Soupas(Portuguese Soup)
A hearty Portuguese soup with tender meat infused with aromatic spices, tomato sauce, and a hint of wine and vinegar, perfect for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook meat in water until tender.
- Place the cooked meat and liquid in a large pot.
- Add all ingredients except mint and cook, adding enough water to cover, and simmer for 1-2 hours.
- Add mint and simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes.
- Remove spice bag and mint before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of meats such as beef and pork, or even a smoked sausage for depth. If you can't find pickling spice, a combination of mustard seeds, coriander, and allspice can work as a substitute. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also enhance the taste. Be sure to adjust salt to taste after simmering, as the tomato sauce can add significant saltiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Soupas with crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. A side salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup. For a festive touch, pair it with a glass of Burgundy wine, complementing the flavors beautifully. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s too thick. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to leave space in the container for expansion.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Soupas(Portuguese Soup) contains roughly 308 calories, with 5g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of iron (11% of the Daily Value), protein (10% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2140mg per serving (93% 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 make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
What type of meat works best for this recipe?
You can use any tender cut of meat such as beef chuck or pork shoulder. For a twist, try using chicken or turkey, but be mindful that cooking times may vary. The key is to choose meat that becomes tender during the simmering process.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Soupas, replace the meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, and potatoes. Use vegetable broth instead of water, and for added protein, consider adding lentils or chickpeas. This will create a deliciously filling and comforting soup.
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).