
Soups and Their Origins
Soup is one of the most comforting and versatile foods out there. Whether you’re looking for something warm and hearty, light and refreshing, or packed with spices and bold flavors, every culture has its own signature take on soup. Some are thick and creamy, others are brothy and nourishing, but they all have one thing in common—they bring people together. Here are 18 incredible soups from all around the world that you need to try.
1. French Onion Soup (France)

This rich, flavorful soup is made by slowly caramelizing onions in butter, then simmering them in a beef broth and topping everything with toasted bread and melted cheese. The gooey, crispy layer of Gruyère cheese is what makes this dish extra special.
2. Miso Soup (Japan)

A staple in Japanese cuisine, miso soup is a light yet deeply flavorful broth made from miso paste, dashi (a type of broth), tofu, and seaweed. It’s packed with probiotics, making it great for digestion and overall health.
3. Tom Yum (Thailand)

This Thai soup is a perfect balance of spicy, sour, and savory. Made with lemongrass, lime leaves, chili, shrimp (or chicken), and mushrooms, it’s a vibrant and aromatic dish that’s both refreshing and warming at the same time.
4. Borscht (Ukraine, Russia, Poland)

Borscht is a bright red beet soup that’s as delicious as it is colorful. Often served hot or cold, it’s made with beets, cabbage, potatoes, and sometimes beef. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy contrast to the earthy flavors.
5. Gazpacho (Spain)

This chilled tomato-based soup is perfect for hot summer days. Made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and garlic, it’s refreshing, light, and packed with bold Mediterranean flavors.
6. Pho (Vietnam)

Vietnam’s most famous soup, pho, is a fragrant beef or chicken broth served with rice noodles, thinly sliced meat, fresh herbs, lime, and chili. The broth is simmered for hours with spices like star anise and cinnamon, creating a deeply flavorful dish.
7. Minestrone (Italy)

Minestrone is a hearty Italian vegetable soup filled with beans, tomatoes, pasta, and seasonal vegetables. It’s often flavored with garlic, basil, and Parmesan cheese, making it both comforting and nutritious.
8. Clam Chowder (USA – New England)

New England clam chowder is a thick and creamy soup made with clams, potatoes, onions, and bacon. Served with oyster crackers or in a bread bowl, this soup is a favorite in coastal regions.
9. Chicken Noodle Soup (USA/Global)

One of the most classic comfort foods, chicken noodle soup is a simple but nourishing dish made with a clear chicken broth, tender chicken pieces, egg noodles, and vegetables. It’s a go-to remedy for colds and chilly days.
10. Sopa de Tortilla (Mexico)

This flavorful Mexican soup is made with a tomato and chili broth, crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese. Some variations include shredded chicken for added heartiness. It’s spicy, savory, and absolutely delicious.
11. Harira (Morocco)

A staple during Ramadan, harira is a Moroccan soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and warming spices like cinnamon and ginger. It’s often finished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.
12. Laksa (Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia)

Laksa is a spicy, coconut milk-based noodle soup that’s popular in Southeast Asia. Made with shrimp or chicken, rice noodles, and a fragrant curry broth, this dish is both creamy and packed with bold spices.
13. Kharcho (Georgia)

Kharcho is a thick, rich Georgian beef soup made with tomatoes, walnuts, rice, and a blend of aromatic spices. It’s known for its deep, hearty flavor and is often enjoyed with fresh coriander and crusty bread.
14. Solyanka (Russia)

Solyanka is a tangy, slightly spicy Russian soup made with pickles, olives, smoked meats, and a tomato-based broth. It has a unique combination of flavors that make it both rich and refreshing.
15. Caldo Verde (Portugal)

This Portuguese soup is a comforting blend of potatoes, kale, and chorizo sausage. It’s simple but incredibly flavorful, making it a favorite in Portugal, especially during the winter months.
16. Avgolemono (Greece)

Avgolemono is a creamy Greek soup made with chicken broth, rice, eggs, and lemon juice. The eggs give it a smooth, velvety texture, while the lemon adds a fresh and tangy kick.
17. Mulligatawny (India/UK)

This British-Indian fusion soup is a spiced, creamy lentil soup flavored with curry powder, coconut milk, and sometimes chicken. It originated during the British colonial period and remains a popular dish today.
18. Ramen (Japan)

Ramen is more than just instant noodles! Traditional ramen is a rich, flavorful broth served with wheat noodles, sliced pork, eggs, seaweed, and green onions. Variations like shoyu (soy sauce-based), miso, and tonkotsu (pork bone broth) make this dish endlessly customizable.
Final Thoughts
Soup is one of the most universal foods, and every culture has its own way of making it delicious. Whether you prefer thick and creamy soups, light broths, or spicy, aromatic flavors, there’s a soup out there for you.