 hours).

3. Increase heat to high and add cooked shrimp 5 minutes before serving.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©iStock.com/ogeday çelik.

The post This is an Amazing Slow Cooker Shrimp Creole Soup Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

You want to have a Mexican night this week, but you're not into the idea of having tacos or enchiladas again. Those are great, but perhaps you've had them a lot over the past few months and you just want something different. Or, maybe you want a new Mexican recipe to impress someone. Either way, you'll enjoy this one.

This Mexican corn and bean soup is sure to please anyone who tries it. Many slow cooker recipes require you to take certain steps to prep the ingredients before putting them in the slow cooker. Whether you need to brown the meat or cook the veggies in oil, there's often something extra you need to do.

Not with this recipe! With this soup, throw all of the ingredients except for the salt and pepper into the slow cooker. Turn it on high and cook for three to four hours. When it's done, season to your liking with salt and pepper. Serve it with tortilla chips, and you're good to go!

You don't need to buy a lot of ingredients for this recipe, either. Many cooks have chili powder, ground cumin, and tortilla chips on hand already. The other ingredients are easy to come by, and many of them are affordable. Make sure to bookmark this recipe so you can always come back to it!

Mexican Corn and Bean Soup

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• Author: Ashley Haugen

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Ingredients

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• 2 1/2 cups tomato juice
• 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups corn
• 2 cups canned kidney beans
• 3/4 cup finely chopped large onion
• 3/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper
• Tortilla chips (optional)

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Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients except salt and pepper in slow cooker.

2. Cover and cook on high 3-4 hours. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

3. Serve with tortilla chips if desired.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Elena.Katkova/Shutterstock.com.

The post Your Family Will Love This Mexican Corn and Bean Soup Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

Loaded baked potatoes are a favorite for many! They combine many great flavors to create a dish that is sure to please anyone in a crowd. Whoever came up with the idea to turn it into a soup is nothing short of a genius! This particular recipe is an easy way to enjoy loaded baked potato soup whenever you wish.

You'll need to do some cooking in the skillet first, but neither of those steps are complicated or too time-consuming. Then, you'll transfer the ingredients into the slow cooker for the bulk of the cooking process. This soup will take four to six hours on low to cook. It may not be a “go to work and leave it” type of recipe, but it's certainly one you can make on a weekend while you spend time with family.

At the end, you'll have to use the microwave for the bacon. Make sure you buy bacon that is microwaveable, as not all types of bacon can easily be cooked in the microwave. If you want to reduce the fat content of this soup, opt for turkey bacon instead of pork bacon.

We hope you enjoy this loaded baked potato soup recipe! We have plenty of other great soup recipes available, so be sure to check them all out before you leave. With our help, you'll never be left without a great soup recipe again!

Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Ingredients:

8 ounces bacon (about 8 slices), chopped
1 onion, minced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1½ teaspoons minced fresh thyme or ½ teaspoon dried
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
3 pounds russet potatoes (about 6 medium), peeled and cut into ½-inch pieces
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (about 8 ounces), plus extra for serving
½ cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper
3 scallions, sliced thin

Directions:

1. Cook bacon in 12-inch skillet over medium heat until crisp, 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer bacon to paper towel-lined plate and refrigerate until serving. Pour off all but 2 tablespoons bacon fat left in skillet.

2. Add onion, garlic, and thyme to fat in skillet and cook over medium-high heat until onion is softened and lightly browned, 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in 1 cup broth, scraping up any browned bits; transfer to slow cooker.

3. Stir remaining 3 cups broth and potatoes into slow cooker. Cover and cook until potatoes are tender, 4 to 6 hours on low.

4. Transfer 2 cups cooked potatoes to bowl and mash smooth with potato masher. Stir cheddar into soup until evenly melted, then stir in mashed potatoes and cream. Let soup sit until heated through, about 5 minutes.

5. Microwave bacon on paper towel-lined plate until hot and crisp, about 30 seconds. Season soup with salt and pepper to taste and serve with scallions, crisp bacon, and additional cheddar.

You might also like:

Broccoli Cheese Soup

Easy Potato Soup Recipe

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Brent Hofacker/Shutterstock.com.

The post Try This Fantastic Slow Cooker Loaded Baked Potato Soup Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

This slow cooker wonder produces flavorful, firm meatballs in a delicious soup that works great for a chilly night’s dinner. If you've never had meatball soup before, you're in for a real treat. Some soup recipes require frequent attention; once these ingredients land in the crock pot, you can just let them cook.

There's a little work that you'll need to do before bringing out the slow cooker, but we use a microwave in this recipe to speed things along. Using a microwave cuts down on the cook time significantly, while not compromising the quality. The majority of the cooking will still take place in the crock pot.

This soup will need to cook for about four to six hours on low. Once that is done, the kale and orzo are added and the whole soup is cooked for another 20 to 30 minutes. Make sure someone will be home to take care of this soup when it's ready, as this doesn't need to cook long enough to cover a full workday.

This is a recipe you'll definitely want to keep on hand for winter nights. Whether you're craving soup specifically or you just want something warm and cozy, this recipe is the right choice. It's also a great way to teach your children about a slow cooker, and why it's such a useful tool in the kitchen!

Italian Meatball Soup

Ingredients:

2 slices high-quality white sandwich bread, torn into quarters
½ cup whole milk
1 pound meatloaf mix
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
1 large egg yolk
6 garlic cloves, minced
1½ teaspoons minced fresh oregano or ½ teaspoon dried
Salt and pepper
1 onion, minced
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for serving
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
8 ounces kale, stemmed and leaves sliced ¼ inch thick
6 ounces orzo (about 1 cup)

Directions:

1. Mash bread and milk into paste in large bowl using fork. Mix in meatloaf mix, Parmesan, parsley, egg yolk, 3 garlic cloves, oregano, ¾ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper using hands. Pinch off and roll mixture into tablespoon-size meatballs (30 to 35 meatballs total).

2. Microwave meatballs on large plate until fat renders and meatballs are firm, 3 to 5 minutes. Pour off fat and transfer meatballs to slow cooker.

3. Microwave onion, remaining 3 garlic cloves, oil, and red pepper flakes in bowl, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes; transfer to slow cooker.

4. Add broth to slow cooker. Cover and cook until meatballs are tender, 4 to 6 hours on low.

5. Let soup settle for 5 minutes, then remove fat from surface using large spoon. Stir in kale and orzo, cover, and cook on high until kale and orzo are tender, about 20 to 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve with additional Parmesan and olive oil.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Brent Hofacker/Shutterstock.com.

The post Try This Easy and Delicious Italian Meatball Soup Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

The combination of ground meats and fresh vegetables, along with rice and sweet brown sugar, makes this chili recipe a very unique one. Thousands of variations of chili have popped up over the years, with many claiming to be worthy of an award. Many different types of meat are used in chili.

Ground beef is a common one, but chicken, pork, and even venison can be used. This particular recipe uses both beef and turkey, for a mix of flavors. Turkey meat is well-liked because it's low in calories and fat, but has a good amount of protein. It's also fairly easy to come by.

Don't let the long ingredients list turn you away from this recipe. Every single ingredient was carefully chosen to fit this recipe. They all blend together to make a truly delicious dish that your family will be asking for again and again. This is one of those recipes you'll turn to when you need something hearty and tasty that's also easy to make.

For more wonderful chili recipes just like this one here, check out the other chili recipes we have. We have traditional chili recipes, as well as some that are very unique. Whether you're a chili novice or a seasoned pro, we've got a recipe for you. Take a look through them all and pick your favorites!

Turkey Chili

Ingredients:

1 pound ground turkey
½ pound ground beef
30 oz. tomato sauce
24 oz. tomato-vegetable juice
½ cup chopped onion
½ cup chopped celery
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 cup chopped green pepper
1 cup chopped mushrooms
1 small jalapeno pepper chopped (optional)
14 oz. stewed tomatoes
½ cup uncooked wild rice
⅔ cup brown sugar
14 oz. chili beans
1 oz. chili seasoning mix

Directions:

1. Brown ground turkey and ground beef. Drain well.

2. Place all other ingredients in a slow cooker and add the meat.

3. Cook on low for 6 to 9 hours. Serve with crackers or cornbread.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Magrig/Shutterstock.com.

The post Check Out This Awesome Turkey Chili Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

This fiber-filled chili is a savory dish for that's easy to throw together on any workday morning so you can come home the delicious smell of dinner being done. There are so many different chili recipes out there that it can be difficult to sort the bad from the good. Some chili recipes try to be unique, while ones like this one keep it classic.

There's only one step for this chili recipe: put all the ingredients in the crock pot and cook! You could consider browning the ground beef to be a second step, but that can be done in advance. Brown the ground beef the night before so you can quickly throw everything in the crock pot day-of.

With only seven ingredients, it's easy to get what you need for this recipe. Some chili recipes have well over a dozen ingredients. There's a time and a place for those recipes, but when you want something easy keeping the ingredients list simple is key. Most of the ingredients in this recipe are beans, so you won't need to go all around the grocery store for everything!

If you enjoy this chili recipe, be sure to check out our other great chili recipes. We have plenty of easy ones just like this one, as well as some more complex ones for those looking to flex their chili-making arm. Regardless of what you want out of your chili, we've got a recipe for you!

Four Bean Chili

Ingredients:

1-2 pounds browned ground beef
2 cans chili hot beans
2 cans dark red kidney beans, drained
2 cans pinto beans, drained
2 cans kidney beans, drained
2 cans Rotel tomatoes
1 package chili seasoning

Directions:

1. Put all ingredients in Crock Pot and cook on low all day (about 10 hours).

The post Try This Amazing Four Bean Chili Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.

This beefy chili is delicious and very filling for those cold wintry days. Chili con carne is essentially just “chili with meat”. Since most chili recipes have some sort of meat included, chili con carne is akin to what many people think of when they hear “chili”. Of course, many vegetarian varieties of chili do exist, which is why the distinction is important.

This particular chili con carne recipe uses ground beef. Ground beef is arguably the most common meat used in chili recipes. It just works so well when paired with classic chili ingredients. Chicken and pork are other popular choices; we even have a recipe for venison chili!

You'll need four pounds of ground beef for this recipe, so make sure to plan accordingly when thinking about this week's grocery budget! You'll probably already have a lot of these spices on hand, so don't let the lengthy ingredients list intimidate you. The best chili recipes make great use of each of the ingredients they require, so it's important to buy exactly what the recipe calls for.

There are only two steps to prep this chili recipe, since it uses the crock pot for cooking. You'll need to heat up the shortening and ground beef prior to throwing it in the crock pot, so make sure to set aside enough prep time to do that. Once all of the ingredients have been thrown together into the crock pot, it will need to cook on low for eight to ten hours or on high for four to five.

Crock Pot Chili Con Carne

Ingredients:

4 pounds ground beef
3 tablespoons shortening
2 cups chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, crushed
4 tablespoons chili powder
3 beef bouillon cubes, crushed
1½ teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ cup beef stock
1- 28 oz. can diced tomatoes, undrained
1- 6 oz. can tomato paste
4- 16 oz. cans red kidney beans

Directions:

1. Heat shortening in skillet and brown beef, discard fat. Combine all ingredients in crock pot.

2. Cover and cook on low 8-10 hours; high 4-5 hours.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©stockcreations/Shutterstock.com.

The post You Need to Try This Crock Pot Chili Con Carne Recipe appeared first on Moms Who Think.