zaro

How to Use Rosemary in Soup?

Published in Soup Seasoning 3 mins read

To infuse your soup with rosemary's distinctive flavor, gently stir it in and simmer. Here's a more detailed guide:

Timing is Key: When to Add Rosemary

The best time to add rosemary to soup depends on whether you're using fresh or dried rosemary.

  • Fresh Rosemary: Add fresh rosemary sprigs early in the cooking process. This allows ample time for the flavors to meld with the broth. Consider adding it when you add other aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery.
  • Dried Rosemary: Add dried rosemary slightly later than fresh rosemary. Dried herbs release their flavor more quickly, so adding them too early might result in a slightly bitter taste. Adding it about 30 minutes before the soup is finished cooking is usually ideal.

Amount Matters: How Much Rosemary to Use

Start with a small amount and taste as you go. Remember, rosemary has a strong flavor.

  • Fresh Rosemary: 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary is generally sufficient for a pot of soup (4-6 servings).
  • Dried Rosemary: Start with 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary for the same amount of soup.

Simmering and Flavor Extraction: The Process

  1. Initial Stir: Gently stir the rosemary (fresh or dried) into the soup.
  2. Bring to a Simmer: Allow the soup to come to a simmer.
  3. Reduce Heat: Reduce the heat to medium-low.
  4. Simmer: Simmer for at least 5 minutes, or longer depending on the desired rosemary intensity. Regularly taste the broth to gauge the flavor. You can add more rosemary if needed.
  5. Remove Sprigs (Optional): If using fresh rosemary sprigs, you can remove them before serving or leave them in for presentation. Be sure to inform people eating to avoid the woody sprigs.

Choosing Rosemary: Fresh vs. Dried

  • Fresh rosemary offers a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
  • Dried rosemary has a more concentrated, robust flavor.

Both are perfectly suitable for soup; it's a matter of personal preference. When substituting, remember that 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary equals approximately 1 tablespoon (3 teaspoons) of fresh, chopped rosemary.

Tips for Using Rosemary in Soup:

  • Chop or bruise fresh rosemary: This helps release its oils and intensifies the flavor.
  • Use a cheesecloth bag or tea infuser: This keeps the rosemary sprigs from floating freely in the soup and makes for easier removal.
  • Pairs well with: Lamb, chicken, potatoes, beans, tomatoes, and garlic.

Using rosemary in soup adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Start small, taste often, and adjust according to your preference for the perfect rosemary infusion.