Soup

Everything You Need to Know About Soup for Holiday Potlucks

Option number five, Soups make a great addition to any holiday gathering, whether it be a neighborhood block party or an intimate family dinner. Not only are they tasty and comforting, but making a pot of soup can make a great addition to the menu. So if you're considering soup options for your holiday potluck, consider these helpful tips for making it a big success.

Types of Soups

If you're intending to serve soup at your holiday potluck, you'll need to decide what type of soup it should be. Soups can come in a variety of forms — from creamy and cheesy chowders to hearty bean and vegetable soups. Maybe you'll opt for a traditional chicken or beef-based soup, or something unique like a seafood bisque.

Keeping Soup Warm

You'll need to make sure your soup is well-heated before it's served. If you're transporting it, most soups can last up to four hours at the proper temperature. Keeping it at 140 degrees Fahrenheit or above will help it to stay hot and safe to eat. If you plan to serve the soup within two hours of bringing it, adding hot water just before serving can help, as well as stirring it every 30 minutes.

Chafing Dishes for Serving

If you want to serve your soup from the pot itself, you'll need to find an appropriate heat source. The most common way to serve soup is using a chafing dish. This method of keeping food warm is ideal for the holiday potluck, because it keeps your soup preserved and ready to serve. You'll also need fuel and a flame guard to keep the soup warm to the end.

Using Slow Cookers for Soup

Another option for serving soup at your holiday potluck is to use a slow cooker. This method has the further benefit of freeing up your oven or stovetop for other dishes. The slow cooker is an especially useful tool, as it will keep your soup warm and ready to serve for up to 8 hours. You can even pre-make the soup before the holiday event and leave it on low, making it a fuss-free way to serve soup.

Adding Variety to Your Soup Menu

If you're feeling adventurous you may opt to serve several types of soup at your potluck. Or you could offer some delicious accompaniments like biscotti, crackers, and croutons, which help to make the soup even more delicious. And if you want to save time, consider making a big pot of soup to start and then adding some new ingredients or flavors to create several different types. This will help to keep your menu unique and interesting for your guests.

Making Soup Ahead of Time

Whatever type of soup you're making for your holiday potluck, it's a good idea to make it ahead of time. This will help to ensure it's perfectly seasoned and properly cooked. Plus, it will free up your time for other preparations. And if you're looking to make a large quantity of soup for a lot of guests, consider making it a day or two before to make sure it's just right when you serve it.