Soups Around the World
A meal almost as old as humans, soup is a dish that is found in every type of cuisine in the world. Based on region, race, and religion, every culture has its own soup(s) that vary in everything from temperature to flavor. While soup may be one of the simplest foods in the world, its origins and sources may be the most complex. In this article, we will explore the long history behind some of the most popular soups in the world.
Clam Chowder: An East Coast staple, Clam Chowder is a historic soup that utilizes New England’s fishing industry to combine a medley of seafood with a heavy cream base. Said to have been introduced by French Soldiers in Colonial America, it has spread throughout the country with many different varieties including Manhatten, Oregon, and even Texan Clam Chowder.
Miso Soup: A combination of tofu, seaweed, and traditional Japanese Dashi, Miso Soup is one of the most popular side dishes in Asian cuisine worldwide. Due to the anti-inflammatory properties of Dashi—a fish stock, Japan’s most famous soup is one of the best home remedies for a common cold or flu.
Soupe à l’oignon (French Onion): Distinct for its bread and melted cheese topping, this French classic served at many high-end restaurants originated as a peasant dish. Due to the convenience of obtaining onions and beef stock, this humble stew was eventually paired with the fine bread and Gruyere cheese of French nobility, and became one of Europe’s most popular soups.
Australian Pumpkin Soup: Drawing elements of Indian, English, and Japanese cuisine, the many varieties of Australian pumpkin soup add unique elements like shrimp, prawns, or pine nuts. Traditionally eaten with croutons and a salad, pumpkin soup is an Aussie autumnal favorite that is served in many restaurants throughout the country.
Nigerian Egusi Soup: A seed-based soup most often infused with crayfish, beef, and greens, Egusi takes advantage of unique herbs and spices native to a few parts of Africa to create this creamy concoction. Egusi is often eaten with Fufu, a dough made from potato and cassava that is dipped in the soup.
Lentil Soup: Originating in modern-day Syria, Lentil soup is one of the oldest and simplest in the world. It can be cooked with any type of lentils and is often mixed with vegetables like carrots or potatoes. Lentil soup is ubiquitous throughout the Middle East, Europe, and South Asia. It is often mentioned in the texts of Judaism, Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity.
Encebollado: Described as a light, soothing soup, Encebollado combines fresh tuna with pickled onions, cassava, and tomatoes to make the national food of Ecuador. Despite its pungent smell, Encebollado is also very famous for its healing properties—often dubbed the best hangover cure in the world.