1. The lazy, five-minute-but-still-decently-tasty, way
2. The no-shortcut, local, organic, <insert buzz word here>, tastier way
9 times out of 10, I’m in the second camp. Today, though, I’m opting for the shortcut because I found a premade soup that I actually find edible. I’m a big fan of Trader Joe’s, especially for people that want something super quick and easy. I always have a stash of Trader Joe’s items in my pantry for those emergency moments where I absolutely have no time to cook and it’s a better option than dropping $8-10 bucks on some so-so take out option.
I don’t really remember consuming that much soup growing up. We had ramen or Hot and Sour soup that was glammed up with fresh vegetables and some form of protein, but the canned variety, not so much. Except for the occassional Chicken and Stars, because having shapes in your food allowed you to play with your food. And, as a result, although I’ve tried, I haven’t been able to bring myself to be one of those “stash-a-can-of-soup-in-your-drawer” people. I’m quite envious because it seems so easy, but I can’t get past the slightly metallic taste that I find plague even the most premium canned soups.
Last night, I found realizing I’d need some soup to carry me through the week and to help kick this cold once and for all, but without the time or energy to cook this much needed soup. As I wandered the aisles of TJ’s, I inevitably found myself by the food samples. I downed the warm dixie cup of soup and waited for that processed soup flavor.
Nothing.
It was actually pretty tasty! I’m not a fan of tomato soups, even fresh. But, the Organic Tomato and Roasted Red Pepper soup, even in it’s boxed, pre made form, makes me rethink that perhaps boxed soups aren’t so bad after all. I wandered down the soup aisle, picked up a box of Butternut Squash soup and Corn and Roasted Pepper soup, and headed for home.
Is it because it wasn’t heated up in the microwave? Or the boxes are that much better than cans? Regardless, I’m happy to have found a winner for those lazy, sick days and so that I can stash a box in my drawer at work for emergencies.
Plus, with a little fresh grated nutmeg, some green onions or chives, and a little creme fraiche or sour cream, it almost looks and tastes like you made it yourself.
But, I’ll still take the homemade soup any day (recipe to follow shortly)…
What’s/what’re your go-to Trader Joe’s item(s)?
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