Hearty Mushroom and Vegetable Soup

This hearty mushroom and vegetable soup is packed with nutritious ingredients and rich flavors. It’s a perfect meal to warm you up and delight your taste buds.

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 3 onions (2 for the broth, 1 for frying)
• 2 carrots (1 for the broth, 1 for frying)
• 2 cloves garlic (1 for the broth, 1 for frying)
• Water
• Black peppercorns
• Olive oil
• Mushrooms (your choice, e.g., button, cremini, or shiitake)
• 2 sticks celery
• 1 can canned chopped tomatoes
• 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Dried basil
• Dried oregano
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• 100 g spinach

Directions

1. Prepare the Broth:
   1. In a large pot, add 2 roughly chopped onions, 1 chopped carrot, and 1 whole garlic clove.
   2. Fill the pot with water and add a few black peppercorns.
   3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes to create the broth.
   4. Strain the broth and discard the vegetables.
2. Prepare the Vegetables and Mushrooms:
   1. While the broth is cooking, heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
   2. Finely chop the remaining onion and carrot. Add to the pan and sauté until softened.
   3. Add the finely chopped garlic and continue to sauté for another minute.
   4. Add the mushrooms (sliced or chopped as desired) and cook until browned.
   5. Chop the celery sticks and add them to the pan, stirring occasionally.
3. Combine and Cook the Soup:
   1. Add the sautéed vegetables and mushrooms to the strained broth.
   2. Add the canned chopped tomatoes and white beans. Stir to combine.
   3. Season with salt, black pepper, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using.
   4. Simmer the soup over medium heat for 30-45 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Finish the Soup:
   1. Add the spinach to the soup and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until wilted.
   2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve hot, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side for sprinkling.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips

• Use a variety of mushrooms for a richer flavor.
• Add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Nutritional Benefits

• High in fiber and protein from the beans.
• Packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.

Dietary Information

• Vegetarian.
• Can be made vegan by omitting the Parmesan or using a vegan cheese alternative.

Storage Tips

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a hearty, comforting soup that’s perfect for any time of year.
• The combination of fresh vegetables, beans, and mushrooms provides a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Conclusion

Enjoy this delicious mushroom and vegetable soup as a wholesome and flavorful meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Bon appétit!