ABC Soup (Carrot, Tomato, & Potato Soup)

Short Description

A wholesome and comforting chicken-based soup featuring carrots, tomatoes, and potatoes—ABC Soup is loved for its simplicity, balance of nutrients, and heartwarming flavors. This nourishing dish is a staple in many Asian households and is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Gentle and soothing flavor, perfect for all ages
• Packed with natural vitamins from carrots (A), potatoes (B), and tomatoes (C)
• Simple one-pot preparation with common ingredients
• Easy to customize based on what’s in your fridge
• A great make-ahead or freezer-friendly option

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 chicken drumsticks or 3 chicken thighs
• 1 large potato (or 2 small white or yellow potatoes), peeled and cut into large chunks
• 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced into 1–1.5 inch chunks
• ½ yellow onion, cut into chunks
• 1 large tomato, sliced into wedges
• 1 corn on the cob, cut into 4 pieces
• 1 knob ginger, sliced
• 6 cups water
• 1½–2 teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
• Dash of white pepper
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil
• Scallions, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare The Ingredients
   Cut the onion, carrot, corn, tomato, and potato into appropriate chunk sizes. Prepare the potato last to prevent oxidation.
2. Blanch The Chicken
   In a pot of boiling water, blanch the chicken drumsticks or thighs for 1–2 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and set aside.
3. Make The Soup
   In a large pot, add the blanched chicken, prepared vegetables, ginger, and 6 cups of water. Bring to a boil, skimming off any scum that rises to the top.
4. Simmer Gently
   Reduce the heat to low or medium-low and cover. Let the soup simmer for at least 45 minutes. For deeper flavor, simmer for up to 90 minutes.
5. Season The Soup
   Add salt, chicken bouillon powder, white pepper, and sesame oil to taste. Stir to combine.
6. Serve
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped scallions if desired. Serve hot, with steamed rice or warm pita bread on the side.

Servings And Timing

• Yield: About 4 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45–90 minutes (depending on preferred depth of flavor)
• Total Time: Up to 1.5 hours

Variations

• Use pork ribs or anchovies instead of chicken for a different base flavor
• Make it vegetarian by omitting meat and using more vegetables like zucchini or beetroot
• Add extra garlic or lemongrass for enhanced aroma
• Incorporate baby spinach or cabbage near the end of cooking for added greens
• Blend part of the soup for a smoother consistency while keeping some chunks

Storage/Reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Reheat gently over medium heat on the stovetop
• Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly
• Add a splash of water when reheating if the soup has thickened

FAQs

What Does “ABC” Stand For In This Soup?

It represents the three main vegetables: carrot (A), potato (B), and tomato (C), or it refers to the soup being as simple as ABC.

Can I Use Boneless Chicken?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breast can be used, though bone-in gives the soup deeper flavor.

Do I Need To Blanch The Chicken?

Blanching helps remove impurities for a cleaner, clearer broth, but you can skip it if short on time.

Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead Of Drumsticks Or Thighs?

Yes, but dark meat adds more flavor. If using breast, add it after the soup has simmered for a while to prevent it from drying out.

Can I Make This In An Instant Pot?

Yes. Use the sauté function for step one, then pressure cook on high for about 20–25 minutes with natural release.

Is It Okay To Add More Vegetables?

Absolutely. You can include celery, bell peppers, or leafy greens to make it even heartier.

Can I Omit The Corn Or Ginger?

Yes, but both add natural sweetness and depth. The soup will still be flavorful without them.

Can I Make This Vegetarian?

Yes—omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add more starchy vegetables and perhaps lentils or beans.

Why Add Sesame Oil At The End?

It enhances the aroma and flavor of the soup. Adding it at the end preserves its nuttiness.

Can I Serve This With Noodles Instead Of Rice?

Definitely. Egg noodles or vermicelli work well as a base for this light and flavorful broth.

Conclusion

ABC Soup is a simple, nourishing, and versatile dish that brings together the natural sweetness of vegetables and the richness of chicken in a warm, flavorful broth. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for a gentle, balanced meal, this soup delivers every time.

Print