Bouja Soup

A thick and rustic Midwestern stew traditionally made in large batches with a variety of meats and garden vegetables. Slow-cooked for hours, the ingredients break down into a rich, savory consistency that is incredibly hearty and warming. It is a community favorite, often served at local festivals and large family gatherings.

Prep 15 minCook 120 minTotal 135 minUpdated Jul 3, 2026135 minLow CarbGluten FreeKeto Friendly

A thick and rustic Midwestern stew traditionally made in large batches with a variety of meats and garden vegetables. Slow-cooked for hours, the ingredients break down into a rich, savory consistency that is incredibly hearty and warming. It is a community favorite, often served at local festivals and large family gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 85 g Chicken
  • 0.09 oz Beef Stew Meat, diced
  • 2 stalks Celery, chopped
  • 1 cup Cabbage, chopped
  • 16 oz Onion, chopped
  • 1/4 cup Vegetable, mixed
  • 1/4 cup Rutabaga
  • 1/4 cup Lima Bean, drained
  • 1/4 cup Yellow Bean, cut drained
  • 1 medium Tomato, crushed
  • 1/4 tsp Salt Pepper
  • 4 cubes Pickling Spice

Instructions

  1. Boil chicken and beef in a large soup pot 15 to 20 minutes, until tender. Use enough water to cover. Remove meat and cut into bite-size pieces. Discard fat and skin.
  2. Add celery, cabbage and onions to broth and boil for 10 to 15 minutes or until almost tender. Add frozen vegetable mix, rutabagas, lima beans, yellow beans, and tomatoes and continue to cook until soup has reached desired thickness.
  3. Add meat and simmer until meat breaks apart, stirring occasionally with a wooden paddle. Salt and pepper to taste. IMPORTANT: Put dry pickling spice in a strong cloth bag and tie firmly with string so it will not come apart. Drop the bag into the simmering bouja, plunging it in and out for a short time until the soup tastes just right for you.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Storage

Store safely

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within a few days when appropriate for the ingredients.

Meal prep

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Tracking

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