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New England Soup Factory Cookbook: More Than 100 Recipes from the Nation's Best Purveyor of Fine Soup

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New England Soup Factory soups are like no other soups, and now you can recreate them in your own home. Soups will no longer be the appetizers or side dishes thanks to the delicious and easy-to-follow recipes found in the?New England Soup Factory Cookbook.

With more?than 100+ of the best soup recipes Boston has to offer accompanied by fun stories and beautiful full-color photography, get ready to delight all your friends at your next gathering. The collection of soups in the New England Soup Factory Cookbook are both?scrumptious and?versatile to all occasions. 

The New England Soup Factory is the legendary Boston-based restaurant offering a mix of soups, salads, and sandwiches so good that it claimed the Best of Boston award four times. Owner Marjorie Druker gives you access to all the?ingredients, recipes, and cooking methods that put the New England Soup Factory on the map.

The New England Soup Factory Cookbook contains 100+ of Boston's best-tasting traditional and creative soup recipes such as...


New England Clam Chowder 
Wild Mushroom and Barley Soup 
Curried Crab and Coconut Soup 
Raspberry-Nectarine Gazpacho 
Cucumber-Buttermilk Soup 
The New England Soup Factory Cookbook also offers recipes perfect for...


Holiday parties and family dinners 
Church potlucks and school get-togethers 
Work picnics and lunches 
Tailgating, Super Bowl parties, and any sports event 
Fall evenings and summer nights 
Cookouts and pool parties 
4th of July, Thanksgiving, Easter, and Christmas 
This cookbook is the ideal Christmas or birthday gift for any chef regardless of experience. Don't forget to consider it while you plan your next Thanksgiving or Easter family meal.

242 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2007

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About the author

Marjorie Druker

2 books1 follower

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5 stars
395 (44%)
4 stars
308 (34%)
3 stars
130 (14%)
2 stars
49 (5%)
1 star
10 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
Profile Image for Holly.
1,560 reviews34 followers
June 6, 2011
This is my favorite cookbook. What makes this cookbook stand out to me is the fact that I have made so many recipes in the book and liked them all. Soups are a fabulous item to keep on hand in the freezer. I like to have a quart or two of the Artichoke Bisque in my freezer at all times because it is my favorite. All I have to do when last minute company stops by is thaw out a quart and make the garnish. My guests get a gourmet flavor and homemade meal with very little fuss on my end.

Soups are also great for bringing to sick friends and relatives, new parents, care packages and potluck dinners. I HIGHLY recommend adding this to your collection. It will soon become a favorite.
Profile Image for Yaaresse.
2,166 reviews16 followers
October 10, 2020
Had this is print some years ago. Am now replacing the print version with the Kindle version.
Some of the recipes are quite rich and some have ingredients I can't find locally, but it's worth it for the chicken soups alone.
Profile Image for Lorraine.
1,161 reviews89 followers
November 3, 2017
Growing up, soup was always our first course at dinner. There is nothing better than hot soup on all kinds of days. Game days, reunion days, first day back to school day, & especially I-don’t-feel-well-day. Marjorie Druker and Clara Silverstein in their New England Soup Factory Cookbook provide recipes for the different seasons. Some sound yummy, but others I do wonder how the ingredients translate to soup. Under the heading yummy soups/stews I would place Hearty and Rich Beef Stew, Chili Con Carne, Beef and Barley Soup among others. Under the I Do Wonder heading Artichoke Bisque ( even though I love artichokes), Curried Mussel Bisque, and Wild Maine Blueberry Soup (love Maine Blueberries too!) would be found. The photography is superb, and The New England Soup Factory is an extremely successful place to get many kinds of soup in Boston, MA. The authors’ include some sandwiches and salads too as well as some ‘anecdotes ‘ along the way. 31/2-4 stars.
Profile Image for Robin.
1,386 reviews9 followers
July 28, 2015
Truly delicious recipes. However, they lose a point for ingredient count and another point for calorie count. Anybody can make good soup with that much cream and cheese.

However, the flu-chasing chicken soup is awesome!
Profile Image for Riona.
192 reviews95 followers
November 4, 2010
I've had this cookbook for a while but haven't cooked from it that much. Part of that is the way it's organized: some chapters are by main ingredients ("A Chicken in Every Pot", "Say Cheese, Please"), some by type of soup ("Championship Chowders", "Childhood Favorites"), and then there are also chapters by season ("Autumn Flavors", "Winter's Brew", "Spring In a Bowl", "Summer Soothers"). This means you have to look in multiple places to find a simple recipe -- is gazpacho in with "Tomato Teasers" or in "Summer Soothers"? A badly organized table of contents is one of my cookbook pet peeves.

I think I've only made one of these recipes so far, but it was great: Grandma Florrie's Chicken Soup with Matzo Balls. This was some of the best matzoh ball soup I've had. I like her trick of using club soda to make the matzoh balls extra light. Though mine fell apart a little, I think that was mostly user error and they were still great. I omitted the veal bone and the broth still had plenty of flavor.

I'm looking forward to cooking some more of these soups. I already have a bunch tagged with post-it notes: Spinach, Feta Cheese, & Toasted Pine Nut Soup, Artichoke Bisque, Cheddar-Corn Chowder with Bacon & Scallions, and Sweet Green Pea Soup with Fresh Mint. I'll report back!
Profile Image for Angie.
46 reviews
February 23, 2014
This is a solidly good collection of soup recipes. We cooked from it for cook book club and every recipe turned out great with very few changes to be made in the future. Try the eggplant parm, indonesian carrot, lima and barley, porcini and pumpkin yellow split pea. Delicious!
Profile Image for Katy.
2,218 reviews238 followers
November 21, 2013
Been making recipes from this book all year.
Fabulous.
Have not found one yet that we have not loved.

Profile Image for Janelle.
Author 2 books30 followers
July 27, 2015
My husband bought me this for a dollar. I wish he hadn't. The recipes look so delicious, but sadly due to severe dietary restrictions I can't eat them. It's very depressing.
226 reviews
September 17, 2026
The New England Soup Factory Cookbook is a wonderful collection for anyone who loves comforting, homemade soups. With more than 100 recipes, it offers an impressive variety of flavors and styles, making it easy to find something appealing for almost any occasion.

I especially enjoyed the balance between familiar classics and creative combinations. The recipes show how simple ingredients can be transformed into hearty, satisfying meals with the right preparation and seasoning. From rich and comforting options to lighter soups filled with vegetables, there is plenty of inspiration for everyday cooking.

The instructions are approachable and make the recipes feel achievable for home cooks. I also appreciate how the cookbook encourages experimenting with different ingredients while still providing a reliable foundation for creating flavorful soups.

What makes this book particularly enjoyable is its focus on soup as a complete and satisfying meal rather than simply a side dish. It is the kind of cookbook that inspires you to keep a pot simmering on a chilly day and try something new whenever the mood strikes.

Overall, this is a practical, inviting, and versatile cookbook that deserves a place in the kitchen of any soup lover. The wide selection of recipes, comforting flavors, and approachable style make it an enjoyable resource to return to again and again. Five stars!
609 reviews
Read
October 2, 2026
★★★★★

*New England Soup Factory Cookbook* is a wonderful collection for anyone who loves a warm, satisfying bowl of homemade soup. With more than 100 recipes, it offers an impressive variety of flavors and styles, making it easy to find something appealing for every season and occasion.

I especially enjoyed the comforting character of the recipes. The collection shows how versatile soup can be, from hearty and substantial options to lighter preparations and creamy favorites. The recipes also provide plenty of inspiration for home cooks who want to move beyond the usual everyday soup choices.

What makes this cookbook particularly enjoyable is the sense of care and craftsmanship behind the recipes. It encourages readers to appreciate soup as a thoughtfully prepared meal rather than simply a quick side dish. The variety makes it a book that can be returned to again and again.

Overall, this is an excellent addition to a home cook's collection, especially for anyone who enjoys homemade comfort food. Five stars for its impressive selection, inviting recipes, and celebration of the simple pleasure of a delicious bowl of soup!
Profile Image for Nancy Burkey.
Author 1 book29 followers
December 12, 2019
I know, I don't usually review cookbooks, but this one I really love and want to share.

Sadly, I lost all of my cookbooks when we lost our home in the California wildfires-- many of which were out of date and could not be replaced. So, my sons sent me this soup cookbook, having remembered their childhood during which I loved making warm soups for winter nights, or even taking 4 different soups up to the mountains when we skied so everyone could have their favorite! Well, this cookbook is absolutely wonderful!! I have tried many of the recipes in this cookbook and they are easy to make, yet the quality for dinner parties. We keep at least 3 in the freezer at all times.  I've just ordered 3 more copies, to be sent this holidays to my boys so they can enjoy them in their own homes. What a fabulous find!
Profile Image for Danielle Booey.
1,284 reviews13 followers
November 6, 2020
Wow! This book is so tasty looking. There are so many great recipes for soups, basques, stews, and sandwiches. I think my mouth watered the entire time I was reading it!

I am most excited to try:
1. Lobster bisque
2. Artichoke bisque
3. Spicy shrimp and rice soup (although I might need a substitute of some sort for the shrimp because I am not a huge fan...)
4. Day off sandwiches (the picture!! YUM)
5. Russian Mustard dressing
6. Grandma Florrie’s Chicken Soup with Matzo Balls

But seriously, there are so many yummy looking options as well as easy recipes for making different stocks and some cute personal stories that add just enough personal touch from the author without overwhelming the reader. I might have to add this book to my small but treasured cookbook collection!
867 reviews7 followers
February 3, 2023
I love soup. I have a friend who hates to make soup. She says hers comes out horrible. I will suggest she try this book. My method of making soup is clean out the fridge and us whatever meat and veggies are there. Now I will have to try the ones in this book. They are imaginative, sound delicious. She gives a brief description of her business and why she created this recipe. Her and her husband own soup stores. So her recipes are for 10-12 servings. I will have to cut them down or my hubby and I will be eating one for days on end. Her writing style makes it enjoyable to read.She gives very clear and easy to follow directions.
Highly recommend. Have to go shopping. Onion soup will be first. Just have to find the cheese in my small town.
Profile Image for Kayes Hasan.
597 reviews
October 29, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Ultimate Cookbook for Soup Lovers!

New England Soup Factory Cookbook is a wonderful collection of comforting, flavorful recipes that makes homemade soup feel both exciting and approachable. With more than 100 recipes to choose from, there’s plenty of variety for every season and occasion. I love how this cookbook inspires you to create delicious, hearty soups right in your own kitchen, whether you're looking for a cozy weeknight meal, a satisfying lunch, or something special to serve guests. It’s a fantastic resource for discovering new flavor combinations and turning simple ingredients into something truly delicious. A must-have for anyone who loves homemade soups and comforting meals!
Profile Image for Mutated Reviewer.
948 reviews17 followers
February 14, 2025
As someone who loves soup, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this book. It has a beautiful cover, and I got it free through amazon prime, so you really can't lose if you're debating getting this book. Falling in love with soup very early in life, the only obvious thing in the author's life was to make a soup business, and that's how the New England Soup Factory got its start.

Check out my full review here!

https://mutatedlibrary.wordpress.com/...
Profile Image for Deborah  Cleaves.
1,336 reviews
February 21, 2023
generous.

A surfeit of soups with a soupçon of sandwiches and salads to go with. The only problem with this cookbook is the generosity of the recipes — from 8-16 one and one half cup servings per recipe. Great for large families and parties; less useful if you’re in a one or two person household. The recipes are not easily reduced but are rich with flavors in balance. So gather friends and family and try a new soup!
35 reviews1 follower
February 18, 2026
Great recipes, but the photos feel really outdated

I actually liked the recipes in this book a lot — they’re solid, easy to follow, and the flavors come out great. But the pictures just didn’t match the quality of the recipes at all. A lot of them look really dated, almost like they were pulled from an older cookbook, and it threw off the vibe for me.

The recipes themselves are worth using, but the visuals definitely could’ve used a refresh.
Profile Image for Kathleen.
4,032 reviews6 followers
January 21, 2020
Maybe I shouldn't have read this while I was hungry, but all of these recipes sound delicious! I even got a few ideas for sandwiches and salads. The personal stories at the start of each chapter add fun flavor to the book without taking up a lot of space.
Profile Image for T.
1,039 reviews8 followers
January 18, 2023
This was a title that grew on me as I read on. I was very skeptical the first couple of chapters but then came upon some great recipes I would try. The inclusion of salad and sandwich recipes was pretty genius.
Profile Image for Marilyn.
889 reviews16 followers
February 4, 2017
Reading this book was no match for cooking and eating the recipes from this book, but it was highly enjoyable nevertheless!
Profile Image for Mary C.
816 reviews
July 21, 2017
I ordered this cookbook for the Artichoke Bisque recipe and it is to die for!! I know sometimes you can find recipes online but there's nothing like a good cookbook read!
Profile Image for Victoria.
Author 2 books10 followers
July 28, 2019
My favorite cookbook! The recipes in this are so delicious and easy to make. Some of the recipes make an enormous amount of soup though, so be aware of the amounts before you start making anything.
186 reviews1 follower
May 20, 2020
Great food in hear, we turn to this book often for a variety of really wonderful soups that the whole family enjoys and also our neighbors and friends :)
13 reviews
January 30, 2024
I will not read this book again.

So basic I did not learn one thing. Don’t waste your money you can watch your mom make these dishes better
Profile Image for Willow.
6 reviews
December 17, 2025
I need to revisit this one. I think I've only made the Lima Bean and Barley Soup, but it's been a staple for me since. I'd not had lima beans before, and I'm so glad I gave it a try! It's wonderful.
Profile Image for Julie.
6 reviews
July 23, 2019
Read to this one now and really enjoying it. I love writing style and everything Describe in this book.
Profile Image for Mysteryfan.
1,998 reviews25 followers
January 18, 2022
I like reading cookbooks and thinking about making the dishes. A soup cookbook is extremely my thing, as I make soups and stews often. The stories in this one are fun. The book could use better organization and some of the soups are too caloric but others looked worthwhile.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews