Ep 4. Struggle Soup

Struggle Meals is a cooking show that focuses on creating delicious meals on a budget. In season 4, episode 4, titled Struggle Soup, the host Frankie Celenza teaches viewers how to make an affordable and hearty soup that is perfect for a cold winter night.

The episode begins with Frankie introducing the concept of making soup using ingredients that are already in your pantry or fridge, making it a great meal for those on a tight budget. He stresses the importance of using whatever ingredients you have on hand, such as leftover vegetables, canned beans, and even pasta.

Frankie then gets right to work, starting with the base of the soup which is made from sautéed onions, garlic, and celery. He adds canned tomatoes, chicken broth, and water to create a flavorful base for the soup. To give the soup some depth, Frankie adds a Parmesan cheese rind to the pot, which infuses the soup with a rich umami flavor.

Next, Frankie adds in the vegetables, using what he has on hand which includes zucchini, carrots, and cabbage. He also adds in some canned beans for protein, as well as leftover cooked pasta that he had in the fridge.

The soup simmers on the stove for a while, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Frankie tops it off with some fresh chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice, which gives the soup a bright and fresh flavor.

Throughout the episode, Frankie gives tips on how to make the soup even more budget-friendly, such as using the scraps from the veggies to make a simple vegetable broth, or using dried beans instead of canned.

As the soup is ready, Frankie shares some ideas for serving it, such as topping it off with some grated Parmesan cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for some heat.

The episode ends with Frankie sitting down to enjoy a bowl of the soup, sharing his thoughts on how comforting and satisfying it is, and how it can be customized to suit any taste by using whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Overall, Struggle Soup is a great episode for those looking for an affordable and easy-to-make meal that is perfect for the colder months. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, viewers can create a delicious and hearty soup that is satisfying and comforting.