20 Hearty Pork Soup Recipes for Cozy Nights

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Cozy nights are made for a warm, comforting bowl of soup. And what better way to fill that bowl than with some delicious and hearty pork-based soups? Pork adds a rich flavor and satisfying texture to any meal, making it a great base for a variety of soups. From classic combinations like pork and cabbage to more exotic flavors like spicy Thai noodles or creamy coconut milk-based recipes, there’s something on this list for every taste bud.

In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring 20 different pork soup recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and new, these soups are sure to hit the spot.

Classic Pork and Cabbage Soup

This hearty soup is a staple of Eastern European cuisine, made with tender pork, crisp cabbage, and aromatic spices. It’s a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cabbage and chicken broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the pork is tender.
4. Stir in caraway seeds and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Spicy Thai Pork Noodle Soup

Spicy Thai Pork Noodle Soup Recipe

This spicy and savory soup is a staple of Thai cuisine, packed with juicy pork, crunchy vegetables, and a flavorful broth. With its bold flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini), sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 8 oz rice noodles, cooked according to package instructions
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, ginger, and mushrooms. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in curry paste, fish sauce, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until pork is cooked through.
5. Add noodles and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Slow-Cooked Pork and Bean Soup

Slow-Cooked Pork and Bean Soup Recipe

Cozy up with a warm and comforting bowl of slow-cooked pork and bean soup, perfect for a chilly evening or a hearty lunch. This recipe is a classic combination of tender pork, creamy beans, and aromatic spices that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 cups chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add pork shoulder; cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the slow cooker, combine cooked pork, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in chicken broth.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro (optional).

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Vietnamese Pork Rib Soup with Lemongrass

This hearty and aromatic soup is a staple of Vietnamese cuisine, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. With the rich flavors of pork ribs, lemongrass, and herbs, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound pork ribs
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine pork ribs, lemongrass, garlic, and onion.
2. Pour in chicken broth, water, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and black pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until pork is tender.
4. Season with additional salt if needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Creamy Pork and Potato Soup

Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines tender pork, creamy potatoes, and a hint of smoky paprika. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add pork, onion, and garlic; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add diced potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients; bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until pork is tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half; cook an additional 5 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Pork and Mushroom Miso Soup

This hearty soup combines tender pork, earthy mushrooms, and savory miso paste for a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a soothing pick-me-up any time of the year.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (shiitake, cremini, button), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the pork strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms, chicken broth, miso paste, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pork is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Tomato-Based Pork and Vegetable Soup

A hearty and flavorful soup that combines tender pork, fresh vegetables, and rich tomato puree.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes, bell pepper, and thyme. Cook for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in canned tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until pork is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Pork and Corn Chowder

A hearty and comforting soup perfect for a chilly evening, this Pork and Corn Chowder combines tender chunks of pork with sweet corn and creamy potatoes. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the pork over medium-high heat until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, potatoes, corn kernels, chicken broth, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pork is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Korean Pork Bone Soup (Gamjatang)

A hearty and comforting Korean soup made with pork bones, vegetables, and a rich, spicy broth. This recipe is perfect for a cold winter’s day or whenever you need a warm, satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs pork bones (you can use leftover bones from other recipes)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium potato, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup diced Korean radish (optional)
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the pork bones with cold water, then place them in a large pot or Dutch oven.
2. Add the water, gochugaru, onion, garlic, and potato. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Remove any impurities that rise to the surface. Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a side of rice or noodles.

Cooking Time: 2 hours

Pork and Lentil Soup with Herbs

Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines tender pork, nutritious lentils, and aromatic herbs. This recipe makes 6 servings.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or neck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the lentils, chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, thyme, and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the pork is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Pork and Dumpling Soup

A hearty and comforting soup that combines tender pork with fluffy dumplings, perfect for a cozy evening meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package of store-bought or homemade dumpling mix (about 12-15 dumplings)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until pork is tender.
4. Prepare dumplings according to package instructions (or homemade recipe).
5. Add cooked dumplings to the soup pot and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours

Pork and Bok Choy Soup with Ginger

This savory soup is a perfect blend of Asian flavors, featuring tender pork, crunchy bok choy, and the warmth of ginger. Serve as a comforting meal or as a starter for your next dinner party.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 bunch bok choy, chopped
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. In the same pot, add grated ginger and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in broth and water, then add cooked pork, bok choy, and soy sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pork is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Pork and Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk

Pork and Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk: A creamy and comforting soup that combines the flavors of roasted pork, sweet pumpkin, and rich coconut milk.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium pumpkins, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pork with 1 tablespoon olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until browned.
3. In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, pumpkin, and roasted pork to the pot. Pour in chicken broth and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Pork and Barley Soup with Root Vegetables

Warm up with this comforting soup that combines tender pork, nutty barley, and a medley of root vegetables. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cold winter’s day.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium celery stalks, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large red potato, peeled and chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine pork, water, barley, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes or until pork is tender.
3. Add potato and continue to simmer, covered, for an additional 20-25 minutes or until potato is cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes

Pork and Spinach Soup with Garlic

A hearty and comforting soup that combines the richness of pork with the nutrients of spinach and the pungency of garlic, perfect for a cozy evening meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, onion, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the pork is tender.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Pork and Tofu Soup with Chili Oil

This hearty soup combines the savory flavor of pork with the tenderness of tofu, all wrapped up in a spicy package thanks to the addition of chili oil. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1-2 teaspoons chili oil (depending on desired level of spiciness)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, and chili oil to the pot. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the vegetable broth, browned pork, and tofu cubes to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Pork and Wild Rice Soup

This comforting soup combines tender pork, nutty wild rice, and a medley of vegetables in a rich and flavorful broth.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cups wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the pork over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the wild rice blend, chicken broth, and thyme.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the pork is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Pork and Chickpea Soup with Turmeric

Warm and aromatic, this Pork and Chickpea Soup with Turmeric is a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for a cozy evening.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pork shoulder or ribs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in chickpeas, chicken broth, turmeric, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pork is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Pork and Sweet Potato Soup with Cumin

A hearty and flavorful soup that combines tender pork, sweet potatoes, and a hint of cumin for a deliciously comforting meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into small pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the pork over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the sweet potatoes, chicken broth, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup to desired consistency.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.

Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes

Pork and Kale Soup with White Beans

This hearty soup combines tender pork, earthy kale, and creamy white beans in a flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or lunchbox addition.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add broth, beans, kale, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Summary

Cozy up on cold nights with these 20 hearty pork soup recipes! From classic combinations like pork and cabbage to international inspirations like Korean pork bone soup, there’s something for everyone. Explore flavors from around the world, including Thai, Vietnamese, and Mexican influences. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy and sour or creamy and comforting, these soups are sure to hit the spot. With ingredients like tender pork, aromatic spices, and nourishing vegetables, these recipes will become new favorites in no time.

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