The Story Behind the Soup
This simple yet soul-warming vegetable soup represents the essence of home cooking – a recipe passed between neighbors, bringing warmth and comfort to the table. With just a few basic ingredients, this soup transforms humble vegetables into a nourishing meal that speaks to the heart of traditional cooking.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stems, thinly sliced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 liters vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional: parsley or thyme)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
Cooking Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-55 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Servings: 4-6
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables Wash and chop all vegetables uniformly. Consistent sizing ensures even cooking and balanced flavor distribution.
- Sauté Aromatics Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Remaining Vegetables Add carrots and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Incorporate Potatoes Add diced potatoes and bay leaf. Stir to combine with other vegetables.
- Add Broth Pour in broth, ensuring vegetables are completely covered. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer Reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Final Touches Remove bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Optional: garnish with fresh herbs.
Expert Cooking Tips
- Use starchy potatoes for a thicker soup
- Don’t overcook vegetables to maintain nutritional value
- Let soup rest for 10 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor
- Can be made in a slow cooker or pressure cooker
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken or beans
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Use vegetable broth, add lentils
- Gluten-Free: Ensure broth is gluten-free
- Herb Variations: Experiment with rosemary or thyme
- Creamy Version: Blend a portion of the soup
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I freeze this soup? Yes, stores well for up to 3 months in freezer.
Q2: How can I make it more filling? Add rice, pasta, or beans during cooking.
Q3: What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Dried herbs work equally well.
Q4: Can children eat this soup? Absolutely! Very kid-friendly and nutritious.
Q5: How do I prevent mushy vegetables? Add softer vegetables later in cooking process.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate in airtight container for 4-5 days
- Cool completely before storing
- Reheat gently, adding splash of broth if needed
- Can be prepared in advance and reheated
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with crusty bread, crackers, or a sprinkle of grated cheese. Perfect for cold days or when feeling under the weather.
Enjoy your comforting soup!