OK, I was making these by doing soaking, which I read about both here and on the website for Medifast. However, today I made the beef stew by following the directions on the package, and it came out the best of any of my attempts.

The only thing I had to change was the microwave times. The instructions say 2-1/2 minutes for the first microwaving--I only did 2 minutes. Then when you microwave again, the instructions say 1 minute--I only did 30 seconds. The reason I used less time was that my microwave is 1200 watt. And the stew was boiling just fine both times.

I let it sit the amount of time it said on the package.

It came out thick and meaty, without any "uncooked" bits.

I'm going to try just following the directions with the other soups and see how they come out.

OH! One more thing! You really do need a deep microwavable container for the beef stew. We got soup all over the first time. I used a 1 quart (4 cup) measuring cup, and while the stew was boiling, it came up about 2/3 of the way.

Jay

Yesterday I fixed the chicken noodle on the stovetop. I brought it to a boil and let it sit for 30 minutes. It was the perfect temperature and everything was done. I think I'll do that from now on--prepare ours in the morning, put into leftover dishes and then reheat at lunch.

You really should let the chicken and rice soup soak. I had to heat-n-eat once this week without the soak, and discovered hard rice grains. Not pleasant. :P

I have to laugh at your post, Jay. "Breaking news! Following the directions produces desirable results!"

Funny, I've actually never tried following the directions. Just jumped right in and started soaking for a couple hours, then microwaving for 1.5 minutes. But you have to think, they have those directions for a reason... They won't TRY to mislead us... Maybe tomorrow I'll live on the edge and see what follow-the-directions chili tastes like!

SpinDizzie, thanks for the tip about chicken & rice. I didn't order that one yet.

I know, it's shocking about directions...

Jay

I've found some deep corelle dishes at local department stores that have lids and handles. Perfect for heating and eating- MF soups & hot drinks

I love that Corelle mug - perfect for taking the soups to work for lunch!

I just had the Maryland Crab Soup for breakfast. Followed the directions on the package and it's delicious. Hubby wanted some but I wouldn't share.
Chicken and Rice is in the line up for tomorrow.

I had the crab soup a couple days ago...kinda of bland, IMO. The chicken soups have much more flavor. The tomato soup, while kind of a funky color, tasted fine. Today is cream of broccoli. I've determined that the tomato and broccoli soups don't really need to be prepared in advance like the chicken soups. And the cream of broccoli, because I made it on the stove, stuck to the pan a bit. Must have some real cream in there?

The "creamy" soups have whey protein rather than soy protein, so maybe that accounts for it. Check the nutritional info on the box.

Jay

I tried something new the other day - I had the tomato soup cold, and added some salsa and hot sauce. Almost gazpacho!

The only soup I really like so far is the beef stew. The chicken noodle is meh, and the chicken and rice, not a fan. I do like the tomato soup because to me, it's a base flavor. If I am craving hot, I add cayenne or chile powder, Tabasco, oregano, etc. If I'm craving Italian, I use Italian seasoning mix, garlic, parsley, etc. Dunno. I'm experimenting with the soup cracker recipes, so maybe I'll hit on something interesting.

Keep us posted on any good soup ideas you find, Dizzie. I ordered way too much soup last month, forgetting that summer would arrive before I ate it all. At least I can use up the tomato as faux gazpacho.

I love the idea of faux gazpacho. Peppers, cukes and scallions, all being allowed could be really tasty in that. I'll have to try it.

Hi Jay,

I just tried the Maryland Crab soup, and it was very tasty and satisfying. I didn't detect any actual crab in it, with my former chef's palate, however the Old Bay included really kicked it up a notch, as Emeril would shout!... and the few bits of corn and peas were a pleasant added flavor bonus. I also cook the soups on the stove top in a non-stick Tfal pan and let them sit 5 min. after cooking. This cools them to an edible temp. and also fully tenderizes noodles / rice / veggies. Thanks for a great post! Let's keep updating here with food tips to help us achieve ultimate success and a happier, healthier mind and body!!! Best wishes!!!!