Classic European Soups You Should Definitely Try

Soups have long been a cornerstone of European culinary tradition. Whether it’s a cozy winter dinner or a starter for a formal meal, soups bring warmth, comfort, and deep flavor. Today, we’ll explore three beloved European soups — French Onion Soup, Italian Minestrone, and Hungarian Goulash Soup — that are rich in history and taste. Each recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for adding variety to your home-cooked meals.

1. French Onion Soup (France)

Flavor Profile: Savory, rich, and slightly sweet

Ingredients:

  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp flour
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Baguette slices
  • 1 cup grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese

Instructions:

  1. Melt butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the onions and sugar, cook slowly, stirring often, until deeply caramelized (about 30–40 minutes).
  3. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
  4. Pour in wine (if using) and scrape the bottom of the pot.
  5. Add beef broth, bring to a simmer, and cook for 20 more minutes.
  6. Toast baguette slices until crisp. Place on top of the soup in heatproof bowls, sprinkle with cheese, and broil until melted and bubbly.

Serving Tip: Best served hot as a starter or light dinner.


2. Italian Minestrone (Italy)

Flavor Profile: Hearty, vegetable-rich, lightly tomato-based

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup green beans, chopped
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (400g)
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 can cannellini or kidney beans (400g), drained
  • 1/2 cup small pasta (e.g., ditalini)
  • Salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano)
  • Optional: Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5–7 minutes.
  2. Add zucchini and green beans, stir for another 3 minutes.
  3. Pour in the tomatoes and broth, bring to a boil.
  4. Add beans and pasta, season with herbs, salt, and pepper.
  5. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
  6. Serve hot with grated Parmesan on top.

Serving Tip: This soup gets even better the next day — ideal for meal prep!


3. Hungarian Goulash Soup (Hungary)

Flavor Profile: Spicy, smoky, hearty

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 500g beef chuck, cut into small cubes
  • 2 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp caraway seeds
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 medium potatoes, diced
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • 1.5 liters beef broth
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat oil in a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
  2. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides.
  3. Stir in paprika, tomato paste, and caraway seeds.
  4. Add the bell pepper, potatoes, carrot, and broth.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5–2 hours until the beef is tender and soup is thick.
  6. Adjust seasoning before serving.

Serving Tip: Serve with crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream.


Final Thoughts

These soups showcase the diversity of European cooking — from the deep caramel notes of French Onion Soup to the veggie-packed heartiness of Minestrone and the paprika-spiced warmth of Hungarian Goulash. Whether you’re cooking for comfort or to impress guests, these classic recipes will warm both body and soul.