The key to a deliciously perfect soup is seasoning, and all kinds of soup need flavor tailored to perfection. But finding that perfect flavor combo can be tricky. Unlike adding different soup toppings, spice combos for soup boil down to the types. So, let’s narrow it down to several of the best spices for soup. Some of the best spices for soups are paprika, curry powder, garlic, basil, and turmeric. But these aren’t the only tasty soup spices you can use, so let’s tuck into more!
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💡 Best Spices for Any Soup
Thyme
A pungent, woody spice with a perfect flavor combo that’s tucked into its many benefits. Thyme has that soup toppings shine to it. A final dash of flavor on top of a bed of flavor. Nutritionally, thyme is rich in vitamins C and A, as well as antioxidants. An all-around spice that’s perfectly paired with minestrone soups, bean soups, and chicken noodle soups.
Cayenne Peppers
One of the most popular spices for soup, cayenne peppers need no introduction. These ground-dried chili peppers pack a fiery heat with a slightly fruity and earthy flavor. Even the dullest soups explode with delicious flavor when this spice is added. They even pack some tasty health benefits from its active compound, capsaicin. This compound provides pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties while also boosting metabolism and reducing appetite.
Cumin
Envelop your soup in delicious nutty and peppery delight. Cumin is a perfect spice for soup, with both flavor and nutrition to back it up. The spice is packed with iron and antioxidants that help balance flavor with health. Cumin’s earthy richness can make for tasty pairings with Moroccan-inspired soups and chicken tortilla soups.
Paprika
Add a splash of smoky or hot delight to your soup with a pantry classic. With tons of variations under its belt, this spice’s rich red hue and mild pepperiness are a flavor for all. It’s even a great way to add flavor and texture when making soups creamy. This spice showcases its own nutritional benefits, like vitamins A and E and antioxidants. Hands down, it’s one of the best spices for soup, with rich flavors that pair great with tomato soup, potato soup, and goulash.
Coriander
Seeds that pack a citrusy kick. Coriander is a perfectly flavored spice for soups. They add a nuanced, multi-layered flavor profile with citrusy, nutty, and sweet notes. These seeds are rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients like vitamins C and K, potassium, magnesium, iron, and dietary fiber. A perfect blend of flavor and nutritional content for lentil soups, tomato-based soups, and curried soups like butternut squash or sweet potato.
Turmeric
The slight bitterness, earth flavor, and hint of pepper are one of the few reasons to toss this in your soup. Turmeric is a potent blend of flavor and spice that a soup needs. It’s also a convenient way to make soup less salty, as it can mask the salty flavor. This spice also contains curcumin, a compound recognized for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This spice serves perfectly in lentil, vegetable soups, and the delicious dal soup.
Black Pepper
A perfect spice you can’t miss adding to soup! Black pepper is a classic pantry staple for soup. With seemingly no end to its uses, it adds that warm, sharp kick with flavors ranging from mild to spicy. It contains piperine, which can enhance nutrient absorption and has antioxidant properties, along with small amounts of vitamins and minerals. You can pair this great spice with any and all soups.
🧐 FAQs
To tone down the spiciness of soup, add more broth, cream, or coconut milk to dilute the heat. You can also incorporate ingredients like potatoes, rice, or a squeeze of lemon juice to help balance the flavors.
Thyme, rosemary, parsley, and bay leaves are the best herbs for soup, as they’re earthy and fresh in aroma. Fresh basil, cilantro, and dill are also great options, depending on the type of soup and desired flavor.
Salt, black pepper, garlic, and herbs like thyme and basil, are great seasonings for soup. These seasonings are used in combination to create a delicious flavor profile.
Good spices to put in soup include cumin, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, each adding unique flavors and warmth to the dish. Other great options are turmeric, coriander, and nutmeg.