Feeling hot and bothered in your search for fun soup facts? Well, soup-rise! We’ve uncovered 14 soup-er fun facts about soup you probably never knew. We call it a hearty mix of fun and fascination so let’s dive right in, no simmering required.
14 Incredible and Fun Soup Facts That Will Blow Your Mind
Explore these 14 fun soup facts that will keep you entertained. From what is Britain’s favourite soup to hit US sitcoms, be prepared for a super soup experience. And we’ve also included many scrumptious Campbell’s recipes and meals that you can enjoy.
1. Early Evidence – Hippo-thetically soup
It may be a hard fact to swallow, but archaeological evidence suggests that hippopotamus soup was amongst the first soup consumed, dating as far back as 6,000BC. Hippopotamus meat was considered a significant food source for early humans in regions where hippos were abundant.
We can’t offer you a hippo soup recipe, but we can invite you to tickle your tastebuds with this Crunchy Tuna Pasta Bake, made with just one can of Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Tomato Soup.
2. Soup Groups
In case you were wondering, there are only two main groups of soup; thick and clear. Campbell’s Cream of Chicken Condensed Soup is a classic example of a thick soup and can be used to make this delicious Chicken Meatballs and Mash recipe. If you have not already tried it, give it a go, you won’t be sorry.
It has been said that in the 1700s, a French king, captivated by his own reflection, instructed his royal chefs to create a soup so clear that he could see himself in the bowl. And so, consommé, a refined clear broth, was born.
3. Soup Keeps You Hydrated
Is soup food or drink? That’s up to you to debate. What we will add to the pot is that consuming soup is a great way to keep hydrated. So, if you are finding it difficult to stay hydrated, try incorporating more water-rich foods into your diet.
One of the many surprising things about Campbell’s soup, is that it can served in a cup or on a plate! Why not try this plated Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta by using Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Chicken to make the sauce!
4. American Consommé-ption
This may come as a slurp-rise to you, it has been said that the American market consumes over 10 billion bowls of soup annually! After all, it’s easy to consume and just so versatile.
Let’s not forget the emotional connection to soup which evokes feelings of comfort and nostalgia, whether it’s mum’s chicken soup or a childhood favourite like tomato soup paired with a grilled cheese sandwich. Talking of nostalgia, try this Pie like Mumma Used To Make,
5. Whatever the Weather
With flavours ranging from sweet to savoury, soups can be enjoyed hot or cold, and tailored to the climate of the region where they are served. This adaptability makes soup a universal dish, loved in cuisines all over the world for its ability to reflect local ingredients and traditions.
With cooler weather on our doorstep, try this Simple Festive Leftover Pie Recipe – it’s guaranteed to warm you up when temperatures begin to plunge!
6. Britain’s Favourite Soup
Now this may be an easy guess, but the most popular soup flavour in the UK is (bowl roll please)…tomato soup! It’s the perfect foodie representation of comforting simplicity and a rich, familiar flavour.
The versatility of tomato soup makes it a staple, whether served as a quick, warming meal on a chilly day or paired with crusty bread for a satisfying lunch. Talking of this delicious and flavourful soup, we think you would like this Chicken Curry Delight. What is not to love? Perfect as a satisfying and low-cost meal that the whole family will enjoy.
7. Preserved Nutrition
The canning process enables nutrients in foods like soup, to be preserved from the day they’re canned to a year later! The soup is preserved by heating it to high temperatures, sterilising the contents, typically through a process called retort processing. Did someone say Beef Stroganoff, made using Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Mushroom – it is a must-try!
8. “No Soup For You”
Heard of the pop culture catchphrase “No soup for you!”? Well, interestingly, this originated from the 1995 episode of the TV show Seinfeld, as a response to a request or demand that would not be fulfilled. In the episode, the phrase is uttered by a strict and eccentric soup vendor who insists that customers either to his rigid rules of ordering or be denied service.
Unlike the feeling of disappointment, we think this Pork Chops Creamy Mushroom and Garlic Sauce recipe will leave you feeling satisfied and fulfilled, adding flavour to a variety of dishes, in particular for our garlic lovers.
9. Source of Inspiration
The legendary opera composer Giuseppe Verdi (1813–1901), celebrated for his masterpieces like La Traviata, Aida, and Rigoletto, had an unusual ritual when inspiration seemed absent.
Word has it he would turn to a humble bowl of noodle soup likely because he believed the act of savouring the simple, nourishing dish helped clear his mind and spark creativity. For tonight’s dinner inspiration, check out this Savoury Chicken Pancake recipe.
10. Soupless Shakespeare Sonnets
This one even surprised us… the word ‘soup’ does not occur in any of Shakespeare’s plays or sonnets. We’re convinced The Bard himself would have devoured this Condensed Cream of Chicken Potato Bake, made using Campbell’s Condensed Cream of Chicken.
Chicken was a common and popular food in Elizabethan England. Poultry, including chicken, was widely consumed by people across the nation. It was prepared in numerous ways, such as roasted, boiled, or used in pies, making it a versatile and valued ingredient. Though now, there are many more interesting ways to cook chicken, including in the dishwasher!
11. Andy Warhol’s Iconic Campbell’s Soup Cans
Andy Warhol’s iconic artwork, Campbell’s Soup Cans, showcases the fusion of art and consumer culture. Warhol was a film director, producer and prominent figure in the pop art movement and is regarded as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
Keeping in line with the American theme, we think you will enjoy this delicious Campbell’s Creamy Chicken Succotash recipe.
12. Who Was First to Condense Soup?
Campbell’s of course! The food industry was revolutionised by Campbell’s when condensed soup was invented, making its world debut in 1897 and changing the way we enjoy soup forever.
More than 120 years later, Campbell’s Soup remains popular all over the world, celebrated for its comforting flavours, rich history, and timeless appeal. Talking of rich and flavourful, you have to give this Sausage Meatball Goulash a try. It’s high in protein and full of comfort and in just 15 minutes, you can add it as a weekly-favourite!
13. What was the First Flavour Introduced by Campbell’s?
Campbell’s first-ever soup flavour, Beefsteak Tomato, made its appearance in 1895. Unlike the condensed soups we know today, it was a ready-to-eat classic that started it all! Over the decades, Campbell’s Soup evolved, but the legacy of that first can of Beefsteak Tomato remains. It symbolizes a turning point in culinary history, where accessible, delicious, and dependable food became available to families everywhere.
The warm bowl of soup that started it all continues to echo in kitchens worldwide, reminding us of the brand’s enduring place in our hearts – and our pantries. Moving to today, take a look at the variety of recipes that can be made using Campbell’s Condensed Soup.
14. A Soup for Every Season You Say…
Soup is so adaptable it can be enjoyed on its own or in a recipe as a starter, or main all year-round. In the colder months, this hearty, warming Campbell’s Butter Chicken recipe is a favourite, while this cooler recipe like Veggie Picnic Pie is popular in warmer weather when accompanied by a crisp salad.
Whether you prefer your soup spicy, tangy, creamy, or hearty, there’s a Campbell’s soup recipe that turns this childhood favourite into a versatile dish for any occasion. With a little creativity and the right combination of ingredients, Campbell’s Soup transforms into a canvas for culinary adventure.
Now You Know These Insightful and Fun Facts About Soup, Why Not Submit Your Favourite Recipe Made Using Campbell’s Soup?
We hope you enjoyed these fun facts about soup alongside some of our favourite recipes. Please feel free to share your favourite Campbell’s recipes with us!