Poor Man's Soup Calories

Poor Man's Soup gets its name from its economical ingredients and uncomplicated preparation. The name describes a practical, inexpensive style of cooking rather than one universally documented origin or a single traditional recipe.

To make Poor Man's Soup, soften chopped onion in a little oil, add any vegetables you have and cover them with water. Simmer until tender, then season to taste; the ingredients can vary with the pantry and season.

Yes, Poor Man's Soup can be made without tomatoes or tomato paste. Use onion, other vegetables, herbs and seasoning for flavor, adding extra water or broth as needed to cook them until tender.

Build flavor in Poor Man's Soup by cooking the onion before adding the liquid, then seasoning with herbs, pepper or garlic. A squeeze of lemon at the end can brighten the taste without making the soup complicated.

Add cooked beans, lentils or chickpeas to make Poor Man's Soup more filling. Grains such as rice or barley can also give it more body; add cooked legumes near the end so they warm through without breaking apart.

Yes, Poor Man's Soup freezes well, though potato pieces may become softer after thawing. Cool it before packing into freezer-safe containers, leave room for expansion, and stir well while reheating.

Store leftover Poor Man's Soup in a covered container in the refrigerator once it has cooled. Reheat only the portion you plan to eat, and avoid leaving the soup at room temperature for a long time.

Serve Poor Man's Soup with crusty bread, toast or a simple sandwich for a more complete meal. A salad or a spoonful of plain yogurt can also complement its mild vegetable flavor.

Yes, you can blend Poor Man's Soup for a smoother texture. Let it cool slightly first, blend carefully in batches if using a countertop blender, and thin it with water if it becomes too thick.