Looking for a quick and easy homemade vegetable soup recipe that’s both nutritious and delicious? This vegetable soup is packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner or looking for a meal prep option for the week, this soup has got you covered. It’s versatile, easy to make, and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
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Ingredients:
- 1 large onion, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 stalks celery, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- Olive oil, for sautéing
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/4 head of cabbage, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 can (about 400g) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or your favorite stock)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup frozen peas
Directions:
- Prepare the Base:
- In a large soup pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Stir in the tomato paste.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and the onions are translucent.
- Add Spices and Tomatoes:
- To the softened vegetables, add the minced garlic, fennel seeds, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about a minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes and stir to combine.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Add the diced potatoes and chopped cabbage to the pot.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaves.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then partially cover the pot with its lid. Let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Finish the Soup:
- Once the potatoes are tender, add the frozen peas to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the peas are heated through.
- Remove the bay leaves from the soup before serving.
- Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy!
- This soup is perfect for making in large batches and keeping in the refrigerator for quick meals throughout the week.
Additional Tips:
- Rich Flavor: For a richer flavor, sauté the tomato paste with the vegetables for a couple of minutes before adding the broth.
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for more variety and nutrition.
- Umami Boost: If not vegan, you might consider adding a parmesan rind during simmering for extra umami flavor.
Nutritional Information
Benefits:
This homemade vegetable soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:
- Onions: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, onions support immune health and reduce inflammation.
- Carrots: High in beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamins A and K, carrots are great for eye health and digestion.
- Celery: Contains antioxidants and vitamins, promoting overall health and aiding digestion.
- Potatoes: Provide carbohydrates, fiber, and essential vitamins, adding bulk and creaminess to the soup.
- Cabbage: Packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, cabbage supports immune function and digestive health.
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties and ability to enhance flavor.
- Tomatoes: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, folate, and antioxidants, supporting heart health and reducing inflammation.
- Peas: Provide protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, contributing to muscle health and digestion.
Tips and Variations
- Protein Addition: Add cooked beans, lentils, or tofu for extra protein.
- Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or basil can be added for extra flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your desired level of heat.
- Creamy Texture: For a creamy version, blend a portion of the soup before adding the peas.
Serving Suggestions
- Main Course: Enjoy the vegetable soup as a main course with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread.
- Appetizer: Serve the soup as a tasty appetizer for a dinner party or family gathering.
- Side Dish: This soup can also complement other main courses such as grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty sandwich.
Cooking Tips
- Even Chopping: Ensure all vegetables are chopped into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Simmering: Simmer the soup gently to allow flavors to meld and develop.
- Taste Testing: Taste the soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.