As the year rushes towards its close, our schedules seem to grow busier by the day. With work, family, and various commitments occupying our time, dinner often becomes a rushed affair. But what if you could enjoy a healthy, homemade soup for dinner without the stress of last-minute preparations? Enter the soup starter kit – your secret to a quick, easy, and delicious meal.
Soup starter kits are a meal prepper’s dream come true. They’re a genius way to save time and make weeknight dinners a breeze. With some upfront preparation, you can have the ingredients for a hearty soup ready to go whenever you need them. Here’s how to create your very own soup starter kits:
Materials You’ll Need
- Quart-sized freezer bags
- Labels
- Permanent marker
Ingredients for Your Soup Starter Kit
For the soup base, you’ll want a combination of vegetables. Here’s a classic trio:
- Carrots
- Onion
- Celery
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some optional “extra” veggies:
- Bell peppers
- Summer squash
- Zucchini
- Sweet potato
- Corn
Preparing Your Soup Starter Kit
- Chop the Veggies: Begin by chopping all the vegetables. For optimal results, blanch them to retain their freshness. To do this, simply drop them into boiling water for 4-5 minutes, then transfer them to ice water to cool quickly. Once they are cool and dry, place them in a quart-sized freezer bag. Be sure to remove all the air before sealing the bag.
- Label Your Bag: Use a permanent marker to label the bag with its contents and the date. This step is essential for staying organized and knowing what’s in each bag.
Preparing Your Soup
When it’s time to cook, simply grab one of your soup starter kits from the freezer, and you’re well on your way to a satisfying meal. Here’s how to complete your soup:
- Protein: Add 1 pound (500g) of your choice of protein – turkey, beef, chicken, or a plant-based option like canned beans or tofu.
- Tomatoes: Incorporate a large can of chopped tomatoes.
- Broth: Pour in 1 quart (950ml) of your preferred broth.
- Seasonings: Season your soup with 1-2 teaspoons of your favorite spices and seasonings. Thyme, marjoram, bay leaves, or any spices you love will do the trick.
Once you’ve combined all the ingredients in your slow cooker or soup pot, let them simmer on low for 4-6 hours. The result? A delicious, homemade soup that’s ready when you are.
Enjoy the Convenience
Soup starter kits are the ultimate time-saver when it comes to weeknight dinners. They allow you to enjoy the flavors of a homemade meal without the stress of last-minute cooking. Plus, you can customize your kits to suit your family’s preferences and dietary needs. So, the next time you’re short on time but craving a hearty, nutritious meal, remember your trusty soup starter kit waiting in the freezer – a simple yet ingenious solution for busy nights.
Over time you’ll come up with your favorite variations. You really can’t go wrong!
Committed to your success,
Keith, Michelle & More Team