20 Unusual Soup Recipes You Absolutely Must Try
When it comes to comfort food, soup often tops the list. But why stick to the usual flavors when there’s a world of unique and unexpected soup recipes to explore? These 20 unusual soup recipes offer exciting new takes on this beloved dish, combining surprising ingredients and flavors to create something truly special. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply elevate your everyday meals, these soups are sure to inspire and delight.
1. Cucumber and Avocado Soup
A refreshing cold soup perfect for warm weather, this Cucumber and Avocado Soup blends the creaminess of ripe avocados with the crisp, cool flavor of cucumbers. Enhanced with Greek yogurt and fresh herbs like mint and dill, it’s a light, refreshing dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
2. Watermelon Gazpacho
This twist on traditional gazpacho combines sweet watermelon with the classic ingredients of tomatoes, cucumbers, and a touch of jalapeño. The result is a refreshing, slightly spicy chilled soup that’s perfect for summer. It’s a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a standout starter.
3. Thai Coconut and Lemongrass Soup
Thai Coconut and Lemongrass Soup, known as Tom Kha, is a fragrant and creamy dish that’s rich in flavor. Made with coconut milk, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and a hint of chili, this soup is both soothing and exotic. It’s perfect for those looking to add a bit of global flair to their soup repertoire.
4. Roasted Red Pepper and Cauliflower Soup
Roasted Red Pepper and Cauliflower Soup is a vibrant, creamy dish that’s both healthy and satisfying. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the peppers and cauliflower, while smoked paprika adds a depth of flavor that makes this soup truly special.
5. Sweet Potato and Peanut Soup
Inspired by West African cuisine, this Sweet Potato and Peanut Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that blends the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of peanut butter. Spices like cumin and coriander add warmth, making it perfect for a cozy evening meal.
6. Curried Apple Soup
Curried Apple Soup is an intriguing blend of sweet and savory, combining the natural sweetness of apples with the warm, spicy flavors of curry. This autumn-inspired soup is perfect for those who love a little adventure in their culinary explorations, offering a unique flavor profile that’s both comforting and refreshing.
7. Pumpkin and Black Bean Soup
This Pumpkin and Black Bean Soup is a savory dish that pairs the earthy flavor of pumpkin with the hearty texture of black beans. Seasoned with cumin, garlic, and a splash of lime juice, this soup is a satisfying and nutritious option that’s perfect for fall or winter.
8. Chilled Pea and Mint Soup
Chilled Pea and Mint Soup is a vibrant green soup that’s served cold, making it an excellent choice for warm days. Fresh peas and mint are blended with a touch of cream, creating a light and refreshing dish that’s both simple and elegant. It’s an ideal appetizer or a light lunch.
9. Carrot and Ginger Soup with Orange
This Carrot and Ginger Soup with Orange offers a zesty twist on a classic combination. The sweetness of the carrots is complemented by the heat of ginger and the brightness of fresh orange juice, resulting in a warming and invigorating soup that’s perfect for any time of year.
10. Spiced Beet Soup with Yogurt Swirl
Spiced Beet Soup with Yogurt Swirl is a visually stunning dish that pairs the earthy sweetness of beets with warming spices like cumin and coriander. The addition of a yogurt swirl adds a cooling contrast, making this soup as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
11. Bacon and Brussels Sprout Soup
Bacon and Brussels Sprout Soup is a hearty, savory dish that combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the tender sweetness of Brussels sprouts. Finished with a rich, creamy base, this soup is perfect for those cold winter nights when you need something comforting and filling.
12. Chestnut and Celery Root Soup
Chestnut and Celery Root Soup is a rich and earthy dish that’s perfect for fall and winter. Roasted chestnuts add a sweet, nutty flavor, while the celery root provides an earthy base that’s both creamy and satisfying. It’s a sophisticated option that’s sure to impress.
13. Lentil and Spinach Soup with Poached Egg
Lentil and Spinach Soup with Poached Egg is a protein-packed dish that’s both hearty and healthy. The poached egg adds a rich, creamy texture to the soup, while the lentils and spinach provide a nutritious base that’s full of flavor and nutrients.
14. Spicy Pineapple and Shrimp Soup
Spicy Pineapple and Shrimp Soup offers a unique combination of sweet and spicy flavors, inspired by Thai cuisine. The sweetness of the pineapple contrasts beautifully with the savory shrimp and the heat of the chili, creating a soup that’s both refreshing and exciting.
15. Cabbage and Sausage Soup
Cabbage and Sausage Soup is a rustic, hearty dish that’s full of flavor. The cabbage adds a subtle sweetness, while the smoked sausage provides a rich, savory base. It’s a filling soup that’s perfect for cold days or when you’re in the mood for something comforting and substantial.
16. Creamy Corn and Crab Soup
Creamy Corn and Crab Soup is a luxurious dish that combines the sweetness of corn with the delicate flavor of crabmeat. Enriched with cream and seasoned with a touch of Old Bay, this soup is a decadent treat that’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something indulgent.
17. Raspberry and Beet Soup
Raspberry and Beet Soup is an unusual but delightful combination, offering the earthiness of beets with the tartness of raspberries. This chilled soup is both refreshing and visually striking, making it an excellent choice for a summer appetizer or a light meal.
18. Persian Herb and Bean Soup (Ash Reshteh)
Ash Reshteh is a traditional Persian soup that’s rich in herbs, beans, and noodles. Often garnished with a drizzle of whey or yogurt, this soup is hearty and nutritious, offering a complex flavor profile that’s both comforting and satisfying. It’s a must-try for those interested in global cuisine.
19. Garlic Soup with Poached Egg
Garlic Soup with Poached Egg, or Sopa de Ajo, is a rustic Spanish dish that’s both simple and flavorful. Made with roasted garlic and bread, this soup is topped with a poached egg, which adds richness and creaminess to every spoonful. It’s a warming, comforting soup that’s perfect for garlic lovers.
20. Peanut Butter and Squash Soup
Peanut Butter and Squash Soup is a creamy, slightly sweet dish that combines the richness of peanut butter with the earthy flavor of roasted squash. A hint of cayenne pepper adds a subtle kick, making this soup a delicious and unexpected treat that’s perfect for fall.
