There’s something comforting about a bowl of soup that brings to mind childhood memories of family meals and cozy evenings. One such classic, which has stood the test of time in many homes, is Mrs. Grass Soup. Known for its savory depth and hearty flavor, Mrs. Grass Soup has earned its place in kitchens across the country.
Whether you’ve grown up with it or have just heard of it, the warm, rich broth paired with tender noodles makes it a perfect choice for a chilly day or when you need a little comfort. The beauty of this soup lies not only in its taste but in its simplicity, and the way it can transform the humble ingredients into something that feels truly special.
In this guide, we’ll dive into how you can easily make Mrs. Grass Soup from scratch. Along the way, we’ll explore the essential ingredients, give you some expert tips for perfecting the soup, and even suggest some fun variations to put your own spin on it.
Mrs. Grass Soup Recipe
This version of Mrs. Grass Soup is hearty, flavorful, and super easy to prepare. It combines the distinctive taste of Mrs. Grass soup mix with wholesome ingredients that make it both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you’re in a rush or have some time to spare, it’s a great choice for a meal that’s simple yet delicious.
Servings: 4-6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Ingredients Needed
- 1 box of Mrs. Grass Soup Mix (this is the heart of the recipe, providing the base flavor and seasonings)
- 4 cups of water (you’ll need enough liquid to bring out the full richness of the soup mix)
- 2 tbsp of butter (adds a little richness and depth to the flavor)
- 1/2 cup of diced carrots (provides color, texture, and a slight sweetness to balance the savory notes)
- 1/2 cup of diced celery (adds crunch and an earthy flavor)
- 1/4 cup of chopped onions (for a mild oniony backdrop)
- 1/2 cup of cooked chicken (optional, but it gives the soup a satisfying protein boost)
- 1/4 tsp of garlic powder (for a subtle garlicky warmth)
- 1/4 tsp of ground black pepper (adds a touch of spice)
- 1 tbsp of parsley (fresh or dried, for garnish and a pop of color)
Cooking Instructions
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Prepare The Vegetables
- Start by washing and peeling your carrots, then slice them into small pieces. Do the same for the celery and onions. You don’t need to make them perfect-just chop them into small, manageable pieces.
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Cook The Vegetables
- In a medium-sized pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the carrots, celery, and onions. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft and the onions turn translucent.
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Add The Water And Soup Mix
- Pour in 4 cups of water, then add the Mrs. Grass Soup Mix. Stir to combine and dissolve the soup mix into the water.
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Bring It To A Simmer
- Stir the soup mixture, and bring the pot to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15 minutes, uncovered, allowing the vegetables to cook through and the soup to thicken slightly.
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Add The Chicken And Season
- If you’re using cooked chicken, add it at this point. Stir in the garlic powder, black pepper, and any other spices you like. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
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Garnish And Serve
- Once your soup is ready, ladle it into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy the delightful warmth and flavor of this homemade soup!
Ingredient Insights
The ingredients in Mrs. Grass Soup aren’t just there for flavor-they each bring their own unique contribution to the dish:
- Mrs. Grass Soup Mix: The core of the recipe, this mix contains dried vegetables, herbs, and seasonings that create a savory, satisfying broth. It’s the shortcut to building a flavorful base without needing hours of preparation.
- Water: Simple, but essential. The water forms the foundation of your soup, dissolving the soup mix and allowing the flavors to infuse. You can substitute part of the water with chicken or vegetable broth for extra richness.
- Butter: Adds richness and a smooth mouthfeel, helping balance the sharper flavors of the vegetables and seasonings.
- Carrots, Celery, and Onions: These vegetables give the soup texture, color, and sweetness. The trio is classic in soups for a reason-they complement each other perfectly.
- Cooked Chicken: Optional, but it transforms the soup into a fuller meal. It also adds a savory, protein-packed element.
- Garlic Powder & Black Pepper: Just enough to enhance the overall flavor without overwhelming the delicate balance of the soup’s other components.
Expert Tips
To ensure your Mrs. Grass Soup turns out perfectly, here are a few expert tips to keep in mind:
- Low and slow is key: When cooking your soup, avoid boiling it at high heat. You want to let the soup simmer gently so the flavors have time to develop.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: While the Mrs. Grass Soup Mix is flavorful on its own, feel free to experiment with extra herbs or spices, like thyme, rosemary, or a dash of hot sauce for some kick.
- Use homemade broth for richer flavor: If you have time, using homemade chicken or vegetable broth instead of water will elevate the soup’s depth. It makes a noticeable difference in the final taste.
- Don’t overcook the vegetables: Sauté them just enough to release their flavors but not so much that they become mushy.
- Add a splash of cream: For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or milk after the soup is finished cooking. This adds richness without taking away from the broth’s flavor.
Recipe Variations
While Mrs. Grass Soup in its classic form is amazing, there’s always room to get creative. Here are a few variations you can try to mix things up:
- Chicken & Rice: Add a handful of cooked rice to the soup for a heartier meal. The rice will absorb the flavors of the soup and make it even more filling.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and opt for vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini or green beans for more texture.
- Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce. The spice balances the soup’s sweetness and richness perfectly.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in some shredded cheese, like cheddar or Parmesan, for a creamy, cheesy version of this classic soup. The cheese adds a rich, salty depth that complements the broth.
- Noodle Soup: While the traditional Mrs. Grass Soup has noodles in the mix, you can add extra egg noodles or even swap in another type like rice noodles for a different texture.
Final Words
Mrs. Grass Soup isn’t just a meal-it’s a cozy tradition. It’s the kind of soup that brings comfort with every spoonful, and it’s easy to see why it’s a beloved classic. Whether you’re enjoying it as a simple lunch or turning it into a more substantial dinner with variations, this soup never disappoints.
It’s great for busy days, but also perfect for when you need to slow down, savor a meal, and enjoy the simplicity of something homemade. And the best part? You can make it your own by experimenting with extra ingredients and spices.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients In Mrs. Grass Soup?
The main ingredients in Mrs. Grass soup typically include Mrs. Grass soup mix (which contains noodles and seasonings), water or broth, and optional additions like chicken, vegetables, or extra seasonings.
Can I Make Mrs. Grass Soup With Chicken Broth Instead Of Water?
Yes, using chicken broth instead of water adds a richer flavor to the soup, enhancing the overall taste. Many people prefer to use broth for a deeper, more savory result.
Is Mrs. Grass Soup Gluten-free?
No, Mrs. Grass soup is not gluten-free. The noodle mix contains wheat flour, making it unsuitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I Add Extra Vegetables To Mrs. Grass Soup?
Absolutely! You can customize your Mrs. Grass soup by adding vegetables such as carrots, celery, onions, peas, or spinach. These additions can boost the flavor and nutritional value.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Mrs. Grass Soup?
Cooking Mrs. Grass soup typically takes around 10-15 minutes, depending on whether you’re adding additional ingredients like chicken or vegetables. The soup mix itself usually cooks in about 5 minutes.
Can I Add Chicken To Mrs. Grass Soup?
Yes, adding cooked chicken to Mrs. Grass soup is a great way to make it heartier. You can use leftover chicken or cook fresh chicken breasts and shred them before adding them to the soup.
What Is The Origin Of Mrs. Grass Soup?
Mrs. Grass soup was created by the Lipton Company, and it became popular as a convenient, flavorful soup mix that could be easily prepared at home. It has been a staple in many households for decades.
Can I Make A Vegetarian Version Of Mrs. Grass Soup?
Yes, to make a vegetarian version, simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and avoid adding any animal products like chicken. You can also add more vegetables for flavor and texture.
Is Mrs. Grass Soup A Healthy Meal Option?
While Mrs. Grass soup can be a comforting and quick meal, it may not be the healthiest option due to its sodium content and the processed nature of the soup mix. You can make it healthier by using low-sodium broth and adding more fresh vegetables.
Can I Make Mrs. Grass Soup Ahead Of Time And Store It?
Yes, you can make Mrs. Grass soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add extra water or broth to thin it out, as the noodles can absorb liquid over time.