Reducing sodium in soup can be achieved through several practical methods, especially when starting with pre-packaged options like canned soup.
Many canned soups are high in sodium, but simple adjustments can significantly lower the sodium content per serving. The general principle is either to start with a lower-sodium product or to dilute the sodium that is already present.
Effective Ways to Lower Sodium in Soup
Based on advice regarding canned soup, here are effective strategies you can use:
- Choose Low-Sodium or No-Salt-Added Varieties: This is the most direct way to reduce sodium when buying soup. Many brands offer options specifically labeled as "low sodium" or "no salt added."
- Dilute the Soup with Water or Broth: Adding water or unsalted broth increases the total volume of the soup, spreading the sodium out and reducing the concentration per serving.
- Add Fresh or Frozen Vegetables: Incorporating extra vegetables, like spinach, broccoli, carrots, or peas, adds bulk and nutrients without adding sodium, effectively diluting the soup's sodium content.
- Use Less of the Soup Base or Seasoning Packet: If your soup comes with a separate base or seasoning packet, using only a portion of it can drastically cut down on the sodium, as these are often highly concentrated sources of salt.
- Make Your Own Soup From Scratch: Preparing soup from scratch gives you complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to limit or completely omit added salt. You can use herbs, spices, garlic, and onions to add flavor instead.
These methods are primarily aimed at reducing sodium in ready-to-eat or packet soups, but making soup from scratch offers the most control over sodium from the beginning.
Here's a summary table of common methods:
| Method | How it Reduces Sodium | Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Choose low-sodium varieties | Product starts with less salt | Canned/Packaged |
| Dilute with water or broth | Spreads sodium concentration across more liquid | Canned/Packaged |
| Add fresh/frozen vegetables | Increases total volume with low-sodium ingredients | Canned/Packaged |
| Use less base/seasoning packet | Decreases the amount of concentrated salt added | Canned/Packet |
| Make soup from scratch | Gives full control over salt amount | All (Homemade) |
By applying these techniques, you can enjoy the comfort of soup while managing your sodium intake. For more information on reducing sodium in canned soup, you can refer to resources like this LinkedIn advice post: What are some ways to reduce sodium in canned soup?
