Alright, let’s talk about a recipe that has saved countless busy weeknights, college students’ dinners, and anyone who wants a hearty, homemade soup without standing over a stove for hours: the Traditional 7 Can Soup. Now, before you raise an eyebrow at the name, let me assure you-this is one of the most comforting, flexible, and surprisingly delicious meals you can make. The beauty of this soup is in its simplicity. With just seven cans of pantry staples, you can whip up a filling meal that warms you from the inside out. It’s hearty, it’s versatile, and honestly, it has a bit of a nostalgic charm, reminiscent of those classic ’dump-and-stir’ recipes your grandparents might have loved.
This isn’t just a soup-it’s a conversation starter, a time-saver, and a testament to the fact that great flavor doesn’t always require complex techniques. Ready? Let’s dive in.
Traditional 7 Can Soup Recipe
This is a timeless recipe that balances convenience with flavor. The traditional ’7 Can Soup’ is essentially a medley of vegetables, beans, and tomatoes, all harmoniously simmered together. It’s wonderfully customizable but sticks to the seven-can concept, keeping it easy and quick.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need-broken down so it’s easy to prep:
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) – For that rich, tangy base that gives the soup body and depth.
- 1 can of corn (15 oz) – Sweetness and texture in every bite.
- 1 can of green beans (14.5 oz) – Adds a subtle earthy flavor and a vibrant green color.
- 1 can of black beans or kidney beans (15 oz) – Protein-packed and filling.
- 1 can of peas (15 oz) – Soft, slightly sweet, and helps balance flavors.
- 1 can of chicken or vegetable broth (14.5 oz) – The liquid foundation that brings all the ingredients together.
- 1 can of condensed soup (cream of mushroom or chicken, 10.5 oz) – Adds creaminess and richness.
Optional Extras
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme
- Garlic powder or minced garlic
- Onion powder or sautéed onions
- Crushed red pepper for a hint of heat
Cooking Instructions
Here’s the step-by-step magic:
- Drain and rinse: Open your cans of vegetables and beans. Give the beans a rinse under cold water to remove excess sodium. Corn and peas can stay in their juice.
- Combine in a pot: In a large stockpot, pour in all seven cans. Stir to combine.
- Simmer gently: Turn the heat to medium, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to low. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Season: Taste your soup and season with salt, pepper, and optional spices like paprika, garlic powder, or herbs. Don’t be shy; seasoning makes a huge difference.
- Final touch: If using condensed soup, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of simmering. This ensures creamy consistency without clumping.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and, if you like, sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a touch of elegance.
Ingredient Insights
Why these cans, and why seven? Let’s break it down:
- Tomatoes: They’re the base flavor powerhouse. Rich in umami and acidity, they prevent the soup from tasting flat.
- Corn & Peas: These sweet vegetables balance the savory notes and provide texture contrast.
- Green Beans: Adds subtle crunch and color diversity.
- Beans: These are your protein source. Black beans or kidney beans make the soup hearty and satisfying.
- Broth: Liquid is essential for heat transfer and flavor integration.
- Condensed Soup: Adds creaminess that makes the dish feel indulgent despite being easy and cheap.
The beauty here is simplicity meets balance. You’ve got sweet, savory, earthy, and creamy-all from pantry staples.
Expert Tips
Let’s make sure your 7 Can Soup isn’t just edible, but spectacular:
- Rinse beans and peas: Removes excess sodium and reduces starchiness.
- Simmer, don’t boil: High heat can make vegetables mushy and destroy delicate flavors.
- Adjust thickness: If too thick, add a splash of broth or water. Too thin? Let it simmer uncovered to reduce.
- Layer flavor: Adding garlic, onion, or spices at the start lets flavors deepen over simmering.
- Let it sit: Like most soups, it tastes even better the next day-flavors intensify!
Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Here’s some inspiration:
- Spicy 7 Can Soup: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a can of spicy beans.
- Italian-Inspired: Swap one can of beans for cannellini beans, add Italian herbs and a dash of marinara sauce.
- Meaty Upgrade: Add cooked shredded chicken or diced ham.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Twist: Stick to vegetable broth and plant-based cream soups.
You can literally play with any combination; the ’seven cans’ guideline is flexible. It’s more of a philosophy: simplicity, convenience, and heartiness.
Final Words
At the end of the day, 7 Can Soup is all about comfort, efficiency, and adaptability. It’s not gourmet cuisine, but it’s reliably satisfying. It’s perfect for busy nights, for feeding a family, or for anyone who wants something quick without sacrificing flavor. You can tweak it endlessly, and each version tells a slightly different story-but all of them share the same comforting essence.
FAQs
What Is The Traditional 7 Can Soup Recipe?
The traditional 7 can soup recipe is a simple, hearty soup made by combining seven types of canned ingredients, typically including canned beans, vegetables, tomato products, and meats. The ingredients are cooked together with seasonings to create a flavorful and convenient meal.
What Are The Seven Cans Typically Used In This Recipe?
Commonly used cans include: 1) canned beans (such as kidney or navy beans), 2) canned corn, 3) canned green beans, 4) canned carrots, 5) canned tomatoes, 6) canned potatoes, and 7) canned meat (like chicken or tuna). Variations exist depending on personal preference.
How Do You Prepare The 7 Can Soup?
To prepare, drain and rinse the canned vegetables and beans as desired. Combine all seven ingredients in a large pot, add broth or water, season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs or spices, and simmer over medium heat for 20-30 minutes until fully heated and flavors are blended.
Can This Soup Be Made Vegetarian Or Vegan?
Yes. Replace the canned meat with additional beans, lentils, or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth. Ensure all canned ingredients are free from animal products.
What Seasonings Are Recommended For 7 Can Soup?
Common seasonings include salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried herbs like thyme or oregano, and bay leaves. Some variations may include hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce for added flavor.
How Long Does The Soup Last If Stored In The Refrigerator?
When stored in an airtight container, the soup can last 3-5 days in the refrigerator. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can 7 Can Soup Be Frozen For Later Use?
Yes. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Is It Possible To Adjust The Recipe For Larger Or Smaller Portions?
Absolutely. The recipe is flexible. Simply maintain the ratio of ingredients while scaling the number of cans up or down according to your desired servings.
What Types Of Canned Beans Work Best In This Soup?
Kidney beans, navy beans, pinto beans, and black beans are all popular choices. Mixing multiple types can add texture and flavor. Rinse them if you want to reduce excess sodium.
Can I Add Fresh Ingredients To Enhance The Soup?
Yes. Fresh herbs, onions, garlic, or vegetables can be added to enhance flavor and texture. Adding fresh greens like spinach or kale toward the end of cooking can also boost nutrition.