This cream-free vegetable soup is a comforting and healthy choice, with a creamy texture and robust flavors that are sure to satisfy. Enjoy a hearty meal without the added heaviness of cream.
Ingredients:
- Olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 1/2 cup flour
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme and parsley), finely chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups milk (any kind you prefer)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings:
- 4 servings
Calories:
- Approximately 150 kcal per serving
Instructions:
1. Gather All Ingredients:
- Gather all your ingredients and prepare for the cooking process.
2. Adding the Aromatics:
- Heat a large pot over medium heat.
- Pour in some olive oil and add your chopped onions and minced garlic.
3. Sautéing the Aromatics:
- Sauté the onions and garlic until they become soft and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
4. Adding More Vegetables:
- Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot.
- Continue to sauté until these vegetables start to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. Adding Flour and Herbs:
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring constantly to coat them evenly. This will help thicken the soup later.
- Add your chopped herbs at this stage to begin infusing the soup with flavor.
6. Adding Milk:
- Slowly pour in the milk while continuously stirring to incorporate the flour and form a smooth mixture without lumps.
7. Adding Mushrooms:
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot.
- Stir well to combine with the other ingredients.
8. Seasoning the Soup:
- Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Adjust the seasonings to ensure a balanced flavor profile.
9. Simmer:
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Let the soup cook, uncovered, for about 20 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender and the soup has thickened to your liking.
10. Serve:
- Once the soup is ready, give it a final taste and adjust any seasonings if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Garnish with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
- Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese on top for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, you can use a combination of milk and half-and-half.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for more variety.
- Use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup if you prefer a smoother texture.
Nutritional Benefits:
- This soup is packed with vitamins and minerals from a variety of vegetables.
- Low in calories and fat, making it a healthy meal option.
- The use of fresh herbs enhances the flavor without adding extra calories.
Dietary Information:
- Vegan Option: This recipe can be made vegan by using plant-based milk.
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a lighter alternative to traditional creamy soups.
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Versatile and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and herbs.
Conclusion:
This Cream-Free Vegetable Soup is a delicious and healthy addition to your meal repertoire. With its creamy texture and robust flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the balance of flavors and the satisfying texture of this delightful soup!