With Ramadan just around the corner, soup is definitely at the forefront of our minds, as it is the best and healthiest way to break a fast. How many of you however, are looking for ways to make your soups taste even better? Whether you’re looking to enhance flavour or add a little texture, here are a few tips to get you started.

1. Fresh Herbs & Spices; remember to add your dry spices at the start to cook off any bitterness, and your fresh herbs about 15 or so minutes before serving to ensure you get the most out of their unique flavours as well as some added texture which would otherwise wilt away if cooked too early.
2. Make it creamy; An easy way to enhance your soup is by adding a creamy element. Whether you prefer to sauté your base in butter or add some cream at the end, both will create a more luscious dish. If you’re plant based however, then opt for either coconut milk or cream to create similar results. Another alternative to creating a creamy consistency would be to partially puree the soup, either with a regular or immersion blender.
3. Add Texture; since the consistency of many ingredients gets lost during the cooking process, it helps to add more texture to your soup just before serving. Whether it’s croutons, toasted pumpkin seeds, fresh herbs or some hearty fresh vegetables that barely sit on the surface of your bowl, you can rest assured that your soup will be that much better for it. Consider texture as well when opting for toppings and garnishes.
4. Citrus and/or Acid; if you’ve ever tasted a soup and thought to yourself ‘something’s missing’, it’s probably the acid, which acts as a huge flavour booster. Pro tip however, whether it’s a dash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon, be sure to add it just before serving to preserve their flavour. Also, if using any citrus fruit, use the zest before juicing for a little extra tang and freshness.
5. Flavoured Oils; if you like to add a little drizzle of something before serving, make sure it’s good quality and lightly flavoured. For example, next time you add a dash of olive oil to your favourite potato soup, check in your cupboard for a little something extra, maybe one that is infused with lemon or dried herbs? Or opt for something a little pungent, such as truffle or toasted sesame oil – just be sure to go easy as you wouldn’t want these flavours to overpower the soup.
6. Savoury Flavour Enhancers; these include items such as miso paste, soy sauce, gochujang, a heaped tablespoon of good quality nut butter, nutritional yeast, cheese rind… etc. Even if well-seasoned, these simple additions will add an extra depth and complexity to your soup.
7. Homemade Stock; it really does help to have your own stock on hand. If you prefer store-bought however, make them your own by adding your favourite aromatics, herbs and spices to help elevate their flavours and make for a more delicious finished product.
8. Canned Beans & their Liquids; If you’re opting to use canned beans in your soup, don’t drain them as their fluids are in fact, liquid gold! Simply pour the entire contents of the can into your mixture as they are natural thickening agents that make for a creamier finish, and their high fibre content also makes for a more gut friendly soup.
9. Avoid Boiling; once your mixture starts to simmer, reduce heat to the lowest setting and leave to simmer, low and slow until the soup is done. This will give the ingredients an opportunity to infuse and maintain their flavours and textures, all of which would mostly be lost if left to overcook at too high a temperature.
10. Keep Uncovered; Once taken off the heat, remove the lid and leave to cool down for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows you to enjoy the soup while it’s warm as opposed to piping hot. Furthermore, allow the soup to cool completely, and uncovered as trapping in the steam for too long can cause bacteria to grow. Once cooled, store leftovers in airtight containers and re-heat to enjoy again at your leisure.

There you have it, a few simple steps to transform your soup from okay to divine! Check out yufeed for some creative soup inspirations this coming Ramadan and feel free to share your feedback in the comments!