As the days grow shorter and the chill of winter begins to settle, there's nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of Hearty Vegetable Soup. This dish doesn't just warm you from the inside out, but it's also packed with nutrients and flavors that remind you of home. Whether you're cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this vegetable soup recipe is a surefire way to bring comfort to your table.
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need for a pot full of hearty goodness:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 leek, cleaned and sliced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 yellow squash, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup cabbage, roughly chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1⁄4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep and Sauté
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onions become translucent.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
- Introduce the leek, potato, zucchini, squash, green beans, and cabbage into the pot.
- Stir well to coat the vegetables with the oil and aromatics.
Step 3: Cook Down
🍲 Note: Cooking the vegetables initially helps to release flavors before adding liquid.
- Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Simmering to Perfection
- Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juice, followed by the vegetable broth.
- Add thyme, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 5: The Final Touch
- Stir in the cannellini beans, and allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes to heat the beans through.
- Remove the bay leaf, and taste the soup. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot. Optionally, you can drizzle some olive oil or sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top for an extra touch of flavor.
Variations and Tips:
- Vegetable Swap: Don’t have one of the ingredients? Substitute with what you have at hand. For example, spinach can replace cabbage, or parsnips can take the place of potatoes.
- Herbs and Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding dried oregano, rosemary, or even a touch of smoked paprika.
- Protein Boost: Add some shredded chicken or tofu for a protein-rich version.
- Make it Creamy: For a creamier soup, blend a portion of the soup after cooking, then return it to the pot.
💡 Note: Soup freezes well. Make a big batch and store some for later to enjoy the convenience of homemade comfort food any time.
Creating this Hearty Vegetable Soup is not just about the warmth it provides on a cold day, but also the joy of preparation and the sense of well-being it brings. With each spoonful, you're not just feeding your body, but also nourishing your soul. This soup encapsulates the essence of comfort in every bowl, and its versatility means you can tailor it to suit your dietary needs or simply to use up whatever you have in your pantry.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
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Yes, this soup is perfect for a slow cooker! After sautéing the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, transfer everything into a slow cooker, add all the other ingredients except for the beans and parsley. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the beans in the last hour of cooking.
What if I prefer a vegetarian or vegan version?
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The recipe is already vegetarian. For a vegan version, simply ensure that the vegetable broth used is vegan-friendly (some brands can contain hidden animal products) and skip the optional parmesan garnish, or use a vegan cheese alternative.
Can I substitute vegetable broth with chicken or beef broth?
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Absolutely! Using chicken or beef broth will give the soup a different flavor profile, but it will still be delicious. Just keep in mind that using beef broth might make it less vegetarian-friendly.
