Lumberjack Soup, also known as Lumberjack Stew or Lumberjack Chowder, is a hearty and flavorful dish that has gained popularity for its rich taste and satisfying ingredients. This rustic soup has its roots in the logging camps of North America, where hearty meals were essential to provide sustenance and energy for hardworking lumberjacks.
The history of Lumberjack Soup can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when logging was a prominent industry in regions like the Great Lakes and Pacific Northwest. Lumberjacks, known for their demanding physical labor, relied on meals that were filling, nutritious, and easy to prepare. Lumberjack Soup became a staple in their diets, combining ingredients readily available in the wilderness, such as bacon, potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables.
The flavor profile of Lumberjack Soup is robust and comforting. The smoky and savory notes from the bacon add depth to the soup, while the combination of vegetables brings a variety of textures and flavors. The broth, often made with chicken or vegetable stock, infuses the ingredients with a rich and comforting base. The addition of cream adds a touch of creaminess and helps bring all the flavors together.
Over time, Lumberjack Soup has gained popularity beyond the logging camps and has become a beloved dish in many households. Its wholesome and satisfying nature, coupled with the ease of customization by adding different vegetables or herbs, has made it a favorite among home cooks and food enthusiasts alike. Lumberjack Soup’s recognition has also been bolstered by its appearance in cookbooks, food blogs, and even competitive cooking shows, where its rustic charm and delicious taste have earned it accolades.
Whether enjoyed on a cold winter’s day or as a comforting meal any time of the year, Lumberjack Soup continues to captivate taste buds with its rich flavors and comforting appeal. Its humble origins and ability to bring people together over a warm bowl of soup have contributed to its enduring popularity as an award-winning recipe.
Canadian lumberjack soup
Ingredients
- – 1 lb 450g bacon, diced
- – 1 large onion chopped
- – 4 cloves of garlic minced
- – 4 medium carrots peeled and diced
- – 4 celery stalks diced
- – 4 medium potatoes peeled and diced
- – 8 cups 2 liters chicken or vegetable broth
- – 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- – 1 cup 240ml heavy cream
- – 2 cups 240g fresh or frozen corn kernels
- – 2 cups 240g chopped kale or spinach
- – Salt and pepper to taste
- – Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon using a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
- In the same pot with the bacon fat, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and cooked bacon to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream, corn kernels, and chopped kale or spinach. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
