Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup hardtack, broken into small pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large soup pot
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large soup pot, sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, and dried thyme. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and add the hardtack pieces. Simmer for 20-30 minutes until the hardtack has softened and the soup has thickened.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat to sauté vegetables, then low heat to simmer soup.
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 200
- Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Hardtack can be substituted with any hard bread or cracker.
- Chicken or vegetable broth can be substituted with water and bouillon cubes.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or beef for a heartier soup.
- Add other vegetables such as potatoes, corn, or green beans.
Tips and tricks:
- To soften hardtack faster, soak it in water for a few minutes before adding it to the soup.
- Adjust the amount of broth to your desired consistency.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a large soup bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme.
Pairings:
- Crusty bread or rolls.
Suggested side dishes:
- Salad or roasted vegetables.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to store leftovers properly in the refrigerator and reheat to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Food history:
- Hardtack was a staple food for soldiers during the Civil War and World War I.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, hearty, and comforting.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
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Taste: Savory, Hearty, Vegetable, Earthy, Vegetable-Forward