As the temperature drops, there’s nothing like a warm and comforting bowl of soup to lift your spirits. And what better way to do so than with a delicious and authentic Spanish soup? From creamy gazpachos to hearty lentil stews, Spain has a rich tradition of soups that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 flavorful Spanish soup recipes that are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes offer something for everyone – and they’re all authentically Spanish!
Classic Gazpacho with Fresh Vegetables
A refreshing and flavorful Spanish soup that’s perfect for hot summer days, gazpacho is a vibrant blend of tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumbers, and bread. This recipe brings together the essence of fresh vegetables to create a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, bell pepper, cucumber, garlic, and breadcrumbs.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides of the blender.
3. Heat olive oil in a large bowl and pour the gazpacho mixture into it.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes chilling time)
Creamy Spanish Garlic Soup
This rich and creamy soup is a classic Spanish dish that’s perfect for a cold winter night. With the pungency of garlic, the comfort of cream, and the warmth of chicken broth, this soup is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hearty Sopa de Lentejas
Hearty Sopa de Lentejas Recipe
Summary:
This classic Spanish lentil soup is a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for a chilly evening or as a pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in a little water until tender.
2. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Traditional Cocido Madrileño
Cocido Madrileño, a hearty and comforting Spanish stew, is a staple of Madrid’s culinary tradition. This rich and flavorful dish is perfect for a cold winter’s day or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef (shank or neck), cut into large pieces
– 1 pound pork ribs, cut into sections
– 1 pound chicken thighs, cut into large pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 can of chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the beef, pork, chicken, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the chickpeas, chicken broth, water, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the meat is tender.
5. If using potatoes, add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Spicy Sopa de Ajo
A flavorful and spicy garlic soup from Latin America, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Cook onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in cumin and smoked paprika (if using); cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in broth and diced tomatoes; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and optional jalapeños or hot sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rich Sopa de Mariscos
Rich Sopa de Mariscos Recipe
Summary: Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this hearty seafood stew, packed with a variety of fish and shellfish in a savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1 pound clams, scrubbed
– 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 pound cod, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fish broth
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mussels, clams, shrimp, and cod; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the fish broth and white wine; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the seafood is tender.
6. Stir in the parsley; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Flavorful Sopa de Pescado
This hearty seafood soup from the coast of Spain is a warm and comforting treat, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 pound mixed fish (such as cod, hake, or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups fish broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add fish and cook until opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in broth, water, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 15-20 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Authentic Sopa de Albóndigas
Authentic Sopa de Albóndigas Recipe
Sopa de Albóndigas is a hearty and comforting Mexican soup that originated from the city of Puebla. This traditional recipe features tender meatballs, vegetables, and a rich chicken broth, all combined in a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with oil and gently roll to coat evenly.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large pot, sauté the diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery in vegetable oil until the vegetables are tender.
6. Add the chicken broth, water, and baked meatballs to the pot. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Zesty Gazpacho Andaluz
This classic Spanish soup from the region of Andalusia is a refreshing and flavorful treat for hot summer days. This zesty gazpacho recipe combines juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy bread for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup stale bread, cubed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine tomatoes, cucumber, bread, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and smoked paprika.
2. Blend the mixture until smooth, leaving some texture if desired.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time), 30 minutes (chilling time)
Comforting Sopa de Patatas
This hearty potato soup from Spain is a staple of comforting cuisine, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender to puree until smooth.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Savory Sopa de Garbanzos
This hearty Spanish-inspired soup is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, made with creamy garbanzos (chickpeas), aromatic spices, and a touch of smokiness. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a comforting snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can garbanzos (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in garbanzos, broth, water, and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Refreshing Salmorejo Cordobés
Experience the essence of Andalusian cuisine with this refreshing twist on traditional gazpacho. This chilled soup is a perfect summer treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, bell pepper, cucumber, parsley, basil, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar.
2. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve cold, garnished with feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy chilled soup perfect for hot summer days.
Delicious Sopa de Verduras
Delicious Sopa de Verduras Recipe
A hearty and flavorful Spanish-inspired vegetable soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Nutritious Sopa de Quinoa
This hearty soup recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with a variety of vegetables and spices, making it a perfect comfort food for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add the quinoa, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the quinoa is tender.
3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tangy Sopa de Tomate
Tangy Sopa de Tomate Recipe
Summary: This classic Mexican tomato soup is a flavorful and comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Warming Sopa de Cebolla
As the winter chill sets in, warm up with this comforting Spanish onion soup, perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Crusty bread, toasted (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re soft and caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Add the chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let it warm through for 10-15 minutes.
5. Stir in the heavy cream.
6. Serve hot, with toasted crusty bread on the side (if desired).
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tasty Sopa de Calabaza
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this comforting and creamy pumpkin soup, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add pumpkin, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender in batches) to puree until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Unique Sopa de Ajo Blanco
This creamy garlic soup from Spain’s La Rioja region is a twist on the classic white garlic soup. This recipe adds some excitement with sautéed chorizo and Manchego cheese, making it a hearty and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chorizo, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Manchego cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add chorizo and cook until browned.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and Manchego cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 authentic Spanish soup recipes! From classic Gazpacho with fresh vegetables to hearty Sopa de Lentejas and creamy Spanish Garlic Soup, there’s something for everyone. Try traditional Cocido Madrileño or Spicy Sopa de Ajo for a bold flavor kick. For seafood lovers, Rich Sopa de Mariscos is a must-try. With options like Flavorful Sopa de Pescado, Zesty Gazpacho Andaluz, and Comforting Sopa de Patatas, you’ll never get bored with this collection of Spanish soups. Warm up with Warming Sopa de Cebolla or cool down with Refreshing Salmorejo Cordobés – the possibilities are endless!
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