In the world of home cooking, few staples are as versatile and beloved as cream of chicken soup. Often found in canned form in grocery store aisles, cream of chicken soup is a key ingredient in countless recipes—from casseroles and soups to creamy sauces and comfort foods that warm the heart. But what if you could make your own homemade cream of chicken soup mix at home?
Ditching the canned versions and embracing a DIY approach not only empowers you to control the ingredients but also unlocks superior flavor, freshness, and nutritional benefits. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making and using your own cream of chicken soup mix, including detailed ingredient profiles, step-by-step instructions, and an abundance of culinary tips to elevate your home cooking game.
Why Choose Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup Mix?
Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to understand the advantages of making your own cream of chicken soup mix from scratch:
1. Control Over Ingredients
Store-bought canned soups often contain preservatives, artificial flavors, high sodium content, and sometimes additives you might want to avoid. When you make your own mix, you decide exactly what goes in, allowing for cleaner, healthier meals.
2. Customizable Flavor Profile
By controlling the seasoning and ingredients, you can tailor the soup mix to your family’s taste preferences. Want it a little more garlicky, with a hint of thyme or extra creaminess? The choice is yours.
3. Cost-Effective and Convenient
Homemade mixes are economical to prepare in bulk and store, saving you money in the long run. Plus, having a ready mix on hand makes weeknight cooking quick and stress-free.
4. Allergy-Friendly and Dietary Adjustments
If you or your loved ones have dietary restrictions—whether dairy-free, gluten-free, or low-sodium—making your own mix gives you the flexibility to adapt ingredients accordingly.
5. Superior Freshness and Aroma
Nothing compares to the aroma of freshly made soup bases simmering on your stove. Homemade mixes impart a depth of flavor and freshness that canned soups simply cannot match.
Understanding the Ingredients in Cream of Chicken Soup Mix
Core Ingredients:
- All-purpose Flour (1¾ cups)
Flour is the thickening agent in cream of chicken soup. It creates the luscious, creamy texture that is the hallmark of “cream” soups. All-purpose flour is versatile and widely used for roux-based sauces and gravies. It absorbs liquid and, when cooked with fat, forms a smooth base. - Dry Milk Powder (1½ cups)
Dry milk powder adds richness and creaminess without the need for fresh cream or milk. It contains proteins and lactose that help with the flavor and texture. It’s an excellent pantry staple for creating dairy-like flavor and smoothness in dry mixes.
Optional Ingredients to Enhance Flavor and Nutrition
Though the basic mix involves flour and dry milk powder, additional ingredients can transform your soup mix into a flavor powerhouse:
- Chicken Bouillon Powder or Granules
Adds the unmistakable chicken flavor. Choose low-sodium versions to control salt levels. - Onion Powder
Provides subtle sweetness and savory depth. - Garlic Powder
Enhances aroma and complexity. - Dried Herbs (Thyme, Parsley, Sage)
Adds freshness and complexity. - Black Pepper
Balances and accentuates flavors. - Salt
Adjust to taste, mindful of added salt in bouillon.
Incorporating these optional ingredients is a matter of personal preference and recipe demands.
How to Make Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup Mix: Step-by-Step
Ingredients:
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups dry milk powder
- 2 tablespoons chicken bouillon powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and dry milk powder until thoroughly mixed. - Add Flavor Enhancers:
If using, add chicken bouillon powder, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine evenly. - Store Properly:
Transfer your mix into an airtight container or a resealable bag. Store in a cool, dry place away from moisture. This mix can last up to 6 months if stored properly.
How to Use Your Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup Mix
Using your homemade mix is as simple as reconstituting it with water and butter or milk. Here’s how:
Basic Reconstitution:
- Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup homemade cream of chicken soup mix
- 1 cup water or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- Instructions:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Slowly whisk in 1 cup of water or chicken broth.
- Gradually whisk in 1/3 cup of the soup mix.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbly (about 3-5 minutes).
- Use immediately in recipes or as a creamy soup base.
Culinary Uses for Cream of Chicken Soup Mix
Click page 2 for more
