Soup tastes way better and more flavourful if 1 ingredient is added

As the chilly autumn winds blow and rainy days settle in, nothing quite hits the spot like a warm, comforting bowl of soup. It's the perfect remedy for cold days and the inevitable cold and flu season. While classic chicken soup is a go-to for many, whether it's chicken noodle, chicken and rice, or creamy chicken soup, there is one simple ingredient likely already in your kitchen cupboard that can take your soup from good to unforgettable. If you don't already have turmeric in your spice cupboard, it's easy to find and very affordable.

Major UK supermarkets like Asda currently sell ground turmeric for around £0.98, Aldi offers it for just £0.75, Tesco prices it at about £1, and Sainsbury's stocks it for roughly £1.10. This golden-yellow spice isn't just for curries and rice, it adds a subtle, earthy warmth and brings a whole new dimension to your soup.

According to freelance writer, registered dietitian, and sustainable nutrition expert, Christina Manian, writing for Simply Recipes, adds a unique earthy, peppery, and slightly musky flavour to the soup and she calls it her 'secret ingredient.'

Beyond flavour, turmeric lends a beautiful, vibrant golden hue that makes your soup as visually appealing as it is tasty.

For a recipe using six cups of broth, she typically adds about a teaspoon of ground turmeric or a tablespoon of freshly grated turmeric root.

If you prefer to be cautious, she said to start with half that amount, taste your chicken soup, and then add more if needed and according to your liking.

Ms Manian also advised blooming the turmeric to bring out the full flavour of the spices. Instead of adding raw veggies straight to the broth, she makes sure to lightly sauté carrots, onions, and celery first, then stir in turmeric and cook it for about a minute before adding the broth.

On top of its culinary benefits, turmeric is packed with nutrients known for their anti-inflammatory properties, making it an especially welcome addition during cold and flu season.

The spice contains curcumin, a natural compound with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help reduce inflammation, support brain health, improve digestion, and boost your immune system.

Some studies also suggest that curcumin may help fight cancer cells, making turmeric a fantastic addition for both taste and wellness.