When a cozy evening rolls in and the chill in the air beckons for something warm, I often find myself reaching for a pot and embracing the comforting art of soup-making. That’s how I came to discover my go-to ABC Soup—a delightful blend of hearty pork, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices that paints a picture of homestyle goodness in every bowl.
One brisk fall day, after a thrilling trip to the farmer’s market, I was inspired to create a dish that could bring warmth to my family while making use of the fresh produce I had gathered. Imagine the sizzle of pork shoulder browning against the melody of boiling water, enveloping the kitchen in a fragrant embrace. With each ingredient simply tossed into the pot, it’s an effortless process that yields a result so satisfying, you might just forget about fast food forever!
This ABC Soup isn’t just about filling your belly; it’s about heart and soul in every spoonful. Perfect for those family gatherings or a quiet night in, it’s sure to impress with its depth of flavor and wholesome appeal. Ready to dive into a bowl of comforting warmth? Let’s get cooking!
Why Will You Love This ABC Soup?
Comforting and satisfying, this ABC Soup warms your soul with every spoonful. Hearty ingredients like pork shoulder and fresh veggies make it a filling meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy preparation ensures you’ll have more time to cozy up with loved ones instead of slaving over the stove. Versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables, this recipe invites creativity while still being simple. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase seasonal produce you might pick up at your local farmers’ market. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be saying goodbye to ordinary meals and hello to cozy, homemade happiness!
ABC Soup Ingredients
• Get ready for a delightful blend!
For the Soup
- Pork shoulder – adds rich flavor and tenderness to your ABC Soup.
- Tomatoes – contribute a touch of acidity and sweetness, balancing the heartiness.
- Carrot – brings natural sweetness and beautiful color to the dish.
- Corn – adds a juicy crunch and a hint of summer sweetness.
- Onion – enhances the base of the soup with its savory aroma.
- Yellow potatoes or Yukon gold – provide a creamy texture and help thicken the soup.
- Water – serves as the base, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Chicken bouillon powder – infuses a rich, comforting depth to your ABC Soup.
- Salt – a key seasoning to enhance all the wonderful flavors; adjust to taste.
- Green onion – a fresh garnish to brighten the dish and add a pop of color!
How to Make ABC Soup
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Boil water: Bring a large pot filled halfway with water to a boil on medium-high heat. Add the chopped pork and let it boil for 3-5 minutes until the scum surfaces, which helps to ensure a clear broth.
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Discard impurities: Carefully discard the cloudy water and rinse both the meat and pot. This step removes any impurities for a cleaner flavor.
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Combine ingredients: Add carrots, tomatoes, potatoes, corn, onions, and 10 cups of water back to the pot. Stir gently to combine all the hearty ingredients, leaving room for magic to happen!
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Stovetop method: If cooking on the stovetop, cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low-medium and let it simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours. Take time to occasionally skim off any scum that rises to the surface.
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Pressure cooker way: If using a pressure cooker, securely seal the lid and valve. Cook on high pressure for 45 minutes. Let the pressure naturally release for 20-30 minutes, or if you’re in a hurry, do a quick release.
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Finalize the soup: Skim the soup to remove any oil or scum that may have surfaced during cooking. Season with chicken bouillon powder and salt, adjusting to your taste.
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Serve it up: Garnish each bowl of ABC Soup with finely chopped green onions for a splash of color and flavor. Enjoy the warmth and comfort with every spoonful!
Optional: Serve with crusty bread for a delightful accompaniment!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for ABC Soup
Room Temperature: If you’ve made a large batch of ABC Soup, it can sit out for up to 2 hours before it should be refrigerated.
Fridge: Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ABC Soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When reheating frozen ABC Soup, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
What to Serve with ABC Soup?
When you’re ready to savor the warmth of this delightful soup, consider pairing it with complementary sides that enhance the experience.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, it adds a satisfying crunch alongside the rich flavors of the soup.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad offers a refreshing contrast, balancing the hearty comfort of the ABC Soup.
- Garlic Breadsticks: With their aromatic flavor, these breadsticks provide a delightful twist that encourages endless bites.
- Savory Rice: Fluffy, herb-infused rice soaks up the delicious broth, adding a comforting texture to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies bring out natural sweetness while enhancing the overall nutritious profile of your dinner.
- Fruit Parfait: End on a refreshing note with light yogurt and fresh fruit—a sweet complement after the warm soup.
Each combination enhances the comforting themes of the soup, inviting hearts and appetites alike to the dinner table!
Make Ahead Options
These ABC Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on hectic weeknights! You can chop the vegetables and dice the pork shoulder up to 24 hours in advance. Just refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent browning. Additionally, you can completely cook the soup and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to enjoy, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot, adding a splash of water if needed to restore consistency. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade ABC Soup ready with minimal effort, keeping its comforting flavor intact!
ABC Soup Variations
Feel free to play with flavors and ingredients to create your own unique version of this comforting ABC Soup!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute chicken bouillon with vegetable broth for a lighter, dairy-free version that still boasts incredible flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to spice things up. This will give your ABC Soup a delightful heat that warms you from the inside out!
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Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a refreshing aroma and extra depth of flavor.
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Vegetarian: Replace the pork with hearty mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of water. You’ll still get that rich texture without any meat!
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Sweet Potato Twist: Substitute yellow potatoes with sweet potatoes for a hint of natural sweetness and a lovely color contrast in your soup.
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Frozen Veggies: In a pinch? Use frozen mixed vegetables instead of fresh for convenience. Just add them during the last 15 minutes of cooking!
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Noodle Delight: Stir in some cooked noodles or rice during the last few minutes to transform your ABC Soup into a more filling meal that will satisfy every appetite.
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze in fresh lemon or lime juice just before serving to brighten the flavors and add a refreshing zing that complements the hearty ingredients beautifully.
Expert Tips for ABC Soup
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Quality Meat: Use fresh pork shoulder for the best flavor. Check for marbling; it enhances tenderness and richness in your ABC Soup.
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Skim Frequently: Don’t skip the skimming process while cooking. Regularly removing scum ensures a clear and clean broth, elevating the final taste.
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Season Gradually: Add chicken bouillon powder and salt gradually, tasting as you go. This helps balance the flavors and prevents over-seasoning your ABC Soup.
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to mix in seasonal veggies, but remember not to overcrowd the pot. A few key additions work best to maintain the soup’s essence.
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Allow for Resting: Let your soup sit for a few minutes after cooking. This resting period helps the flavors meld together beautifully in your ABC Soup.
ABC Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of pork should I use for ABC Soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend using fresh pork shoulder. Look for marbling, as it enhances richness and succulence, making your soup all the more satisfying.
How do I store leftover ABC Soup?
Very! You can store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re reheating it, gently warm it on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if it appears thickened.
Can I freeze ABC Soup?
Yes! For longer storage, pour the cooled ABC Soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (I often use containers for less mess) and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm it on medium heat on the stovetop while stirring occasionally until heated through.
What should I do if my soup is too salty?
If the soup turns out too salty, don’t fret! You can remedy this by adding extra water or low-sodium broth to dilute the saltiness. If you want to get more creative, add a peeled potato while cooking and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes; the potato helps absorb some of the excess salt.
Can I add other vegetables to the ABC Soup?
Absolutely! The more, the merrier! You can customize this soup with your favorite seasonal vegetables, like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Just be cautious not to overcrowd the pot; adding a couple of key ingredients enhances the flavor without overwhelming it.
Is this recipe suitable for pets?
Generally, it’s best not to share human food with pets, as ingredients like onion and certain spices can be harmful to them. If you’re looking for a homemade treat for your furry friends, consider setting aside some plain cooked pork and vegetables—hold the seasonings!
Savor the Comfort: Easy ABC Soup Packed with Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil water: Bring a large pot filled halfway with water to a boil on medium-high heat. Add the chopped pork and let it boil for 3-5 minutes until the scum surfaces.
- Discard impurities: Carefully discard the cloudy water and rinse both the meat and pot.
- Combine ingredients: Add carrots, tomatoes, potatoes, corn, onions, and 10 cups of water back to the pot. Stir gently to combine.
- Stovetop method: Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours.
- Pressure cooker way: Securely seal the lid and valve. Cook on high pressure for 45 minutes.
- Finalize the soup: Skim the soup to remove any oil or scum that may have surfaced during cooking. Season with chicken bouillon powder and salt.
- Serve it up: Garnish with finely chopped green onions for added flavor.