Cereal-Thickened Soup
Cereal-thickened soup is a hearty, comforting dish where cooked cereals like oats, barley, or rice are used to naturally thicken the broth, creating a stew-like consistency. It typically features a base of vegetables, herbs, and sometimes meat or legumes, and is a staple in various home-style cuisines worldwide, from Scottish broths to Chinese congee-inspired savory soups.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This soup is generally high in complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber from the cereal grains, providing sustained energy and aiding digestion. A typical serving (around 1.5 cups) ranges from 150-250 calories, with moderate protein if legumes or meat are included, and offers key nutrients like B vitamins, iron, and soluble fiber.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbs | 22 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Potassium | 200 mg |
| Iron | 4.5 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.5 mg |
| Folic Acid | 200 mcg |
| Zinc | 3.8 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.4 mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.4 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, this dish exemplifies resourceful cooking, transforming humble grains into a nourishing meal that stretches ingredients and minimizes waste. Nutritionally, the soluble fiber from cereals like oats can help regulate blood sugar and cholesterol, making it a uniquely functional comfort food.
