Bored of subtle? Raid you fridge, scour your spices, liberate your herbs and unleash some serious flavour onto your soups, casseroles and stews.
Fresh herbs, spices and vegetables are all great sources of flavour, and each will add its own boost of nutrients, colours and aromas to home cooked dishes. Choosing flavours that will complement and enhance the natural taste of broth based soups, stews and casseroles is essential. Additionally, be sure your choices are natural and low in salt to maximise the health benefits of your recipes. Bold flavours work well in home cooking, while natural thickeners and chunky ingredients will add texture and bite to your creations. Try adding:
- Fresh thyme for a warming and traditional flavour
- Celery, carrots and onion will all give a rich, earthy appeal
- Sweet potato will add texture and can easily be blended to thicken soups
- Fresh tarragon gives a zesty vibe
- A squeeze of lime for a finishing burst of flavour
- Chilli will give a fiery kick
- Chopped chives are great for adding natural seasoning and colour
- Choose coconut milk and lemongrass for an Eastern influence
- A bay leaf will give a rich, comforting flavour
- A pinch of garlic powder offers a punchy flavour-shot
- Great quality Bullshot bone broth will give a deep and natural flavour base
- A handful of leafy greens offer fresh, vibrant flavour
Garnishes, toppings and accompaniments
Soups, casseroles and stews are a really valuable and tasty meal. No longer just a quick-fix from a tin, foodies are rediscovering the beauty of homemade broth based dishes and enjoying them as a filling, nourishing and even gourmet meal. Be creative when it comes to garnishing and topping these delicious dishes – the right accompaniments can add a real wow-factor to your meal:
Colourful, tasty toppings
- Garlic croutons – cubes of bread sautéed with fresh, sliced garlic
- Chopped herbs – fresh, colourful and bursting with vitamins
- Grated cheese – try a handful of flaked parmesan or cheddar
- Chopped chilli – fiery and warming for a powerful kick
- Fried sage leaves – gently fry fresh sage in butter for a flavourful crunch
- Crispy fried shallots – finely chopped and lightly fried in butter
- Grated ginger – punchy, comforting and packed with antioxidants
- Grated orange peel – a perfect way to add subtle sweetness
- Extra virgin olive oil – traditional and indulgent, great with tomato soup
- Sesame seeds – a subtle way to add another layer of flavour
Filling and flavourful accompaniments
- Tortilla chips – for a crunchy treat and great for dipping too
- Halloumi – grilled or lightly friend, halloumi strips are a great side dish
- Seedy, wholemeal bread – a variety of seeds will maximise the nutritional benefit
- Warm, whole-wheat tortillas – cut into triangles for a quick, easy side dish
- Baked potato skins – crispy and filling, add melted cheese for extra indulgence
- Soft, brown rice – pour soup over a bowl of fluffy rice to create a whole new meal
- Boiled eggs – cut in halves, boiled eggs are a filling and colourful accompaniment