My Grandma’s Version of This Soup Was Simply the Best

Every family has that one dish that never quite tastes the same when anyone else makes it. For me, it was my grandma’s soup. It wasn’t fancy, it didn’t require exotic ingredients, yet it was filled with so much flavor and love that no restaurant or recipe has ever been able to match it. This comforting bowl of goodness was her way of showing care, warming us on cold evenings, and gathering the whole family around the table.

In this article, I’ll walk you through how to make her soup step by step. It’s hearty, nourishing, and deeply satisfying — the kind of meal that makes you close your eyes after the first spoonful because it just feels like home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tablespoons olive oil or butter (grandma sometimes used butter for richness)
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
2 medium potatoes, diced into small cubes
1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup fresh tomatoes, chopped (or canned if not in season)
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or a small sprig fresh thyme)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup cooked shredded chicken (optional — she made it both ways)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Start by heating olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns soft and golden. Stir in the garlic and let it release its aroma — this is the foundation of the soup’s flavor.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Toss in the carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook them for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Grandma always said this step “wakes up” the vegetables and helps them develop a deeper flavor before the broth goes in.