Soups are typically liquid or semi-liquid dishes that are made by simmering vegetables, meats, or grains in a flavor-packed broth or water-based liquid. Some common ingredients used in soups include beans, lentils, chicken, beef, tomatoes, potatoes, onions, carrots, celery, and a variety of spices and herbs. Popular soup varieties include chicken noodle soup, vegetable soup, lentil soup, minestrone, clam chowder, and tomato soup. Soups can be served as an appetizer or a main course and are often enjoyed for their comfort factor and ability to warm you up on a cold day.