Fix-and-Freeze Soups & Stews

September 15, 2011
Iain Bagwell
Warm up and fill up with big-batch soups, stews, and chowders from your freezer.
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Hoppin' John Soup

Recipe: Hoppin' John Soup

New Year’s Day below the Mason-Dixon just wouldn’t be complete without Hoppin’ John Soup on the stove! The smoky flavor in this hearty dish make it a Southern staple, and it pairs perfectly with several popular soul foods. The blend of black-eyed peas and rice is said to bring good fortune in the New Year to those who eat it. While the history of Hoppin’ John Soup is still somewhat unclear, many people believe the peas are meant to symbolize coins. And, as they swell when cooked, the peas represent growing fortune. This timeless soup is often served with cornbread and collared greens; both of these Southern cuisines signify different forms of wealth. Needless to say, a New Year’s Day meal planned around the delectable Hoppin’ John Soup may result in some extra cash, and who wouldn’t welcome a little more spending money (especially after the holidays)?

To begin, simply bring the peas, turkey wings, and 6 cups of water to a boil; cover the ingredients, and reduce the heat to medium. Simmer the mixture for about 45 minutes or until the peas are tender. Be sure to skim any foam from the surface. Next, drain the peas while reserving 1¼ cups of the liquid. Remove the turkey meat from the bones, and chop it up.

Packed with mouthwatering ingredients like smoked turkey, country ham, red pepper, and sweet onion, this nourishing soup is sure to warm you from the inside out. It’s the ideal choice for a holiday meal because it feeds a large crowd, and the Hoppin’ John Soup is ridiculously easy to make. With only 30 minutes of hands-on preparation, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy all the festive celebrations that come with the holidays. This savory soup is going to be your family’s fast favorite – guaranteed!

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Corn-and-Zucchini Queso Chowder

Photo: Iain Bagwell

Recipe: Corn-and-Zucchini Queso Chowder

Try this filling chowder for your next dinner party. Colorful corn and zucchini, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese make for a great presentation and a delicious meal.

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Chicken-and-Brisket Brunswick Stew

Iain Bagwell

Recipe: Chicken-and-Brisket Brunswick Stew

Brunswick stew is always a crowd-pleaser in the South. We combine chicken and tender beef brisket in this hearty version. You won't be able to get enough.

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Queso-Broccoli Potato Chowder

Photo: Iain Bagwell

Recipe: Queso-Broccoli Potato Chowder

Even your kids won't be able to resist this broccoli chowder. Sautéed ham and creamy Cheddar cheese create a savory base.

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Hearty Italian Soup with Parmesan-Pepper Cornbread Biscotti

Photo: Iain Bagwell

Recipe: Hearty Italian Soup with Parmesan-Pepper Cornbread Biscotti

You'll love soaking up the remnants of this soup with crispy, cornbread biscotti. Fresh basil and Italian sausage give the soup its wonderful flavor, and cannellini beans help make the soup even more hearty.

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Queso Potato Chowder

Photo: Iain Bagwell

Recipe: Queso Potato Chowder

This rich and filling chowder is perfect for pulling out of the freezer on cold nights. Poblano peppers add just enough heat, and hash brown potatoes and plenty of cheese give this chowder its characteristic richness.

How To Freeze and Store Soup

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Chicken-Andouille Gumbo with Roasted Potatoes

Photo: Iain Bagwell

Recipe: Chicken-Andouille Gumbo with Roasted Red Potatoes

You can't go wrong with this classic Southern dish to fill you up on chilly nights. We made it even heartier by adding roasted potatoes to the traditional mix of andouille sausage, Cajun seasonings, and veggies.

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Maque Choux Soup

Photo: Hector Sanchez

Recipe: Maque Choux Soup

Run a knife along just-cut cobs to catch sweet corn milk in a bowl. It'll add flavor and creamy texture.

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Curried Chicken Chowder

Photo: Melina Hammer

Recipe: Curried Chicken Chowder

To preserve the textures of meat and vegetables in soup, it's important to cool hot soups completely before freezing. To quickly reduce the temperature, transfer to large, shallow containers (13- × 9-inch baking dishes). Refrigerate uncovered, stirring occasionally, until cool.

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How To Freeze Soup

Photo: Jennifer Davick

How to Freeze and Store Soup

Leftover soup will last up to 3 days in the fridge or up to 1 month in the freezer. Follow these steps on how to freeze soup so you'll be set all winter long.

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