When we’re feeling under the weather, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to lift our spirits and soothe our souls. But it’s not just about the taste – many soups have potent healing properties that can help alleviate symptoms and even prevent illnesses. In this article, we’ll explore 18 soothing healing soup recipes that are sure to become your new go-to remedies for when you’re feeling unwell.
From classic chicken noodle soup with a twist of ginger and turmeric, to hearty lentil and vegetable soups packed with antioxidants, these recipes are designed to nourish your body and soul. Whether you’re looking to boost your immune system, detox from a long period of illness, or simply need a comforting meal to lift your mood, we’ve got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each recipe in detail, exploring its unique healing properties, ingredients, and cooking methods. So grab a spoon and let’s get cozy – it’s time to get souped up!
Chicken and Ginger Healing Soup
A soothing and nourishing soup that combines the benefits of chicken, ginger, and vegetables to help ease cold and flu symptoms. This comforting recipe is perfect for when you need a little pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, ginger, chicken broth, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric and Coconut Immune-Boosting Soup
This nourishing soup combines the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric with the creamy richness of coconut milk, creating a delicious and immunity-supportive meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes, turmeric, and coconut milk. Stir well to combine.
3. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Lentil and Vegetable Detox Soup
Start your day with a nutritious and flavorful soup that’s packed with fiber-rich lentils and an array of vegetables, perfect for a detoxifying boost. This simple recipe is quick to prepare and simmered to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
2. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and thyme to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the vegetables are soft.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Bone Broth with Garlic and Herbs
A classic comfort food, this rich and flavorful bone broth is elevated by the addition of garlic and herbs. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a base for soups and sauces.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef bones (preferably marrow bones)
– 4 cups water
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place bones on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes, or until browned.
3. In a large pot, combine roasted bones, water, garlic, parsley, thyme, and bay leaf.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours, or overnight.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Strain broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot or container.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Miso Soup with Shiitake and Wakame
This comforting Japanese soup combines rich miso paste with earthy shiitake mushrooms and tender wakame seaweed, making for a nourishing and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 1 tablespoon white miso paste
– 1/4 cup sliced shiitake mushrooms
– 1/4 cup diced wakame seaweed
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: tofu, scallions, or soba noodles for added protein and texture
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine dashi broth and miso paste. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add sliced shiitake mushrooms and diced wakame seaweed. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 5-7 minutes, or until mushrooms are tender.
4. Stir in grated ginger. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with optional ingredients if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Golden Beet and Carrot Healing Soup
This nourishing soup is a perfect remedy for a cold winter’s day. The sweetness of the carrots and golden beets combines with the savory flavor of chicken broth to create a comforting and rejuvenating meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large golden beets, peeled and chopped
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped golden beets and carrots, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Thai Lemongrass and Chicken Soup
This aromatic and spicy soup is a flavorful take on traditional Thai cooking. The combination of tender chicken, lemongrass, and chilies creates a harmonious balance of heat and freshness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 kaffir lime leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, lemongrass, lime leaves, garlic, ginger, curry paste, and broth.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in coconut milk and cumin.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Cauliflower Soup
Roasted Garlic and Cauliflower Soup Recipe
Transform ordinary cauliflower into a rich and creamy soup by roasting it with garlic and blending with aromatic spices. This comforting recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 3-4 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion in the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil until translucent.
4. Add roasted garlic to the pot and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add vegetable broth, roasted cauliflower, and heavy cream (if using). Blend until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 35-40 minutes
Moroccan Lentil and Chickpea Soup
Moroccan Lentil and Chickpea Soup Recipe
This hearty soup is a staple of Moroccan cuisine, packed with nutritious lentils, chickpeas, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in the lentils, chickpeas, broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Kale and White Bean Soup with Lemon
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy beans, nutritious kale, and bright citrus flavor. Enjoy as a comforting meal or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chopped curly kale, stems removed and discarded
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and chopped kale.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
6. Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curried Sweet Potato and Red Lentil Soup
This creamy and aromatic soup combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of red lentils, all wrapped up in a fragrant curry spice blend. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the sweet potatoes, lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Greek Avgolemono (Lemon-Egg) Soup
Avgolemono, a traditional Greek soup, is a comforting and flavorful blend of chicken broth, rice, and citrus. This creamy lemon-egg soup is a staple of Greek cuisine, perfect for cold winter days or any time you need a warm and soothing meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 large egg yolks
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine chicken broth and cooked rice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Gradually stir in lemon juice until well combined.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks until smooth. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring 1/4 cup of the warm soup mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
4. Once tempered, pour the egg yolk mixture back into the saucepan and stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and cinnamon (if using).
6. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika and a squeeze of lemon, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Pho with Healing Spices
Pho, a popular Vietnamese noodle soup, is elevated by the addition of healing spices that promote digestion and reduce inflammation. This recipe combines the rich flavors of beef broth, aromatic spices, and nourishing herbs to create a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef bones (preferably oxtail or beef neck bones)
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 8 cups beef broth
– 1 pound rice noodles
– Fresh herbs (such as basil, mint, and cilantro)
– Lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the beef bones for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, combine roasted bones, fish sauce, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, star anise, cinnamon stick, and cayenne pepper.
4. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
6. Assemble Pho by placing noodles into bowls, then adding hot broth and garnishing with fresh herbs and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including roasting time)
Cabbage and Ginger Detox Soup
This refreshing soup is a great way to kickstart your digestive system and boost your overall well-being. The combination of cabbage, ginger, and garlic creates a potent blend of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help soothe the gut and promote detoxification.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 inches of fresh ginger, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup of coconut water
– 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped cabbage, sliced ginger, and minced garlic in a little bit of olive oil until tender.
2. Add the vegetable broth, coconut water, and apple cider vinegar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is very tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Immune-Support Soup
This comforting soup combines the warmth of pumpkin with the earthy flavor of sage to create a delicious and immune-supportive meal. With its rich ingredients, this recipe is perfect for a chilly fall or winter day.
Ingredients:
– 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the pumpkin, chicken broth, coconut milk, and sage.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Wild Rice and Mushroom Healing Soup
A nourishing and comforting soup that combines the earthy flavors of wild rice and mushrooms to support overall well-being.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake, cremini, and oyster), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the wild rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the wild rice, water or broth, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tomato and Basil Soup with Anti-Inflammatory Herbs
This nourishing soup combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil with the added benefits of anti-inflammatory herbs, making it a perfect comfort food for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon dried ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic, turmeric, ginger, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add diced tomatoes, basil, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carrot and Ginger Immune-Boosting Soup
Nourish your body with this vibrant and flavorful soup, packed with immune-boosting properties from carrots and ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped carrots and grated ginger; sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the carrots are very tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches and return to the pot.
6. If using coconut milk, stir it in just before serving.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Carrot and Ginger Immune-Boosting Soup!
Summary
Get comforted by these soothing healing soup recipes! From Chicken and Ginger to Moroccan Lentil and Chickpea, this collection offers 18 nourishing options to ease your mind and body. Each recipe combines wholesome ingredients with medicinal properties to promote immune-boosting, detoxifying, and anti-inflammatory effects. Whether you’re seeking relief from a cold or simply looking for a cozy meal to warm the soul, these soups are sure to hit the spot. So go ahead, simmer up a pot, and let the healing begin!