Poor Man’s Soup is a simple, budget-friendly dish that delivers rich flavors in a hearty broth. Made with minimal ingredients, it’s perfect for those looking for an easy, satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Whether you’re cooking for a family or meal prepping for the week, this humble soup is a winner.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 4-5 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can corn (or more, if you like extra corn)
- 1 can hot tomato sauce
- 1 can regular tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp cumin
- Knorr chicken bouillon, salt, and pepper (to taste)
- Little pasta (added about 10 minutes before serving or cooked separately)
- Water
- Half can regular tomato sauce
- Garlic salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
- Brown the ground beef (or turkey) in a large pot over medium heat. Drain excess grease.
2. Combine Ingredients:
- Add the potatoes, corn, both cans of tomato sauce, cumin, and Knorr chicken bouillon to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Simmer:
- Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients. Bring to a simmer over low heat. Let it cook for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally to help the flavors meld.
4. Cook the Pasta:
- About 10 minutes before serving, add the little pasta to the soup (or cook separately and add later).
5. Season to Taste:
- Add salt, pepper, and garlic salt to taste, adjusting the seasoning as necessary.
6. Serve:
- Once the potatoes are tender and the soup is flavorful, serve hot. This soup is perfect for dinner and makes enough for leftovers the next day.
Alternate Cooking Method (Crockpot):
- Brown the beef or turkey and combine all ingredients in a crockpot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Adjust seasoning before serving.
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
Helpful Tips:
- If you have fresh vegetables on hand, such as carrots or celery, feel free to add them for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a thicker soup, mash a few of the potatoes after cooking, or add a small amount of flour to the broth while simmering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in Poor Man’s Soup?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef to make a leaner version of the soup. It will still be delicious and hearty.
Are there any vegetarian alternatives for Poor Man’s Soup?
You can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives, such as tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken bouillon for a vegetarian version.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomato sauce?
Absolutely! If you have fresh tomatoes, simply dice or puree them to substitute for the canned tomato sauce. Fresh tomatoes will bring a vibrant, homemade flavor to the soup.
How long should I cook Poor Man’s Soup on the stovetop?
Cook the soup on low heat for about an hour to allow the flavors to meld. Be sure the potatoes are tender before serving.
Can I freeze Poor Man’s Soup for later use?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat.
Conclusion:
Poor Man’s Soup is proof that you don’t need to spend a lot of money to create a satisfying and flavorful meal. With a few basic ingredients, you can enjoy a comforting soup that will fill your stomach and warm your heart. This soup is not only affordable but versatile, allowing you to customize it based on what you have on hand. Whether served on a chilly evening or prepped for a busy week, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.