Nana'S "Little Bear" Soup
Nana's "Little Bear" Soup is a comforting, hearty dish featuring crushed tomatoes and mixed vegetables, thickened with a simple milk and flour mixture. Its rich flavors and easy preparation make it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, offering a nostalgic taste of homemade goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the crushed tomatoes, frozen mixed vegetables, and chopped onion and bring to a boil.
- In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup milk and 2 tablespoons self-rising flour.
- Gradually stir the milk and flour mixture into the boiling soup.
- Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the soup thickens.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding cooked beans or lentils to boost protein content. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can use all-purpose flour and add a teaspoon of baking powder. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the flavor profile. To balance acidity from the tomatoes, a pinch of sugar can be added. Serve with crusty bread or a side of Bo Biscuits for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Nana's 'Little Bear' Soup warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. This soup pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread, making it a perfect light lunch or dinner. For a more substantial meal, consider pairing it with Jeweled Fruitcake Miniatures for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, for about 2-3 minutes or until hot. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of water or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nana'S "Little Bear" Soup contains roughly 306 calories, with 7g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables. Just make sure to chop them into small, even pieces for consistent cooking. Fresh vegetables may require a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly. Popular choices include carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini.
Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This recipe is entirely vegetarian, as it contains no meat or meat-based broth. For a vegan option, simply substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative, like almond milk or oat milk, and ensure the self-rising flour is vegan.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes while the soup is simmering. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side, allowing each person to adjust the spice level to their taste.
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).