international soup recipes

Soup is one of the most versatile dishes in the world, offering a rich tapestry of flavors, textures, and cultural traditions.

From hearty and creamy to light and tangy, soups can be a comforting meal during chilly evenings or a refreshing dish on warm days.

Every culture has its own unique take on soup, often showcasing local ingredients and traditional cooking methods passed down through generations.

In this blog, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the globe with 33+ international soup recipes that will not only warm your soul but also expand your culinary horizons.

Whether you’re craving something rich and savory, or light and fresh, these soups offer an array of delicious options to suit every taste.

33+ Delicious International Soup Recipes to Satisfy Every Craving

Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural experience that tells a story through every bowl.

The diverse range of international soups we’ve explored in this article represents the heart and soul of different countries, from the comforting warmth of French onion soup to the spicy, tangy flavors of Thai Tom Yum.

No matter where you’re from or what you’re craving, there’s a soup recipe here for every occasion.

These international soups will not only satisfy your hunger but also inspire you to explore new ingredients and flavors.

So grab a pot, gather your ingredients, and start creating a bowl of comfort from somewhere around the world!

French Onion Soup

French Onion Soup is a classic French dish known for its rich, caramelized onion flavor, topped with toasted baguette slices and melted cheese. The slow cooking of onions brings out their natural sweetness, creating a comforting, savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup is both hearty and elegant, making it a favorite across the globe.

Ingredients:

• 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 6 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/4 tsp dried thyme
• 1 baguette, sliced into rounds
• 2 cups Gruyère or Swiss cheese, shredded

Instructions:

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring frequently, until onions are caramelized and golden brown (about 30-40 minutes).
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute. Deglaze the pot with white wine, if using, and let it simmer until reduced.
3. Add broth, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove the bay leaf.
4. Preheat your oven’s broiler. Place baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast under the broiler until golden brown on both sides.
5. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls. Top with toasted baguette slices and sprinkle generously with cheese.
6. Place bowls under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately.

French Onion Soup is the epitome of comfort food with a touch of sophistication. The blend of caramelized onions and melted cheese creates an irresistible dish that can elevate any meal. Serve this alongside a fresh salad or enjoy it as a standalone delight.

Japanese Miso Soup

Miso soup is a staple in Japanese cuisine, celebrated for its simple yet profound flavors. With a base of dashi (a light broth), miso paste, tofu, and seaweed, this soup is nutritious and soothing. It’s often enjoyed as part of a traditional Japanese meal, offering a balance of umami and healthful ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups dashi (Japanese soup stock)
• 3 tbsp white or red miso paste
• 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
• 1/4 cup wakame seaweed, rehydrated
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions:

1. Heat dashi in a medium-sized pot over medium heat until warm (do not boil).
2. In a small bowl, mix the miso paste with a few tablespoons of warm dashi to create a smooth mixture. Slowly stir this mixture back into the pot.
3. Add the cubed tofu and wakame to the soup and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
4. Remove the pot from heat and garnish the soup with green onions. Serve immediately.

Miso soup is not only a cornerstone of Japanese dining but also a nourishing dish that connects tradition with health. Its simplicity allows the delicate flavors to shine, making it a comforting addition to any meal or a light, standalone option for busy days.

Mexican Tortilla Soup

Mexican Tortilla Soup is a vibrant, zesty dish filled with bold flavors. This soup combines a tomato-based broth with spices, tender chicken, crispy tortilla strips, and toppings like avocado, cheese, and lime. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that reflects the richness of Mexican culinary traditions.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
• 1/2 cup black beans (optional)
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
• 6 corn tortillas, cut into strips
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• Lime wedges and fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and jalapeño, cooking until softened. Stir in chili powder and cumin.
2. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes, bringing to a simmer. Add the chicken, black beans, and corn, cooking for another 10 minutes.
3. In a skillet, heat oil and fry tortilla strips until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
4. Serve soup in bowls, topped with tortilla strips, avocado, cheese, and cilantro. Add a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Mexican Tortilla Soup is a celebration of bold flavors and vibrant textures. It’s a dish that warms the soul and brings people together, whether as a comforting meal at home or the highlight of a festive gathering. Customize it with your favorite toppings for a truly personal touch.

Italian Minestrone Soup

Minestrone is a hearty and flavorful Italian vegetable soup that celebrates the bounty of seasonal produce. With a medley of vegetables, beans, and pasta or rice, this soup offers a comforting and nutritious meal. Minestrone’s versatility makes it a favorite for any time of the year, adapting to the freshest ingredients available.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup pasta (small shapes) or rice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened.
2. Stir in zucchini, green beans, oregano, and basil. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Stir in cannellini beans and pasta or rice. Cook until pasta or rice is tender (about 10 minutes).
5. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

Minestrone soup is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of Italy while nourishing your body. Its vibrant colors and hearty ingredients make it a perfect choice for a family meal, offering comfort and satisfaction in every bowl.

Thai Tom Yum Soup

Tom Yum is a spicy and sour Thai soup bursting with bold flavors. Featuring lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal, and chili, this dish is a tantalizing combination of heat and tang. Typically made with shrimp, Tom Yum can also include chicken or tofu, making it a versatile favorite for lovers of Thai cuisine.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and cut into pieces
• 3 slices galangal (or ginger)
• 3 kaffir lime leaves, torn
• 2 tbsp Thai chili paste (Nam Prik Pao)
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 8 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian)
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1-2 fresh red chilies, sliced
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring the broth to a boil. Add lemongrass, galangal, and lime leaves. Simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Stir in Thai chili paste and mushrooms. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque (about 3 minutes).
4. Stir in fish sauce, lime juice, and chilies. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Tom Yum soup is a delightful symphony of flavors that brings a touch of Thailand to your table. Its spicy and tangy notes awaken the senses, making it a favorite for adventurous palates. Serve it with steamed rice for a complete meal.

Indian Mulligatawny Soup

Mulligatawny is a fragrant and spiced Indian-inspired soup with British colonial roots. It blends lentils, vegetables, and creamy coconut milk, offering a rich, curry-infused broth. This soup is hearty, warming, and perfect for those who crave bold and exotic flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 green apple, peeled and chopped
• 1 tsp curry powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup red lentils
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
2. Add carrots, apple, curry powder, turmeric, and cinnamon. Stir well and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in lentils and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender.
4. Blend the soup until smooth or leave it chunky, depending on preference. Stir in coconut milk and lemon juice.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.

Mulligatawny soup is a fusion of flavors that showcases the depth of Indian spices with a creamy twist. It’s a soul-warming dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with naan bread for a satisfying meal.

Vietnamese Pho

Pho is a beloved Vietnamese noodle soup known for its aromatic broth and fresh, vibrant toppings. Traditionally made with beef or chicken, this dish combines fragrant spices like star anise and cinnamon, rice noodles, and a variety of herbs. Pho is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural experience that’s deeply comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 1 large onion, halved
• 3-inch piece of ginger, halved
• 4 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 star anise
• 3 cloves
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 8 oz rice noodles
• 1/2 lb thinly sliced beef (or cooked chicken)
• Fresh bean sprouts
• Fresh basil, cilantro, and mint
• Lime wedges
• Sliced chili peppers

Instructions:

1. Char the onion and ginger over an open flame or under a broiler until slightly blackened. Add to a large pot with broth, cinnamon, star anise, cloves, fish sauce, and sugar. Simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and divide into serving bowls.
3. Arrange thinly sliced beef or cooked chicken over the noodles.
4. Strain the broth and ladle it over the meat and noodles. The hot broth will cook the beef slices.
5. Serve with bean sprouts, fresh herbs, lime wedges, and chili peppers for garnish.

Pho’s combination of warm, spiced broth and fresh toppings makes it a delightful dish for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, it’s a perfect way to explore Vietnamese cuisine and its emphasis on balance and flavor.

Russian Borscht

Borscht is a vibrant beet soup that hails from Eastern Europe, particularly Russia and Ukraine. Known for its distinctive deep red color, this soup features earthy root vegetables, tangy vinegar, and optional sour cream. Borscht can be served hot or cold, making it versatile and enjoyable year-round.

Ingredients:

• 3 medium beets, peeled and grated
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 head cabbage, shredded
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh dill and sour cream for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and beets until softened.
2. Add vegetable broth, potatoes, and cabbage. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
3. Stir in tomato paste and vinegar. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for another 10 minutes.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh dill and a dollop of sour cream.

Borscht is more than just a soup; it’s a cultural treasure with deep roots in Eastern European traditions. Its earthy flavor and stunning color make it a feast for the senses. Serve with a slice of rye bread for an authentic experience.

Greek Avgolemono Soup

Avgolemono is a creamy and tangy Greek soup made with chicken, rice, and a luscious mixture of eggs and lemon. This comforting soup is a symbol of Greek home cooking, offering a balance of richness and brightness that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup rice (short-grain or medium-grain)
• 2 eggs
• 2 lemons, juiced
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Bring chicken broth to a boil in a large pot. Add rice and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
2. In a bowl, whisk eggs and lemon juice together. Slowly ladle in a cup of hot broth while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
3. Stir the egg mixture back into the pot. Add the shredded chicken and heat gently without boiling.
4. Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh dill or parsley.

Avgolemono soup is a Greek classic that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor make it a unique and memorable dish. Enjoy it as a starter or a satisfying main course with crusty bread on the side.

Spanish Gazpacho

Gazpacho is a refreshing, chilled soup from Spain, perfect for hot summer days. Made primarily from fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and onions, this cold soup is a vibrant blend of garden-fresh vegetables, olive oil, vinegar, and garlic. Gazpacho is a healthy, light meal packed with nutrients and bold flavors.

Ingredients:

• 6 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cups tomato juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
2. Add red wine vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, and tomato juice. Blend again until everything is well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
5. Serve cold, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.

Gazpacho is the perfect soup for warm weather, offering a burst of fresh, crisp flavors. Its light, tangy taste makes it an ideal starter or a light lunch. The best part is its versatility—feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what’s in season or your personal preference.

Lebanese Lentil Soup (Shorbat Adas)

Shorbat Adas, a traditional Lebanese lentil soup, is both hearty and nourishing. Rich in protein and fiber, this soup is made with red lentils, onions, and warming spices like cumin and coriander. Often served with a drizzle of lemon juice, it’s an ideal dish for vegetarians and anyone seeking a comforting meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups red lentils, rinsed
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 6 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened and golden.
2. Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cinnamon. Cook for 1 minute to release the spices’ aromas.
3. Add the lentils and vegetable broth (or water). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and the soup has thickened.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Just before serving, add lemon juice for a tangy finish and garnish with fresh parsley.

Shorbat Adas is a simple yet flavorful soup that brings warmth and comfort. The aromatic spices and lentils provide a nourishing meal, and the touch of lemon adds a refreshing brightness. This soup is ideal for a light dinner or as part of a Middle Eastern-inspired feast.

Turkish Kısır Soup

Kısır, a Turkish-inspired soup, is a refreshing and light alternative to heavier, cream-based soups. It features a base of fine bulgur wheat, tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh herbs, all dressed in a tangy lemon and pomegranate molasses dressing. This vibrant soup offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it ideal for warm-weather dining.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fine bulgur wheat
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp pomegranate molasses (or lemon juice)
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the bulgur wheat in a large bowl. Pour over 1 cup of boiling water, cover, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes until softened. Fluff the bulgur with a fork to separate the grains.
2. Add tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, and mint to the bulgur, stirring to combine.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, pomegranate molasses, red wine vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the bulgur mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
5. Let the soup sit for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Kısır soup offers a delightful combination of textures with its crunchy vegetables and soft bulgur. The tangy dressing and fresh herbs bring everything together in a perfectly balanced dish. It’s an ideal soup for a light lunch or as part of a larger Turkish mezze spread.

Egyptian Molokhia Soup

Molokhia is a traditional Egyptian soup made from jute leaves, a leafy green with a slightly mucilaginous texture, giving the soup its characteristic thickness. It is typically served with rice or bread and is often flavored with garlic, coriander, and lemon juice. This soup is a beloved comfort food in Egypt and throughout the Middle East.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 4 cups fresh or frozen molokhia leaves (jute leaves)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and golden.
2. Stir in the ground coriander, cumin, and cinnamon. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aromas.
3. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the molokhia leaves and shredded chicken, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the leaves are tender and the soup has thickened.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Serve the soup hot, with rice or bread.

Molokhia soup is a unique and hearty dish that offers a blend of earthy flavors and rich textures. The combination of garlic, spices, and tender chicken makes it both satisfying and comforting. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to try something traditional and flavorful from Egyptian cuisine.

Caribbean Callaloo Soup

Callaloo soup is a popular dish in the Caribbean, made with callaloo leaves (similar to spinach) and seasoned with flavorful ingredients like coconut milk, okra, and scotch bonnet peppers. This hearty soup is both spicy and earthy, providing a delightful tropical twist. It’s a comforting and nutritious meal, perfect for warm-weather days or as a warming dish in colder months.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 scotch bonnet pepper, deseeded and chopped
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 cups callaloo leaves (or spinach if unavailable)
• 1/2 cup okra, sliced
• 1 medium potato, diced
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and scotch bonnet pepper, cooking until the onion softens.
2. Add the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a boil.
3. Stir in coconut milk, callaloo leaves, okra, potato, and thyme. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot with a slice of warm bread or over a bowl of rice.

Caribbean Callaloo Soup is a vibrant and filling dish that embodies the essence of the tropics. With its blend of spices, coconut milk, and tender vegetables, it provides a comforting and flavorful experience. It’s perfect as a standalone meal or a hearty side dish.

Korean Kimchi Jjigae (Kimchi Stew)

Kimchi Jjigae is a popular Korean stew made with fermented kimchi, tofu, vegetables, and often pork or beef. It’s a savory and spicy dish that’s beloved for its deep umami flavor, thanks to the rich, tangy kimchi. This stew is perfect for cold days and provides a bold, satisfying meal that showcases the beauty of Korean fermentation.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup kimchi, chopped
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 lb pork belly or beef (optional), sliced
• 1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
• 2 cups water or broth
• 1 block firm tofu, cut into cubes
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
2. Add the pork or beef (if using) and cook until browned.
3. Stir in chopped kimchi and gochugaru, cooking for another 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Add water or broth, soy sauce, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Add tofu cubes and cook for another 5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with green onions.

Kimchi Jjigae is a flavorful, hearty stew that celebrates the bold and tangy flavors of kimchi. It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly evening, with the spicy, savory broth and tender tofu providing comfort in every bite. This dish is an essential part of Korean cuisine and an unforgettable experience for those who enjoy rich, fermented flavors.

Note: More recipes are coming soon