Noodle Soup Mix in a Jar
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Assembly Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time (When Prepared): 15 minutes
- Total Active Time: 30 minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Recipe Intensity: Low
- Yield: 1 Quart Jar (Approximately 6 Servings)
Ingredients
Dry Soup Mix
- 2 cups dried egg noodles
- 3 tablespoons chicken bouillon granules
- ¼ cup dehydrated carrots
- ¼ cup dehydrated celery
- 2 tablespoons dried onion flakes
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (optional, depending on bouillon sodium content)
Optional Additions
- 2 tablespoons dried sweet corn
- 1 tablespoon dried peas
- 1 teaspoon dried chives
- ½ teaspoon turmeric for color
- 1 bay leaf
Equipment Needed
- 1 quart-sized mason jar with lid
- Funnel (optional)
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Small bowl
- Decorative ribbon and gift tag (optional)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Noodle Soup Mix in a Jar offers several advantages:
- Quick meal preparation
- Long shelf life
- Attractive homemade gift
- Budget-friendly
- Easy customization
- Minimal storage space
- Perfect for meal prepping
- Comforting homemade flavor
Whether you’re stocking your pantry or creating gifts for loved ones, this soup mix is both practical and delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Time: 5 minutes
Intensity: Low
Clean and dry the mason jar thoroughly.
Ensure there is no moisture inside the jar, as moisture can shorten shelf life and affect ingredient quality.
Arrange all ingredients on your countertop for easy assembly.
Step 2: Mix the Seasonings
Time: 3 minutes
Intensity: Low
In a small bowl combine:
- Chicken bouillon granules
- Garlic powder
- Thyme
- Black pepper
- Salt
- Parsley
Mix until evenly blended.
Combining the seasonings beforehand ensures even flavor distribution when the soup is prepared.
Step 3: Add the First Layer
Time: 2 minutes
Intensity: Low
Pour the seasoning mixture into the bottom of the mason jar.
Gently tap the jar on the counter to create an even layer.
This creates a visually attractive foundation for the soup mix.
Step 4: Layer the Vegetables
Time: 5 minutes
Intensity: Low
Carefully add:
- Dehydrated carrots
- Dehydrated celery
- Onion flakes
- Optional dried corn
- Optional dried peas
Create distinct layers for a decorative appearance.
Avoid shaking the jar excessively if you want to preserve the layered effect.
Step 5: Add the Noodles
Time: 3 minutes
Intensity: Low
Place the dried egg noodles on top of the vegetable layers.
Fill the jar as much as possible while leaving approximately 1 inch of headspace near the lid.
The noodles should form the top layer.
Step 6: Seal the Jar
Time: 2 minutes
Intensity: Low
Secure the lid tightly.
If giving as a gift, attach a decorative ribbon and a recipe card with preparation instructions.
The sealed jar can be stored in a cool, dry place until ready for use.
Cooking Instructions
When ready to enjoy the soup:
Step 1: Empty the Jar
Time: 1 minute
Intensity: Low
Pour the entire contents of the jar into a large saucepan.
Step 2: Add Water
Time: 1 minute
Intensity: Low
Add:
- 8 cups water
For a richer soup, substitute part of the water with chicken broth.
Step 3: Bring to a Boil
Time: 5 minutes
Intensity: Medium
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat.
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
Stir occasionally to prevent noodles from sticking.
Step 4: Simmer
Time: 10 minutes
Intensity: Low
Reduce heat to medium-low.
Simmer until:
- Noodles are tender
- Vegetables are fully rehydrated
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 5: Serve
Time: 1 minute
Intensity: Low
Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Serve immediately.
Tips for Success
Use Quality Ingredients
High-quality noodles and dehydrated vegetables produce the best flavor.
Keep Everything Dry
Moisture is the enemy of long-term storage.
Ensure all ingredients and containers are completely dry.
Layer Carefully
Distinct layers make the jar visually appealing for gift-giving.
Label Clearly
Include cooking instructions and the preparation date.
Store Properly
Keep jars away from direct sunlight and humidity.
Creative Variations
Chicken Noodle Soup Mix
Add:
- Freeze-dried chicken pieces
for extra protein and heartiness.
Vegetable Noodle Soup Mix
Replace chicken bouillon with vegetable bouillon.
Ideal for vegetarians.
Italian Herb Soup Mix
Add:
- Basil
- Oregano
- Rosemary
for Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Spicy Noodle Soup Mix
Add:
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Cayenne pepper
for extra heat.
Asian-Inspired Soup Mix
Include:
- Dried mushrooms
- Ginger powder
- Green onion flakes
for an Asian-style soup base.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this noodle soup with:
- Crusty bread
- Dinner rolls
- Grilled cheese sandwiches
- Fresh green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Crackers
- Garlic bread
The soup also works beautifully as a light lunch or quick dinner.
Storage Instructions
Pantry Storage
Store the sealed jar in a cool, dry place.
- Shelf Life: Up to 12 months
Refrigeration
Not required if ingredients remain dry.
Freezing
Freezing is generally unnecessary for dry soup mixes.
Health Benefits
Provides Comforting Nutrition
The combination of noodles and vegetables creates a balanced and satisfying meal.
Source of Carbohydrates
Egg noodles provide energy for daily activities.
Vegetable Nutrients
Dehydrated vegetables contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Easy Digestion
Noodle soup is often easy on the stomach and comforting during colder months.
Convenient Homemade Alternative
Offers better ingredient control than many commercially packaged soups.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different noodles?
Yes. Small pasta shapes, ramen noodles, or broken spaghetti work well.
How long does the soup mix last?
Properly stored, it can remain fresh for up to one year.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Use vegetable bouillon instead of chicken bouillon.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Prepare multiple jars at once for gifts or pantry storage.
Are dehydrated vegetables necessary?
Yes. Fresh vegetables contain moisture and are unsuitable for long-term storage in dry soup mixes.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (Prepared Soup Approximate)
- Calories: 170
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Potassium: 180mg
- Calcium: 20mg
- Iron: 1.5mg
- Vitamin A: 1800 IU
- Vitamin C: 4mg
