Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsMerriman's HonoluluHouse Made Soup Of The Day Recipe

House Made Soup Of The Day Recipe

Time50m
Serves6

Make House Made Soup Of The Day Recipe in just 50m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Soup Base

Method

Soup Base

  1. 1

    Sweat aromatics

    In a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent, about 6–8 minutes.

  2. 2

    Add garlic and flour

    Add the minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook the raw flour taste, forming a light roux.

  3. 3

    Deglaze and add liquid

    Slowly pour in 1 cup of water while stirring to loosen any browned bits. Then add the chicken (or vegetable) stock, bay leaf, and thyme. Increase heat to bring to a gentle simmer.

  4. 4

    Season and simmer

    Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 10 minutes to develop the base flavor.

Seasonal Add-ins (Upcountry)

  1. 5

    Add potatoes and cook

    Add the quartered fingerling potatoes to the simmering broth. Continue to simmer until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 12–15 minutes depending on size.

  2. 6

    Add corn and protein or beans

    Stir in the roasted corn kernels and the smoked ham (or cooked white beans for vegetarian option). Simmer 4–6 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to marry.

  3. 7

    Finish with greens

    Add the baby kale or chopped local greens and simmer for 2–3 minutes until wilted but still vibrant.

Finishing

  1. 8

    Adjust texture and richness

    If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in 1 cup heavy cream and heat through gently (do not boil) for 2–3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.

  2. 9

    Brighten and serve

    Remove and discard the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Stir in 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice and 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley. Garnish with an additional 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and serve hot.

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