How to Host a Soup Swap
A Quick, Easy, and Low-Cost Entertaining Idea
A soup swap is a fun and inexpensive way to entertain friends and fill the freezer. With a few basic preparations and a crowd of enthusiastic guests, any host or hostess can plan a successful soup swap.
Each guest will arrive with soup to share. Everyone will sample soups, swap recipes, and then take home batches to store for future meals. A soup swap is a unique and practical way to entertain.
Begin by picking the date and making the guest list. Invite a crowd or keep it small; this type of event can be very flexible.
Step One: Planning the Party
Help guests understand the nature of a soup swap. Send an invitation highlighting the following points:
- Each guest should bring four one-quart containers filled with a favorite homemade soup or stew.
- Each guest should bring several copies of the soup recipe.
- Each guest will get to take home three different soups.
As guests respond to invitations, it is helpful to keep track of their soup choices. This will eliminate multiple batches of Chicken Noodle, for instance, and ensure a tempting variety for the soup swap participants.
Step Two: Preparing for a Soup Swap
Hosting a soup swap is fairly simple and inexpensive. The only set-up necessary is a large table or countertop which can be used as a soup buffet. Provide small tasting cups and spoons for soup sampling.
Stir up a pot of a favorite soup to share with guests. White Bean, Pasta and Sausage Soup is a hearty choice. Or try Old Fashioned Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup.
An assortment of crusty breads, butter and cheese make a tasty accompaniment for the soups. Be sure to stock up on saltines, oyster crackers, Parmesan cheese and assorted seasonings. Beverages and desserts can be simple or elaborate to suit individual preferences.
Step Three: Enjoying the Party
Once guests arrive, allow them to spread out their offerings. Encourage each cook to pour samples for the other guests. Provide a space for printed recipes.
During the party, allow time for each participant to share the history of their soup. Find out where the recipes originate. Ask for tips on preparation and serving methods. Each guest will enjoy being the center of attention for a short time.
For fun, a panel of judges might be selected. They can award prizes for "spiciest soup," "most original recipe" or "healthiest choice."
At the end of the evening, each guest can take home three different soup choices. In addition, each guest will have a variety of printed recipes to try at home on their own.
For soup recipe ideas, see Homemade Soup Recipes.
Soup swaps are a fun and easy way to entertain. Guests will enjoy sampling new recipes and taking home a hot, healthy meal. Hosts will enjoy gathering with friends in a relaxed setting. Everyone will enjoy this unique opportunity to stock up on delicious soup concoctions.
Soup Swaps Are Delicious and Economical!
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