Creating your own soup seasoning blend is not only cost-effective but also ensures that you’re using the freshest ingredients without any unnecessary additives. This homemade seasoning mix is a great alternative to store-bought products and can last for up to a year, thanks to the preservation power of salt. By customizing your own blend of herbs and vegetables, you can tailor the flavors to your liking and enjoy a healthier option for seasoning soups, stews, and other dishes.
Why Make Your Own Soup Seasoning?
Store-bought soup seasonings and granulated broths often contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and excessive amounts of sodium. When you make your own, you have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring the use of fresh, organic herbs and vegetables. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also be reducing food waste by using up garden herbs or leftover vegetables. Best of all, this homemade seasoning is incredibly easy to prepare and lasts for up to a year in storage, making it a convenient pantry staple.
Ingredients
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 2 leek stalks, chopped
- 5 medium-sized onions, chopped
- 1 bunch parsley, chopped
- 1 bunch chives, chopped
- 1 bunch garlic chives, chopped
- ½ bulb garlic, minced
- 1 bunch mixed herbs (whatever is available from your garden: thyme, rosemary, oregano, etc.)
- Salt: Use 10 g (2 tsp) salt per 100 g of vegetables
Note: You can adjust the herb and vegetable selection based on what you have available. This recipe is flexible and can be modified to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs
Start by thoroughly cleaning all the herbs and vegetables under cold running water. It’s essential to remove any dirt or debris, especially if you’re using herbs from your garden. Pat the vegetables dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture, as this will help prolong the shelf life of the seasoning mix.
2. Chop the Ingredients
Once the vegetables are clean and dry, chop them roughly into manageable pieces. There’s no need to be too precise here, as the vegetables will be processed further in a blender or food processor. Ensure the garlic is minced finely, as this will add a strong flavor to the seasoning.
3. Blend or Puree the Mixture
Place the chopped vegetables and herbs into a blender or food processor. Pulse the ingredients until they are finely chopped. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can puree the mixture until it reaches your desired texture. Keep in mind that the finer the blend, the more uniform the seasoning will be, making it easier to dissolve in soups and stews.
4. Add Salt for Preservation
Once you’ve blended the vegetables to your liking, weigh the mixture. For every 100 g (about 3.5 oz) of vegetable mixture, add 10 g (2 tsp) of salt. The salt acts as a natural preservative, drawing out moisture and preventing bacterial growth, which is why the seasoning can last for up to a year when stored properly.
5. Mix Thoroughly
After adding the salt, mix the vegetable blend thoroughly to ensure the salt is evenly distributed. This step is crucial for consistent flavor and effective preservation. You want the salt to come into contact with all parts of the mixture.
6. Store in Jars
Transfer the seasoned mixture into sterilized, airtight glass jars. Screw the lids on tightly to ensure no air gets in. Label each jar with the date of preparation, so you can keep track of its shelf life. Store the jars in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard. The mixture will keep for up to 1 year, but it’s important to check the seasoning occasionally to ensure it remains fresh.
Usage Tips
This homemade seasoning can be used just like store-bought granulated broth or bouillon cubes. Add it directly to soups, stews, sauces, or even pasta water for an extra boost of flavor. Here are a few tips to get the most out of your seasoning:
- As a base for soups: Add 1-2 teaspoons of seasoning per cup of water for a quick and flavorful soup base.
- In sauces: Stir a spoonful into tomato sauces or gravies for an additional depth of flavor.
- In stews and casseroles: Sprinkle the seasoning over your stew or casserole ingredients for an even distribution of flavor.
- On vegetables: Mix with a bit of olive oil and toss with roasted or steamed vegetables.
Our Tip:
This seasoning can be customized to suit your personal taste. Feel free to add other spices like black pepper, bay leaves, or dried chilies for a different flavor profile. Additionally, if you want a more intense flavor, you can dry the vegetables before blending to concentrate their taste.
Nutritional Information
Per 1 teaspoon serving:
- Calories: 5 kcal
- Protein: 0.1 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0.2 g
- Sodium: Varies based on salt content
This homemade seasoning is low in calories and fat but does contain a significant amount of sodium due to the preservation method. Keep this in mind when adding it to your dishes, especially if you are watching your sodium intake.
Conclusion
Making your own soup seasoning at home is not only simple but also allows you to create a personalized blend of fresh vegetables and herbs. The addition of salt ensures that the mixture can be stored for up to a year, providing a convenient and flavorful alternative to commercial seasonings. Whether you’re looking to reduce food waste, avoid preservatives, or simply enjoy the freshest flavors, this homemade soup seasoning is a fantastic addition to your kitchen pantry.