Aunt Laura’s Oklahoma Soup

🍲 Aunt Laura’s Oklahoma Soup 🍲

Aunt Laura’s Oklahoma Soup is a hearty and delicious dish with a rich history in the heartland of the United States. This savory soup is known for its comforting flavors and is often made in large batches to feed families and friends. Here’s everything you need to know about it:

History:
Aunt Laura’s Oklahoma Soup has deep roots in the culinary traditions of the Midwest. It’s believed to have originated in Oklahoma, a state known for its diverse food culture. This soup was likely created as a way to make use of readily available ingredients, making it a practical and flavorful meal for hardworking families in the region.

Components:
The components of Aunt Laura’s Oklahoma Soup can vary, but the core ingredients typically include:

1. Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is often used as the protein base.
2. Vegetables: A variety of vegetables like carrots, onions, celery, and potatoes are commonly used.
3. Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes or tomato sauce provide a rich tomato flavor.
4. Beans: Many recipes include beans like kidney beans or black beans.
5. Broth: Beef or vegetable broth is used as the soup’s base.
6. Seasonings: Garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and salt and pepper add depth and flavor.
7. Optional Ingredients: Some variations may include corn, green beans, or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce for added complexity.

Steps to Prepare:
Here’s a basic recipe to prepare Aunt Laura’s Oklahoma Soup:

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot, cook the ground beef until it’s browned. Drain any excess fat.

2. Sauté Vegetables: Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.

3. Add Tomatoes: Stir in the canned tomatoes or tomato sauce.

4. Incorporate Beans: Add your choice of beans and mix well.

5. Pour in Broth: Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and stir.

6. Season: Add garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. You can also include any optional ingredients at this stage.

7. Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until all the flavors meld together and the vegetables are tender.

8. Serve: Once your Aunt Laura’s Oklahoma Soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve hot. It’s great with a side of crusty bread or crackers.

Preparation Time:
The time needed to prepare Aunt Laura’s Oklahoma Soup can vary depending on your cooking skills and the size of the batch you’re making. On average, it takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to prepare and cook. However, this soup is one of those dishes that can be even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop, so don’t hesitate to make a big pot and enjoy it over several meals!

Enjoy making and savoring Aunt Laura’s Oklahoma Soup – a warm and comforting dish that brings a taste of the Midwest to your table. 🥣😋

Sure, here’s the nutritional information and some health-related considerations for Aunt Laura’s Oklahoma Soup:

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):

• Calories: 250-300
• Total Fat: 8-10g
• Saturated Fat: 3-4g
• Cholesterol: 30-40mg
• Sodium: 600-800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20-25g
• Dietary Fiber: 5-7g
• Sugars: 4-6g
• Protein: 18-22g

Health Information:

1. Protein: Aunt Laura’s Oklahoma Soup is a good source of protein, primarily from the ground beef. Protein is essential for maintaining and repairing tissues in the body.

2. Fiber: The soup contains a decent amount of dietary fiber, thanks to the vegetables and beans. Fiber is important for digestive health and can help you feel full and satisfied.

3. Fat: While there is some fat in the soup, it can be managed by using lean ground beef and being mindful of the amount of added fats. You can choose to skim any excess fat after browning the beef.

4. Sodium: The sodium content may be relatively high due to the canned tomatoes, broth, and seasonings. If you are watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium or no-salt-added versions of these ingredients.

5. Nutrient Diversity: The soup is rich in various vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and iron, thanks to the assortment of vegetables and beans. These nutrients are essential for overall health and well-being.

6. Calories: Aunt Laura’s Oklahoma Soup is a moderately calorie-dense meal. The calorie content can be adjusted by controlling the portion size and ingredients used.

7. Customization: To make the soup even healthier, consider using extra-lean ground beef, reducing the amount of salt, and adding more vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrients and fiber.

8. Meal Balance: This soup can be part of a balanced meal when accompanied by a side of whole-grain bread or a salad, adding even more nutrients and fiber to your overall meal.

Remember that the nutritional content can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. It’s important to adapt the recipe to your dietary preferences and nutritional needs. Enjoy Aunt Laura’s Oklahoma Soup in moderation as part of a balanced diet for a hearty and nourishing meal. 🍲🥗🍞😊