Don't Love Watery Soup? 5 Tips To Make Thick Soup

By Niveditha Kalyanaraman

December 8th, 2023

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Making soup is a bit of an art, and the right texture and consistency could be the difference between a good bowl and a delicious one. But, we've all been there. Maybe you've accidentally added too much liquid, or maybe you're looking at the website's photographs and your soup just doesn't have the same texture. Here are 5 tips to make thick soup.

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Flour Or Cornstarch

Flour and cornstarch are both pantry staples, and they work great as thickening agents thanks to their water absorption abilities, which increase when heated. Not only is it as simple as making a quick slurry, this method also won't impact the flavor of the soup.

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Roux

Roux is typically the first step in making gumbo. But as a thickening agent, it can be added at any stage. A roux imparts a nutty, buttery flavor that you can't get with cornstarch or other thickening methods.

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Dairy

The best options for thickening soup are cream or half and half. Plain yogurt or even freshly grated cheese works well and adds an extra layer of tangy, salty flavor.

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Blending

Blending a portion of the soup creates an emulsion, especially if it has starch in it like potatoes or beans. This is a quick hack, especially if you're vegan, because it adds creaminess without needing special substitutes or ingredients.

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Starch

Adding starchy foods like rice, potatoes, pasta, and beans can also help thicken up a soup while adding texture and body. As they cook, they release starches, creating a thicker consistency.

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