Amish Comfort in a Bowl
Introduction
When the cold sets in and you need something truly comforting, this soup delivers every single time. Warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying, it’s the kind of meal that makes you slow down and savor each spoonful.
I’ve made it three times this week — yes, three — because once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s on repeat. It’s simple, filling, and tastes like pure home.
Description
This Amish-style chicken and corn soup is rich yet wholesome, packed with tender chicken, sweet corn, soft vegetables, and flavorful broth. It’s thick without being heavy, rustic without being complicated, and comforting without being overly rich.
Every bowl feels like a warm blanket on a cold day.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups cooked shredded chicken
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for richer flavor)
2 cups frozen or canned corn (drained)
1 cup diced potatoes
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Sauté vegetables: In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Build the base: Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir well.
Add liquids: Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
Simmer: Add potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10–15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Add chicken and corn: Stir in shredded chicken and corn.
Finish with milk: Add milk and simmer another 5–10 minutes (do not boil).
Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Serve warm: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Amish cooking traditions originate from the Amish communities of Pennsylvania and parts of the American Midwest. These communities are known for simple, hearty meals made from fresh, accessible ingredients.
Soups like this reflect the Amish values of frugality, resourcefulness, and family-centered meals. Designed to nourish hardworking households during cold winters, these dishes focus on comfort, practicality, and wholesome flavor rather than complexity.
Optional Additions
Customize your bowl with:
½ cup heavy cream for extra richness
1 cup cooked egg noodles
Crispy crumbled bacon
A pinch of smoked paprika
Extra herbs like rosemary
Cheddar cheese stirred in at the end
Tips for Success
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Dice vegetables evenly for consistent texture.
Simmer gently — boiling can cause milk to curdle.
If too thick, add more broth.
If too thin, simmer uncovered a few extra minutes.
This soup tastes even better the next day!
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 28g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Values vary depending on ingredient choices.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This soup strikes a beautiful balance between comfort and nourishment. Packed with protein, vegetables, and hearty ingredients, it’s filling without being overly heavy. By using milk instead of heavy cream, it maintains richness while keeping things lighter.
Comfort food can still support well-being — especially when made from simple, whole ingredients.
Conclusion
When it’s cold outside, this truly is “Amish Comfort in a Bowl.”
It’s cozy, satisfying, and the kind of recipe you’ll make again and again — sometimes three times in one week!
Recommendation
Serve with warm crusty bread or homemade biscuits and enjoy it by the fire or around the family table.
