Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Good Luck Soup Mix?
It is a layered dry soup mix containing grains, legumes, and spices, designed for easy preparation or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
What size jar is needed for the soup mix?
A clean 1.5 pint jar is the ideal size for layering the dry ingredients.
What type of peas should I use?
You can use either dried split yellow peas or dried split green peas.
Is the bouillon included in the jar?
Yes, 1/3 cup of chicken or vegetable bouillon granules serves as the base layer in the jar.
How do I keep the pasta separate in the jar?
Pack the dry alphabet pasta into a small resealable bag and place it on top of the other ingredients inside the jar.
What kind of meat should I add when cooking?
You can use 1 lb of ground chicken, beef, or turkey depending on your preference.
How much water is required to prepare the soup?
The recipe requires 2.5 quarts of hot water for cooking.
How long does the soup need to simmer?
The soup should simmer for an initial 45 minutes, followed by an additional 15 minutes after the pasta is added.
Is the saffron required for the recipe?
Saffron is optional; you can add a pinch to the jar for enhanced flavor if desired.
What grains are included in the mix?
The mix includes 1/4 cup of pearl barley and 1/2 cup of an uncooked wild rice blend.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, use vegetable bouillon granules and omit the ground meat or use a meat substitute.
How do I layer the ingredients effectively?
Start with the bouillon, followed by peas, barley, lentils, and spices, tapping the jar gently between layers to let them settle.
When do I add the fresh garlic?
Add 2 minced garlic cloves to the pot after browning the meat and stir for about a minute before adding liquids.
What types of tomatoes are used in the preparation?
The recipe calls for one 28-ounce can of diced tomatoes and one 6-ounce can of tomato paste.
Is this soup mix suitable for camping?
Yes, it is a nourishing and convenient companion for camping adventures because the main ingredients are lightweight and dry.
How should I prepare the sun-dried tomatoes?
The sun-dried tomatoes should be diced very fine before being added to the jar.
What spices are included in the mix?
The mix includes red pepper flakes, black pepper, dried basil, garlic powder, onion flakes, and Italian seasoning.
Do I need to drain the meat after browning?
Yes, you should drain any excess fat from the meat before adding the garlic and liquids.
What should I do with the bay leaves?
Two whole bay leaves are included in the jar and should be added to the pot during the boiling stage.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Absolutely, it is described as an irresistible comfort meal perfect for warming up chilly nights.
How many bay leaves are used?
Two whole bay leaves are included in each jar mix.
Can I substitute the alphabet pasta?
Yes, you can substitute it with any other small dry pasta shape if alphabet pasta is unavailable.
Does the mix include dehydrated vegetables?
Yes, it includes 2 tablespoons of dehydrated mixed vegetables.
How much tomato paste is needed?
A 6-ounce can of tomato paste is required for the preparation.
When do I add the pasta during cooking?
The reserved pasta is added after the soup has simmered for 45 minutes.
Is the rice cooked or uncooked in the jar?
The 1/2 cup of wild rice blend is added to the jar uncooked.
Can I add more seasoning at the end?
Yes, you should taste the soup after the final 15 minutes of cooking and add salt and pepper if desired.
What is the best way to gift this soup mix?
Decorate the jar with ribbons and include a label with the cooking instructions.
Does the recipe include onion?
Yes, 1/4 cup of dried onion flakes is included in the dry mix.
What is the purpose of the tomato paste?
The tomato paste helps thicken the broth and adds a deep, savory tomato flavor to the soup.