It’s officially the star of soup season! As the temperatures drop and we find ourselves craving something warm and comforting, soups from around the world become the go-to. But what if I told you there’s a way to elevate your bowl of goodness even further? Yes, I’m talking about pairing your favourite soup with a glass of wine! It’s not just a trend, it’s a tradition in many cultures. So, grab your spoon, and let’s explore five traditional soups from around the globe and the wines that make them even more delightful.
1. French Onion Soup (France)
A classic that’s as French as the Eiffel Tower itself. French onion soup is rich with caramelised onions and topped with a cheesy crouton. It’s hearty, it’s savoury, and it’s practically begging for a wine pairing.
Wine pairing: Opt for a white like Chardonnay, specifically a lightly oaked one. The buttery texture of Chardonnay complements the sweetness of the onions and the nuttiness of the cheese. If you prefer red, a Pinot Noir works too, as its light tannins won’t overpower the delicate broth.
Fun fact: French onion soup was traditionally served as a hangover cure – maybe it was the wine pairing all along!
2. Miso Soup (Japan)
This delicate, umami-packed broth with tofu and seaweed is a staple in Japanese cuisine. Light but flavourful, it pairs surprisingly well with wine.
Wine pairing: Sake is the traditional companion, but if you want to try wine, a crisp Riesling or Grüner Veltliner does wonders. The light acidity cuts through the richness of the miso, enhancing those earthy flavours.
Fun fact: Miso soup has been around for over 1,000 years, and it’s believed to boost the immune system – a perfect partner for colder months!
3. Tom Yum (Thailand)
Spicy, sour, and aromatic, Tom Yum is a flavour explosion in a bowl. This Thai soup, filled with lemongrass, lime, and chillies, needs a wine that can stand up to its bold character.
Wine pairing: A Gewürztraminer or Sauvignon Blanc is ideal here. The floral and citrus notes of these whites mirror the fragrant herbs in the soup, while their slight sweetness balances out the spiciness.
Pro tip: Chill your wine well – it’ll help tame the heat of the chilli!
4. Borscht (Eastern Europe)
Bright, earthy, and satisfying, Borscht is a beetroot-based soup often served with a dollop of sour cream. It’s both sweet and tangy, which makes it an interesting pairing challenge.
Wine pairing: A Merlot or Beaujolais complements the earthiness of the beets. These reds have soft tannins and fruity undertones that enhance the complex flavours of the soup.
Fun fact: Borscht isn’t just Russian! It’s popular across Eastern Europe, from Poland to Ukraine, each with its own twist.
5. Minestrone (Italy)
A hearty vegetable soup with beans, tomatoes, and pasta, Minestrone is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a bit of everything in a bowl, which means the wine should be equally versatile.
Wine pairing: A light Chianti is perfect, as it has enough acidity to cut through the richness of the beans and vegetables without overpowering them. Alternatively, a Prosecco works for a lighter, bubbly contrast.
Fun fact: Minestrone means “big soup” in Italian, and it dates back to ancient Roman times when it was made from whatever ingredients were on hand.
So there you have it! Whether you’re curling up with a French classic or venturing into exotic flavours with Tom Yum, there’s a wine for every soup. Next time you ladle out your favourite bowl, don’t forget to pop open a bottle – it’s the perfect way to turn soup season into a true culinary experience. Cheers!