Free Cal Soup
A hearty, low-cost vegetable soup with tomato and savory bouillon flavors, perfect for those seeking a comforting, simple, and nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring the tomato juice, water, chicken bouillon cubes, and beef bouillon cubes to a boil.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes.
- Add chopped cabbage and chopped onion to the soup.
- Simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced carrots or celery to enhance flavor and texture. If you're looking to reduce sodium, use low-sodium bouillon cubes or homemade broth. You can also substitute vegetable bouillon for a vegetarian option. To add a kick, try incorporating some hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes. This soup freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a light meal. For an extra protein boost, serve it alongside grilled chicken or a scoop of cooked quinoa. Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of cheese can add a nice finishing touch. Explore more comforting options like Good Corn Chowder to complement your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Free Cal Soup contains roughly 703 calories, with 15g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (129% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1760mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato juice?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes for this recipe. You'll need to blanch, peel, and chop about 12-15 medium tomatoes to replace the 1 quart of tomato juice. This will give your soup a fresh flavor, but keep in mind it may require additional seasoning to achieve the desired taste.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat to your soup, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce during the cooking process. Additionally, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a more subtle warmth. Adjust to your spice preference and enjoy a lively twist on this classic recipe.
Is there a way to make this soup creamier?
For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup after it has cooked, then return it to the pot. Alternatively, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving. This will add richness and depth to the flavor without overpowering the original ingredients.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).