Soups On!

The History of Soup

Soup is thousands of years old, found in cultures around the world that have been using variations of the hot food for centuries. Many sources say soup became common around 5,000-9,000 years ago, however recent experts now say otherwise. Ofer Bar-Yosef, a Harvard University archaeologist, reported in Science Magazine last year that pots found in caves were found to have been used over fire some 20,000 years ago in China.

Other researchers have backed that it is likely that humans were concocting soup at least 25,000 years ago in some parts of the world. This may have been found in the form of bone broth, or in a form of watery gruel. The word soup likely comes from the bread the gruel was poured over, which was also known as “sop” or “sup.”

Each culture around the world has created a different version of soup based on ingredients on hand, however the basics of soup remains the same. In some places, gruel is still a staple food, utilizing starchy foods like legumes or root vegetables.

Soup involves quicker cooking time, due to items submerged in boiling water. The water becomes flavorful with ingredients it is prepared with, and the liquid becomes thickened with grains and starch. Soup is also a popular way of not letting food go to waste, since animal bones, and other inedible, yet flavorful, items can be added and enjoyed via the broth.

Soup became popular in high society in the 18th century in Paris, when bouillion and consommé were served in restaurants and bistros. As we advanced into the 19th century around the world, soup was made to be convenient and portable for cowboys on the move. Canned and dehydrated soups were invented, keeping soldiers warm and fed, and are now a popular item in supermarkets today.

Ready to warm up with some delicious Timoti’s Seafood Stew or New England Clam Chowder? We have you covered in all 3 locations! Come and get it – soups on!