This Creamy Vegetable Soup is one of my all-time favorites! It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients like zucchini, potatoes, and carrots. The homemade herb croutons add a delightful crunch, making it a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- Onion: 1, finely chopped
- Butter: 30 g (2 tablespoons)
- Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced
- Carrots: 1-2, chopped
- Zucchini: 2, sliced
- Potatoes: 2-3, diced
- Coriander: ½ teaspoon
- Paprika: ½ teaspoon
- Cumin: ½ teaspoon
- Chicken stock: 1 liter (4 cups)
- Cream: 150 ml (⅔ cup)
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Fresh parsley: 1 bunch, finely chopped
For the Herb Croutons:
- Bread (baguette or your choice): 2-3 slices, cubed
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: A pinch
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Finely chop the onion and garlic. Chop the carrots, zucchini, and potatoes into cubes.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and fry for another minute.
- Add Vegetables and Spices:
- Add the chopped carrots and fry for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the zucchini, potatoes, coriander, paprika, and cumin. Mix well to coat the vegetables in the spices.
- Cook the Soup:
- Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Prepare the Croutons:
- While the soup simmers, cut the bread into cubes. Toss with olive oil and a pinch of salt.
- Toast the bread cubes in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy. Set aside.
- Blend the Soup:
- Once the vegetables are tender, blend the soup to your desired consistency using an immersion blender or a regular blender.
- Add Cream and Season:
- Stir in the cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat gently without boiling.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with herb croutons and chopped fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a green salad for a light meal.
- Serve with extra croutons or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
- Enjoy with a side of garlic bread for a hearty dinner.
Cooking Tips
- Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian option.
- Adjust the soup’s consistency by adding more stock or water if it’s too thick.
- Customize the spices to suit your taste by adding chili powder for a spicy kick or curry powder for an exotic twist.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables.
- Cream provides a dose of healthy fats for a rich texture.
- Low in calories and high in fiber, making it a wholesome meal option.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian option: Use vegetable stock.
- Gluten-free option: Ensure the croutons are made with gluten-free bread.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, assuming 4 servings)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fats: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze the soup (without cream) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir in the cream while reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and quick to prepare with everyday ingredients.
- Perfectly creamy and full of flavor with a hint of spice.
- Easy to customize to your dietary preferences.
- Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly.
Conclusion
This Creamy Vegetable Soup is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any table. With its silky texture, aromatic spices, and crunchy croutons, it’s a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or shared with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, replace cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative. - Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Broccoli, celery, or sweet potatoes would work wonderfully. - How do I make the soup thicker?
Use less stock or blend a larger portion of the soup. - Can I use store-bought croutons?
Yes, store-bought croutons save time and are just as delicious. - What can I use instead of parsley?
Try cilantro, chives, or dill for a different flavor profile. - Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze the soup without the cream and add it after reheating. - How do I prevent the cream from curdling?
Ensure the soup is not boiling when adding the cream, and stir constantly. - Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley instead of fresh. - How do I make the soup spicier?
Add a pinch of red chili flakes or cayenne pepper. - What bread works best for croutons?
Baguette, sourdough, or ciabatta are excellent choices for making croutons.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious soup! 😊