A simple, gut-friendly soup framework for nourishment, warmth, and digestion

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This hearty bone broth soup is designed as a flexible framework, not a rigid recipe.

It’s ideal for anyone looking to make nourishing, easy-to-digest meals using real foods, especially during times when the body needs gentleness and stability.

By layering vegetables based on how long they take to cook, you get better texture, better flavor, and better digestion — without complicated measurements.

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Why This Soup Works

• Uses real bone broth for minerals, collagen, and depth of flavor
• Focuses on root vegetables that are grounding and gentle
• Avoids added sugars and excess starch
• Can be eaten chunky or blended smooth
• Easy to customize for different dietary needs

This soup is especially helpful during colder months, periods of digestive sensitivity, or anytime you want a calming, nutrient-dense meal.

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Shopping List (Simple & Flexible)

Vegetables

• 1 large rutabaga
• 1 large turnip
• 1 butternut squash
• 1 lb carrots
• 1 large onion (optional)
• 1 bunch celery
• Yellow Squash and/or Zucchini (optional)

Protein & Broth

• Bones for bone broth (chicken, beef, or mixed)
• Optional meat: chicken, beef, or turkey

Seasoning

• Salt (to taste)
• Gentle spices (bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, garlic, black pepper)

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Step 1: Make the Bone Broth (The Foundation)

1. Place real bones in a large pot or crock pot.
2. Cover with water and add a pinch of salt.
3. Simmer on low heat for ~12 hours (longer is fine).
4. Skim foam if needed.
5. When finished, remove and discard the bones.

You now have a rich, mineral-dense broth that forms the base of the soup.

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Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

• Chop vegetables into ½-inch to 1-inch cubes
• Consistency matters more than precision

Vegetable Timing Matters

Not all vegetables cook at the same speed. Separating them by “toughness” keeps the soup balanced instead of mushy.

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Step 3: Layer the Soup (This Is the Secret)

Add First (Longest Cooking)

• Rutabaga
• Turnip
• Butternut squash
• Some carrots

Let these simmer in the broth until partially soft.

Add Next (Medium Cooking)

• Remaining carrots
• Raw meat (if using)

Allow meat to cook gently in the broth.

Add Last (Quick Cooking / Freshness)

• Onion (optional)
• Yellow Squash and/or Zucchini (optional)
• Celery
• Herbs

These only need a short cook to soften and release flavor without breaking down.

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Step 4: Season & Finish

• Salt generously — broth needs proper seasoning
• Add herbs or spices to taste
• Simmer gently until everything is tender and aromatic

Optional:

Blend part or all of the soup for a smoother texture. This is especially helpful for digestion or gut rest.

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Texture Options

• Chunky: hearty and satisfying
• Partially blended: thick, rustic, comforting
• Fully blended: smooth, soothing, very easy to digest

All three work beautifully.

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Tips for Success

• Tough vegetables first, delicate ones last
• Salt is not optional — it brings the soup to life
• This soup improves over time and freezes well
• Don’t overthink amounts — let the pot guide you

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A Recipe You Can Make Your Own

This soup is meant to evolve. You can:

• Swap vegetables based on season
• Use chicken one week, beef the next
• Adjust thickness with more broth or blending

It’s not about perfection — it’s about nourishment.