Hot (Soup)
A warm, comforting chicken broth-based soup with a tangy tomato flavor, accented by lemon and spicy cayenne. Perfect for a light meal or soothing remedy, it offers a balance of acidity and heat, appealing to those who enjoy simple yet flavorful homemade soups.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice a large onion and boil in chicken broth until tender.
- Strain out the onion and discard it.
- Return the broth to heat.
- Add one (or more) can of pureed tomatoes.
- Stir the mixture well.
- Season with black pepper and ground cayenne pepper to taste.
- Simmer the soup.
- Pour into cups and serve over a slice of lemon.
- Optional: Drop strips of corn tortillas into the soup before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. You can replace the cayenne pepper with smoked paprika for a different kick. If you want to add some vegetables, consider tossing in diced carrots or celery while boiling the onion. Adjust seasoning to your preference to enhance the taste. This soup is versatile and can complement many American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with a slice of lemon for a fresh burst of flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider adding strips of corn tortillas to the soup before serving for added texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pour the soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup thickens, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot (Soup) contains roughly 490 calories, with 18g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (273% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (231% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (133% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 803mg per serving (35% 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 vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian-friendly. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings to balance the flavors.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To increase the heat, add more cayenne pepper or include diced jalapeños or hot sauce. Start with small amounts and taste as you go to avoid overpowering the soup. You can also serve with additional hot sauce on the side for those who like it extra spicy.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove. Avoid freezing with lemon slices as they may alter the texture.
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).