The Most Saved Soups on Food & Wine: A Culinary Journey Through Comfort Bowls

Introduction

When the temperature drops or when comfort is just what the soul needs, nothing hits the spot quite like a warm bowl of soup. From hearty stews to light broths, soup holds a special place in kitchens around the world. According to Food & Wine’s latest feature on the most saved soups on their platform, it’s clear that home cooks are turning to classic flavors, rich textures, and recipes with soul. In this article, we’ll dive deep into these top-rated soups that have captured the hearts (and taste buds) of food lovers everywhere.

Soups That Stood the Test of Time

1. French Onion Soup: A Timeless Favorite

Topping the list is the beloved French Onion Soup. This iconic dish, made with slow-cooked caramelized onions, savory beef broth, and topped with a crusty slice of baguette smothered in melted Gruyère cheese, remains eternally popular. The soup’s depth of flavor and rustic appeal make it a staple in both fine dining and home cooking.

2. Classic Chicken Noodle Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Nothing says home like a steaming bowl of chicken noodle soup. Food & Wine’s version, rich in shredded chicken, tender egg noodles, and fragrant celery and carrots, has become a go-to recipe for those needing a warm, nurturing meal. Its reputation as a cold-fighter and comfort-deliverer is well earned.

3. Broccoli and Cheese Soup: A Creamy Delight

Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with vegetables, broccoli and cheese soup is one of the most saved for a reason. The Food & Wine recipe balances richness with nutrition, creating a perfect dish for cozy evenings. It’s also considerably popular among those who meal prep or need a quick yet indulgent lunch option.

Global Flavors and Fusion Favorites

4. Tom Yum Soup: Thai Spice in a Bowl

A standout among international offerings, Tom Yum soup brings the flavors of Thailand into American kitchens. The aromatic broth is laced with lemongrass, lime juice, fish sauce, and chili paste, often complemented by shrimp or mushrooms. This soup is adored not only for its bold, tangy-sour taste but also for its health properties and low caloric content.

5. Tortilla Soup: A Mexican-Inspired Treat

Food & Wine’s tortilla soup recipe merges smoky spices, savory chicken, and crunchy tortilla strips with a tomato-laden broth. The most saved version of this soup includes toppings like avocado, queso fresco, and cilantro, giving every spoonful a layered burst of flavor.

Plant-Based and Vegan Selections Shine Bright

6. Lentil Soup: Protein-Packed and Wholesome

Lentils are a superfood — affordable, protein-rich, and perfect for hearty soups. The featured lentil soup recipe from Food & Wine emphasizes Mediterranean flavors, incorporating garlic, cumin, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Vegans and vegetarians alike have made it one of the site’s most saved for its fulfilling nature and balanced nutrition.

7. Roasted Tomato Basil Soup: A Vegan Classic

Simple, satisfying, and timeless. Roasted tomato basil soup garners praise for its rich, velvety texture and vibrant taste. The roasting process deepens the natural sweetness of tomatoes, while fresh basil infuses each spoonful with herbal brightness. Food & Wine’s vegan-friendly version is especially celebrated for delivering flavor that even meat-eaters can’t resist.

Cold-Weather Must-Haves

8. Split Pea and Ham Soup: Smoky and Hearty

Perfect for post-holiday leftovers, split pea and ham soup is ideal for cold climates. The classic pairing of split peas and smoked ham hock builds a thick, satisfying stew-like soup. Food & Wine’s recipe, heavy on the aromatics with onion, bay leaf, and celery, sees repeat saves from users prepping warm winter meals.

9. Beef Barley Soup: Stick-to-the-Ribs Satisfaction

With chunks of tender beef, chewy barley, and earthy vegetables, beef barley soup is as hearty as they come. This rustic recipe has high retention because it feels like a meal in itself. It’s also one of the most freezer-friendly soups, making it a favorite for batch cooking.

Unique and Underrated Soups Gaining Traction

10. Moroccan Harira: A Celebration of Spice and Grains

Harira may surprise those unfamiliar with this North African gem. Known for its complex mix of lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and warming spices like cinnamon and turmeric, it’s a Ramadan mainstay that has now become a year-round favorite. Food & Wine’s take on this traditional dish provides a healthy, satisfying, and culturally rich option for adventurous eaters.

11. Miso Soup with Tofu and Wakame: Umami in Simplicity

Simplicity leads to purity in miso soup. Light yet flavorful, Food & Wine’s version of miso soup includes silken tofu, seaweed (wakame), and scallions simmered in a dashi-based broth accented by miso paste. This Japanese staple is minimalistic yet powerful in taste, often serving as a starter or light main.

Why These Soups Are So Popular

So what drives a soup to become a most-saved recipe? Several key factors contribute to a soup’s popularity:

• Comfort and familiarity: Beloved classics like chicken noodle and French onion appeal to nostalgia and comfort-seeking eaters.
• Nutritional balance: Soups like lentil, miso, and tomato basil provide plant-based nutrition in a bowl.
• Ease of preparation: Many of these recipes require minimal equipment and short prep times, making them ideal for weeknight meals.
• Freezer-friendly: Soups freeze well, making them excellent for meal prepping and avoiding food waste.
• Global appeal: The presence of international flavors like Tom Yum and Harira shows a growing desire for global cuisine at home.

Tips for Making the Best Homemade Soup

Mastering soup-making at home isn’t as difficult as it may seem. Here are a few expert tips:

1. Start with a good base

A foundational mirepoix (onions, carrots, and celery) builds flavor. For Asian or Mediterranean soups, try garlic, ginger, or fennel as aromatic starts.

2. Don’t skimp on seasoning

Salt enhances flavor but don’t forget acid (like lemon juice or vinegar) and herbs to round out the taste.

3. Simmer slowly

Allow time for flavors to meld. Many soups taste even better the next day!

4. Experiment with textures

Add crunchy toppings, fresh herbs, or a swirl of cream to finish your dish with style and contrast.

Conclusion

The most saved soups on Food & Wine are more than just recipes – they are expressions of culture, nostalgia, and creativity in a bowl. Whether you’re looking for a warm hug on a cold night, exploring new global flavors, or preparing a family favorite, there is a soup that speaks to every palate and purpose. Try one (or all) of these beloved soups and discover why they’ve earned their place in the hall of fame of comfort foods.

Ready to stir the pot?

Bookmark your favorite recipes from Food & Wine, stock up your pantry, and let these most saved soups inspire your next meal. It’s time to savor, slurp, and stay cozy.