How Do You Fix Bitter Taste in Soup? 7 Proven Methods to Save Your Recipe

Cooking soup is an art that brings warmth and comfort, but sometimes, despite your best efforts, a soup can turn out bitter. Cooking soup is an art that brings warmth and comfort, but sometimes, despite your best efforts, a soup can turn out bitter. If you’ve ever wondered, *how do you fix bitter taste in soup?*, you’re not alone. Understanding the right techniques is essential when you ask yourself, *how do you fix bitter taste in soup?* effectively.. Bitterness in soup can stem from various ingredients and cooking methods. Fortunately, there are effective strategies to salvage your dish and restore its delicious flavor. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore seven proven methods to eliminate bitterness from your soup, ensuring every bowl is perfectly balanced and satisfying.

Understanding the Causes of Bitter Taste in Soup

Before diving into solutions, it’s essential to understand what causes bitterness in soup. Common culprits include overcooked vegetables, certain greens like kale or spinach, and ingredients like tomatoes or broths that can become bitter when reduced too much. Additionally, using too much garlic, onions, or spices can contribute to an unwanted bitter taste.

By identifying these factors, you can better address how do you fix bitter taste in soup? in your culinary practices.

For more insights on ingredient-specific bitterness, visit Why Does My Butternut Squash Soup Taste Bitter?.

Common Ingredients That Cause Bitter Flavors in Soup

Recognizing these common ingredients is crucial when you’re trying to figure out how do you fix bitter taste in soup?.

1. Greens: Kale, spinach, and other dark leafy greens are nutritious but can impart a bitter flavor if not prepared correctly.
2. Tomatoes: While tomatoes add depth and acidity, they can also become bitter if overcooked or if too many are used.
3. Broths and Stocks: Homemade broths are flavorful, but simmering them for too long can extract bitter compounds from the bones and vegetables.
4. Spices and Herbs: Garlic, onions, and certain spices like cumin or fenugreek can contribute to bitterness if used excessively.
5. Vegetables: Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts can turn bitter when overcooked.

Cooking Techniques That Lead to Bitter Taste in Soup

Adjusting these cooking techniques is a fundamental step in answering how do you fix bitter taste in soup?.

1. Overcooking: Prolonged cooking can break down vegetables excessively, releasing bitter compounds.
2. High Heat: Cooking at too high a temperature can cause ingredients to scorch, leading to bitterness.
3. Improper Balancing: Failing to balance flavors with sweetness, acidity, or umami can make bitterness more pronounced.
4. Not Skimming Fat: In broths, not skimming off the fat can leave bitter residues in the soup.

Understanding these causes is the first step in preventing and fixing bitterness in your soups.

1. Sweeten the Pot to Eliminate Bitterness in Soup with Natural Sweeteners

One of the most effective ways to counteract bitterness is by introducing sweetness. Natural sweeteners can balance the flavors without overpowering the soup’s inherent taste.

Why Sweetness Helps Fix Bitter Taste in Soup

Adding sweetness is one of the simplest ways to address how do you fix bitter taste in soup? effectively.

How to Implement Sweeteners to Reduce Bitterness in Soup

• Sugar or Honey: Start with a small amount, like a teaspoon of sugar or honey, and adjust to taste. Be cautious not to over-sweeten, which can alter the soup’s intended flavor.Example: If your vegetable soup tastes bitter due to overcooked kale, add a teaspoon of honey and stir well to balance the flavors.
• Carrots: Adding finely grated carrots can naturally sweeten your soup. Carrots release their sugars during cooking, providing a subtle sweetness without additional ingredients.Example: In a tomato-based soup that’s turned bitter, adding grated carrots can mellow the acidity and bitterness.
• Sweet Potatoes: Incorporate sweet potatoes for both sweetness and a creamy texture. Sweet potatoes add depth to the soup while balancing bitter notes. For example, in a bitter butternut squash soup, adding sweet potatoes can enhance the natural sweetness and improve the texture. Additionally, their vibrant flavor complements other ingredients, creating a more harmonious and satisfying dish.

Tips for Sweetening

• Add Gradually: Start with a small amount of sweetener and taste as you go to avoid overshooting the sweetness.
• Balance Other Flavors: Ensure that the addition of sweetness doesn’t make the soup too sweet by balancing it with acidity or salt.
• Use Natural Sweeteners: Opt for natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar over refined sugars for a healthier option. Additionally, these natural sweeteners provide a subtle, nuanced sweetness that complements the dish without overpowering it. Moreover, they can enhance the overall flavor profile while adding a touch of richness.

2. Add Acidic Ingredients to Neutralize Bitter Taste in Soup

Acid can help neutralize bitterness by balancing the pH levels in your soup. Introducing acidic components, such as lemon juice, vinegar, or tomatoes, can brighten flavors and mask bitter notes effectively. Additionally, a small amount of acid can enhance the overall flavor profile without overpowering the dish.

Why Acidity Helps Balance Bitter Flavors in Soup

Incorporating acidic ingredients is a proven method on how do you fix bitter taste in soup?.

How to Add Acidic Ingredients to Fix Bitter Soup

• Lemon Juice or Vinegar: A splash of lemon juice or a mild vinegar like apple cider can brighten flavors. Start with a teaspoon and adjust according to taste.Example: If your vegetable broth is bitter, add a teaspoon of lemon juice to lift the flavors without making the soup overly tangy.
• Tomatoes: Fresh or canned tomatoes add acidity and depth. Tomatoes are a natural source of acidity and can enhance the overall flavor profile.Example: In a bitter spinach soup, adding diced tomatoes can introduce acidity that balances the bitterness.
• Wine: A small amount of white or red wine can enhance complexity. Wine adds both acidity and depth, complementing other flavors in the soup.Example: In a roasted vegetable soup that’s too bitter, a splash of white wine can add a nuanced acidity that balances the bitterness.

Tips for Adding Acidity

• Add Slowly: Introduce acidic ingredients gradually, tasting as you go to avoid overpowering the soup.
• Combine with Other Methods: Acid can work synergistically with sweetness or umami to create a well-rounded flavor.
• Choose the Right Acid: Depending on the soup, select an acid that complements other ingredients (e.g., balsamic vinegar for a tomato soup, lemon juice for a green soup).

3. Incorporate Dairy Products to Mellow Bitter Flavors in Soup

Dairy can mellow out harsh flavors and add a rich, creamy texture to your soup. The fat and proteins in dairy help to smooth out bitterness and enhance the soup’s overall mouthfeel. Additionally, incorporating ingredients like yogurt, cream, or cheese can create a more luxurious and well-rounded flavor.

Why Dairy Works to Reduce Bitterness in Soup

Using dairy is an excellent strategy when considering how do you fix bitter taste in soup?.

Dairy products can coat the palate, reducing the perception of bitterness while adding richness and depth. Additionally, ingredients like cream, milk, or cheese can create a smooth texture and enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish. Moreover, they help balance strong or harsh flavors, resulting in a more harmonious taste.

How to Add Dairy Products to Fix Bitter Soup

• Cream or Half-and-Half: Stir in a bit of cream to smooth out bitterness. Cream adds a luxurious texture and subtle sweetness that can counterbalance bitter flavors.Example: In a bitter mushroom soup, adding a splash of heavy cream can mellow the flavors and create a creamy consistency.
• Butter: Adding a tablespoon of butter can provide a luxurious finish. Butter adds fat, which helps to mask bitterness and enrich the soup.Example: In a kale and bean soup that’s too bitter, stirring in a tablespoon of butter can round out the flavors.
• Yogurt: A dollop of plain yogurt adds tanginess and creaminess. Yogurt is a versatile dairy product that can lighten the soup while balancing bitterness.Example: In a bitter bone broth, adding a spoonful of yogurt can introduce tanginess that complements the rich flavors.

Tips for Incorporating Dairy

• Choose Unsweetened Options: Use unsweetened dairy products to avoid adding unwanted sweetness to the soup.
• Temper Dairy: To prevent curdling, especially in hot soups, temper dairy by gradually mixing in a small amount of soup before adding it to the pot.
• Consider Dietary Restrictions: For those who are lactose intolerant or prefer dairy-free options, alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk can be used to achieve similar results.

4. Use Umami-Rich Ingredients

Introducing umami-rich ingredients plays a significant role in how do you fix bitter taste in soup?.

Umami enhances the savory aspect of your soup, distracting from bitterness. Introducing umami-rich ingredients can add depth and complexity, making the soup more satisfying and less likely to highlight bitter flavors. Additionally, options like tomatoes, seaweed, or nutritional yeast can contribute umami while complementing other ingredients.

Why Umami Works

Umami, often described as the fifth taste, provides a savory depth that can mask bitterness and elevate the overall flavor profile of the soup. Additionally, ingredients like soy sauce, miso, mushrooms, or parmesan cheese can enhance umami, creating a richer and more satisfying dish. Moreover, incorporating umami elements can bring balance and complexity to the soup.

How to Add Umami

• Soy Sauce or Tamari: A splash can deepen flavors. Soy sauce adds both saltiness and umami, enhancing the soup without making it overly salty.Example: In a bitter vegetable soup, adding a teaspoon of soy sauce can introduce umami that balances the bitter notes.
• Mushrooms: Fresh or dried mushrooms add a rich, earthy taste. Mushrooms are naturally high in umami, making them a great addition to soups needing flavor enhancement.Example: Adding sautéed mushrooms to a bitter butternut squash soup can provide an earthy depth that counteracts the bitterness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan introduces a salty, umami kick. Parmesan can be stirred into the soup or used as a garnish to add flavor complexity.Example: In a bitter broccoli soup, sprinkling grated Parmesan can enhance the savory flavors and reduce the perception of bitterness.

Tips for Using Umami-Rich Ingredients

• Start Small: Begin with a small amount of umami-rich ingredients and adjust according to taste to prevent overpowering the soup.
• Combine with Other Methods: Umami works well alongside sweetness and acidity to create a balanced flavor profile.
• Explore Diverse Sources: Umami can be sourced from various ingredients like miso paste, anchovies, or nutritional yeast, offering versatility in flavor enhancement.

5. Dilute with Broth or Stock

Sometimes, simply diluting your soup can reduce bitterness. Increasing the volume of the soup with additional broth or stock can balance the flavors and make the bitterness less pronounced. Additionally, this method allows other ingredients to shine while softening the intensity of bitter notes. Moreover, it’s an easy and effective way to adjust the flavor without altering the overall recipe too much.

Why Dilution Works

Dilution spreads out the bitter compounds, lowering their concentration and making them less noticeable in the overall flavor profile. Additionally, adding more liquid, such as water or broth, helps to balance the flavors without overpowering other ingredients. Moreover, this simple adjustment can significantly improve the harmony of the dish.

How to Dilute

• Add More Broth: Increase the volume of broth or stock to balance flavors. Choose a broth that complements the soup’s base to maintain consistency.Example: If your lentil soup is too bitter, adding more vegetable or chicken broth can dilute the bitterness and enhance the soup’s overall flavor.
• Vegetable or Chicken Stock: Depending on your soup base, choose an appropriate stock to maintain consistency. Homemade stocks are ideal, but high-quality store-bought options work well too.Example: In a bitter bone broth, adding more chicken stock can lighten the bitterness while maintaining the soup’s richness.

Tips for Diluting

• Adjust Seasoning: After diluting, taste the soup and adjust seasoning as necessary. You may need to add more salt, herbs, or spices to maintain the desired flavor.
• Maintain Consistency: Ensure that the added broth doesn’t make the soup too thin. Gradually add broth and monitor the soup’s consistency.
• Choose Complementary Flavors: Select a broth that enhances rather than competes with the existing flavors in your soup.

6. Introduce Fat

Fats can coat the palate, mitigating bitter notes and adding richness. Introducing healthy fats into your soup, such as olive oil, avocado, or coconut milk, can balance flavors and improve the overall mouthfeel. Additionally, these fats enhance the soup’s texture, creating a creamier and more satisfying experience.

Why Fat Works

Fat helps to mellow harsh flavors by coating the tongue, reducing the perception of bitterness, and adding a smooth, rich texture to the soup. Additionally, fats like butter, cream, or olive oil enhance the overall flavor profile, making the dish more satisfying. Moreover, incorporating fats at the right stage of cooking allows them to blend seamlessly with other ingredients.

How to Add Fat

• Olive Oil: Drizzle some extra virgin olive oil for both flavor and fat. Olive oil adds a fruity, rich flavor that complements many soups.Example: In a bitter tomato soup, adding a drizzle of olive oil can enhance the soup’s richness and balance the bitterness.
• Coconut Milk: For a dairy-free option, coconut milk adds creaminess and sweetness. Coconut milk works well in soups with a base that complements its flavor.Example: In a bitter curry soup, adding coconut milk can provide a creamy texture and balance the bitterness with its natural sweetness.
• Avocado: Adding avocado can provide a smooth texture and healthy fats. Avocado adds creaminess and a subtle flavor that blends well with many soups.Example: In a bitter green soup, blending in avocado can create a creamy consistency while reducing the perception of bitterness.

Tips for Introducing Fat

• Choose Quality Fats: Opt for high-quality fats like extra virgin olive oil or grass-fed butter for the best flavor and health benefits.
• Add Gradually: Introduce fats slowly, tasting as you go to achieve the desired balance without making the soup too greasy.
• Consider Texture: Different fats can affect the soup’s texture. Cream and butter add smoothness, while olive oil adds richness without altering the texture significantly.

7. Adjust Cooking Times and Techniques

Prevention is better than cure. Adjusting how you cook your ingredients can prevent bitterness from developing in the first place, saving you time and effort later. For example, blanching vegetables before adding them to your dish can reduce their natural bitterness. Additionally, controlling cooking times and temperatures ensures that flavors remain balanced and bitterness is kept at bay.

Why Cooking Techniques Matter

Proper cooking techniques can minimize the release of bitter compounds from ingredients, ensuring a well-balanced soup from the start. For instance, sautéing vegetables before adding them to the soup can mellow their flavors. Additionally, avoiding overcooking bitter ingredients like greens prevents excessive bitterness from developing.

How to Adjust Cooking Times and Techniques

• Avoid Overcooking Vegetables: Especially those prone to bitterness like greens and cruciferous vegetables. Overcooking can break down the vegetables excessively, releasing bitter compounds.Example: When making a kale soup, add the kale towards the end of the cooking process to prevent it from becoming overly bitter.
• Blanch Bitter Greens: Briefly blanching bitter greens before adding them to the soup can reduce their bitterness. Blanching involves boiling the greens for a short period and then plunging them into ice water.Example: Blanching spinach before adding it to a soup can remove some of its bitter taste, resulting in a milder flavor.
• Balance Flavors Early: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process to prevent bitterness from setting in. Addressing flavor imbalances early can save you from having to make significant adjustments later.Example: Regularly tasting your soup as it cooks allows you to identify and correct bitterness before it becomes pronounced.
• Use Proper Heat Levels: Cooking at medium or low heat can prevent ingredients from scorching, which can introduce bitter flavors.Example: Simmering your soup gently ensures that ingredients cook evenly without burning, maintaining a balanced flavor profile.

Additional Cooking Tips

• Sauté Aromatics Properly: Sauté onions, garlic, and other aromatics until they are softened and fragrant, but not browned. Over-browning can lead to bitterness.Example: Sautéing onions until translucent rather than golden can prevent the soup from acquiring a bitter taste.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients are less likely to be bitter compared to older or overripe ones. Ensure your vegetables and herbs are fresh for the best flavor.Example: Fresh herbs added towards the end of cooking can enhance flavor without introducing bitterness.
• Monitor Reduction Levels: While reducing the soup can concentrate flavors, over-reduction can intensify bitterness. Keep an eye on the soup’s consistency and adjust heat accordingly.

Additional Methods to Fix Bitter Taste in Soup

Beyond the seven proven methods, there are other techniques you can employ to further balance flavors and eliminate bitterness. For example, roasting ingredients can enhance their natural sweetness, while seasoning with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can mask bitter notes. Additionally, layering flavors gradually during cooking allows for better control and balance in the final dish.

Incorporate Starch

Adding starchy ingredients like potatoes, rice, or pasta can absorb some of the bitter compounds, mellowing the overall flavor. Additionally, these ingredients contribute to a heartier texture, making the dish more satisfying. Furthermore, they can act as a neutral base, allowing other flavors to shine while reducing bitterness.

• Potatoes: Potatoes are excellent at absorbing excess bitterness without altering the soup’s flavor significantly.Example: In a bitter vegetable soup, adding diced potatoes and simmering until tender can help reduce bitterness.
• Rice or Pasta: Small pasta shapes or rice can be added to soups, providing substance and reducing bitterness.Example: Adding orzo to a bitter broth-based soup can dilute the bitter taste while adding texture.

Add Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs can introduce bright, fresh flavors that counteract bitterness.

• Basil, Parsley, or Cilantro: These herbs add freshness and a burst of flavor that can distract from bitter notes.Example: Chopping fresh parsley and sprinkling it over a bitter soup can enhance the overall flavor and add a fresh element.

Introduce a Bit of Salt

Sometimes, a lack of seasoning can make bitterness more noticeable. Adding a touch of salt can enhance other flavors and mask bitterness.

• Sea Salt or Kosher Salt: Use high-quality salts for the best flavor enhancement.Example: If your soup is slightly bitter, adding a pinch of sea salt can elevate the flavors and reduce the perception of bitterness.

Incorporate Aromatics

Aromatics like ginger, celery, or bell peppers can add layers of flavor that help balance bitterness. Additionally, their natural fragrance and unique taste profiles enhance the overall complexity of the dish. Incorporating these ingredients early in the cooking process allows their flavors to meld and create a more harmonious balance.

• Ginger: Adds a zingy, spicy note that can mask bitterness.Example: Adding minced ginger to a bitter vegetable soup can introduce a fresh, vibrant flavor that balances bitterness.
• Celery: Provides a subtle, savory flavor that complements many soups.Example: Incorporating finely chopped celery into a bitter broth can add depth and reduce bitterness.

Practical Examples: Fixing Bitterness in Common Soups

Understanding how to apply these methods in real-world scenarios can help you tackle bitterness effectively. For instance, when preparing a bitter vegetable soup, you might combine sweeteners and acidic ingredients to balance the flavors. Additionally, experimenting with umami-rich components or fats can further enhance the dish. By practicing these techniques in various recipes, you’ll gain confidence in creating well-balanced and flavorful meals.

Example 1: Bitter Tomato Soup

Problem: Your tomato soup turned out bitter due to overcooked tomatoes and excessive seasoning.

Solution:

1. Sweeten the Pot: Add a teaspoon of honey to balance the acidity and bitterness.
2. Add Acidic Ingredients: A splash of balsamic vinegar can enhance the soup’s depth.
3. Incorporate Dairy: Stir in some heavy cream to mellow the flavors.
4. Use Umami-Rich Ingredients: Add a tablespoon of soy sauce for extra depth.
5. Dilute with Broth: If the bitterness persists, add more vegetable broth to dilute the bitter compounds.
6. Introduce Fat: Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil to add richness.
7. Adjust Cooking Times: Ensure the soup simmers gently and doesn’t reduce too much.

Final Touch: Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to enhance the savory flavors.

Example 2: Bitter Kale and White Bean Soup

Problem: Your kale and white bean soup has a pronounced bitter taste from overcooked kale.

Solution:

1. Blanch the Kale: If not already done, blanch the kale to remove some bitterness.
2. Sweeten the Pot: Add grated carrots to introduce natural sweetness.
3. Add Acidic Ingredients: A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the soup.
4. Incorporate Dairy: Stir in a dollop of yogurt for creaminess.
5. Use Umami-Rich Ingredients: Add sun-dried tomatoes for extra umami.
6. Dilute with Broth: Pour in additional vegetable broth to balance flavors.
7. Introduce Fat: Add a tablespoon of butter to enrich the soup.

Final Touch: Top with croutons and fresh parsley to add texture and freshness.

Example 3: Bitter Bone Broth

Problem: Your bone broth has a bitter undertone from over-reduced bones and vegetables.

Solution:

1. Dilute with Broth: Add more water or unflavored stock to dilute bitterness.
2. Sweeten the Pot: Incorporate a few carrots and onions to add natural sweetness.
3. Add Acidic Ingredients: A tablespoon of apple cider vinegar can help extract minerals and reduce bitterness.
4. Incorporate Dairy: Although not typical, adding a bit of cream can mellow the broth if appropriate.
5. Use Umami-Rich Ingredients: Add mushrooms to deepen the savory flavor.
6. Introduce Fat: Skim off excess fat and consider adding a small amount of butter for richness.
7. Adjust Cooking Times: Ensure the broth simmers gently and doesn’t reduce excessively.

Final Touch: Season with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary to enhance flavor complexity.

Nutritional Benefits of Fixing Bitter Taste in Soup

Balancing the flavors in your soup not only improves taste but also ensures that you retain the nutritional benefits of the ingredients. Here’s a table detailing the nutritional benefits of various components you might add to fix bitterness in soup:

Nutrient	Benefit	Calories per Serving
Vitamin A	Supports eye health and immune function	50
Vitamin C	Boosts immune system and skin health	30
Fiber	Aids digestion and promotes fullness	20
Protein	Essential for muscle repair and growth	100
Healthy Fats	Supports brain health and hormone production	80
Antioxidants	Protects against cellular damage	10
Calcium	Strengthens bones and teeth	15
Potassium	Regulates fluid balance and muscle contractions	25
Iron	Vital for blood production and energy levels	5
Magnesium	Supports muscle and nerve function	12

Note: The calorie information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and quantities used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to neutralize bitterness in soup?

To neutralize bitterness in soup, you can add natural sweeteners like sugar or honey to balance the flavors. Incorporating acidic ingredients such as lemon juice or vinegar can also brighten the taste and counteract bitterness. Additionally, using umami-rich components like soy sauce or mushrooms can enhance depth and distract from the bitter notes. Introducing dairy products like cream or yogurt further softens the overall flavor and adds richness. Moreover, adjusting the cooking times and techniques to avoid overcooking bitter vegetables helps maintain a well-balanced and enjoyable soup.

What neutralizes bitter taste?

Several ingredients can neutralize bitter tastes, including sweeteners like sugar or honey, which add balance to the dish. Acids such as lemon juice or vinegar can also counteract bitterness by brightening the flavors. Additionally, fats like butter or olive oil can mellow harsh tastes and create a smoother texture. Umami-rich foods, such as soy sauce or mushrooms, provide depth and help mask the bitterness. Furthermore, combining these elements thoughtfully can enhance other flavor profiles, resulting in a more harmonious dish.

How do you get rid of too much bitterness?

To reduce excessive bitterness, consider diluting the dish with more broth or stock to soften the flavors. Adding sweetness, such as a touch of honey or sugar, or acidity, like a splash of lemon juice or vinegar, can help balance the bitterness. Additionally, incorporating dairy or fats, such as cream or butter, can mellow the taste and create a richer texture. Using umami-rich ingredients like soy sauce, miso, or mushrooms can further distract from the bitterness. Moreover, tasting and adjusting the seasoning gradually ensures you achieve the desired balance without overpowering other flavors.

How to get rid of bitterness in bone broth?

To eliminate bitterness in bone broth, you can add a small amount of apple cider vinegar during the cooking process to extract minerals and reduce bitterness. Incorporating vegetables like carrots and onions can add natural sweetness, balancing the flavors effectively. Additionally, skimming the broth frequently helps remove bitter impurities that may develop during cooking. Adjusting the seasoning with salt and herbs can also enhance the overall flavor, making the broth more aromatic and enjoyable. Furthermore, letting the broth simmer slowly allows the flavors to meld harmoniously.

Can adding potatoes reduce bitterness in soup?

Yes, adding potatoes can help reduce bitterness in soup. Potatoes are starchy and can absorb some of the bitter compounds, mellowing the overall flavor without significantly altering the soup’s taste. Additionally, they can add a creamy texture when blended, making the soup richer and more satisfying. Furthermore, pairing potatoes with complementary spices or herbs can enhance the dish while masking any residual bitterness.

Are there any herbs that can mask bitterness in soup?

Yes, fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and cilantro can mask bitterness in soup. These herbs add fresh, vibrant flavors that can distract from bitter notes and enhance the overall taste of the soup. Additionally, incorporating them just before serving preserves their aroma and brightens the dish. Furthermore, combining fresh herbs with a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of olive oil can further elevate the soup’s flavor profile.