When it comes to comforting meals, few things are as satisfying as a warm bowl of vegetable soup. Dubbed as “medicine for the stomach” by many, this soup combines a medley of vegetables with a rich, flavorful broth, making it perfect for soothing any ailment or simply enjoying a cozy night in. This recipe also includes homemade croutons, adding a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the soft, tender vegetables.
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 1 Onion, chopped
- 2 Leeks, cleaned and sliced
- 2 stalks of Celery, diced
- 1 Carrot, diced
- 1 Red Pepper, diced
- 1 Zucchini, diced
- 2 Potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cloves of Garlic, minced
- 1 Chili Pepper, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- Salt and Black Pepper, to taste
- Thyme, a few sprigs or ½ teaspoon dried
- 1 liter Vegetable Broth
- Parsley, chopped for garnish
For the Croutons:
- 3 slices of Bread, cubed
- Olive Oil
- Salt
- Dried Garlic
- Red Pepper Flakes
- Oregano
Instructions:
- Prepare the Soup:
- In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
- Add the leeks, celery, carrot, red pepper, zucchini, and potatoes. Cook for a few minutes, stirring often, to let the flavors start to meld.
- Stir in the minced garlic, chili pepper, and season with salt, black pepper, and thyme. Allow the mixture to simmer covered for 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender.
- Prepare the Croutons:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil, salt, dried garlic, red pepper flakes, and oregano. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for about 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
- Finalize the Soup:
- Check the vegetables for tenderness. Once cooked, adjust the seasoning if necessary and stir in chopped parsley for added flavor and color.
- Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each with a generous amount of crunchy homemade croutons.
Health Benefits: This vegetable soup is loaded with nutrients. Each vegetable brings its own set of vitamins and minerals, contributing to a well-rounded nutritional profile. The high fiber content aids in digestion, while the antioxidants help combat inflammation. The inclusion of chili pepper adds a touch of capsaicin, known for its pain-relieving properties.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy this vegetable soup as a standalone meal or pair it with a side salad for an extra dose of greens. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, making it ideal for meal prep.
Conclusion: This vegetable soup recipe offers more than just comfort; it provides a healing, nutritious meal that’s perfect for any day of the year. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply in need of a warm, satisfying dish, this soup is sure to lift your spirits and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy the simple pleasures of homemade soup and the added delight of crunchy croutons.