Filipino Macaroni Soup

Filipino Macaroni Soup, also known as "Sopas," is a creamy and comforting dish that is loved by many. This hearty soup is packed with flavor and warmth, making it a popular choice for meals, especially during colder days or when someone is feeling under the weather. It combines macaroni pasta with a mix of vegetables and shredded chicken, all cooked in a delicious broth.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Filipino Macaroni Soup is a great idea for several reasons. First, it is simple to prepare and uses common ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Second, the soup is nutritious, combining carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables in one bowl. Lastly, it’s a comforting dish that brings a sense of home and warmth, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

How to Make Filipino Macaroni Soup

Ingredients

• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup cabbage, chopped
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic and onions until fragrant.
3. Add the diced carrots and cook until slightly tender. Pour in the water or chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the cooked chicken, cabbage, and cooked macaroni to the pot. Stir everything well.
5. Pour in the evaporated milk and let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Once the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot in bowls.

How to Serve Filipino Macaroni Soup

Serve Filipino Macaroni Soup hot in bowls. It can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a side. You can also garnish it with a sprinkle of pepper or fresh herbs for extra flavor.

How to Store Filipino Macaroni Soup

To store leftover Filipino Macaroni Soup, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to leave some space in the container as the soup will expand when frozen.

Tips to Make Filipino Macaroni Soup

• Use chicken broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn for added nutrition.
• Adjust the amount of evaporated milk according to how creamy you want the soup to be.

Variation

You can vary the recipe by using different proteins like shrimp or pork. You can also prepare it vegetarian by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth and extra veggies.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use other types of pasta instead of elbow macaroni?

Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like shells or penne.

Q2: Is this soup good for meal prep?

Yes, it stores well in the fridge and reheats nicely, making it great for meal prep.

Q3: Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth and replace the evaporated milk with a plant-based alternative like coconut milk or almond milk.