This Vegetable and Potato Soup with Crispy Bread is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish perfect for chilly days. Packed with tender potatoes, carrots, zucchini, and other fresh vegetables, the soup is enhanced by the crispy fried bread that adds texture and crunch to each spoonful. The addition of smoked paprika and garlic brings a savory richness to the soup, making it a satisfying and delicious meal.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
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Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
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Total Time: 45 minutes
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Yield: Serves 4
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Cuisine: Comfort Food, Soup
Full List of Ingredients
For the Soup:
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5-7 potatoes, peeled and diced
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1 onion, chopped
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1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)
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1 carrot, peeled and chopped
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2-3 zucchini, chopped
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700ml (2.5 cups) water or vegetable broth
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100g cherry tomatoes, chopped
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1 cucumber, grated (optional)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Salt, to taste
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Black pepper, to taste
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Smoked paprika, to taste
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2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Crispy Bread:
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Bread (for making croutons)
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Olive oil (for frying bread)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion, carrot, and zucchini. Grate the cucumber and chop the cherry tomatoes. Mince the garlic and set all the vegetables aside. Fresh parsley will be used for garnish, so chop it finely.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped carrot and zucchini to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add Potatoes and Water/Vegetable Broth
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine. Pour in the 700ml of water (or vegetable broth) and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and fully cooked.
4. Make the Crispy Bread
While the soup is simmering, prepare the crispy bread. Cut the bread into small cubes or strips. Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the bread cubes and fry them until golden brown and crispy, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat and set aside.
5. Combine the Soup and Garnish
Once the potatoes are tender and the soup is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or smoked paprika if needed. Add the chopped tomatoes and grated cucumber to the soup for an added freshness. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly chopped parsley. Add the crispy bread croutons on top or serve them on the side for added crunch and texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 300
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Fat: 10g
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Saturated Fat: 1g
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Cholesterol: 0mg
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Sodium: 400mg
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Carbohydrates: 47g
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Fiber: 6g
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Sugars: 7g
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Protein: 6g
Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Vegetable and potato soups are a staple in many cuisines around the world. This simple yet hearty dish is often made with whatever fresh vegetables are available, and it has become a comforting choice during the colder months. The crispy bread croutons are a popular addition in many European and Mediterranean soups, adding texture and flavor that complements the soft and hearty soup base.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Comforting and Hearty: This soup is filling and perfect for a cozy meal on a cold day.
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Simple Ingredients: With easy-to-find vegetables and pantry staples, this soup is a budget-friendly and satisfying option.
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Crispy and Flavorful: The addition of crispy bread croutons adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup.
Health Benefits
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Potatoes provide a good source of vitamins C and B6, fiber, and potassium, all of which support overall health.
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Zucchini is low in calories and high in water content, helping to keep you hydrated while providing vitamins and minerals.
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Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health and immune function.
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Olive Oil is a source of healthy fats that promote heart health.
Serving Suggestions
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With a Salad: Serve the soup alongside a light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
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With Grilled Cheese: Pair with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting and filling meal.
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For Extra Protein: Serve the soup with a side of grilled chicken, turkey, or tofu for a complete protein-packed meal.
Cooking Tips
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For a Creamier Soup: If you prefer a creamier soup, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender and then return it to the pot.
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Customize the Vegetables: You can easily swap in other vegetables, such as bell peppers, spinach, or green beans, depending on your preferences.
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Add More Herbs: Try adding thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for additional depth of flavor in the soup.
Variations to Try
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Vegan Version: Make this soup vegan by using vegetable broth and skipping the butter or using a plant-based alternative.
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Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup for a spicy kick.
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Add Beans: For added protein and fiber, add a can of white beans or chickpeas to the soup.
Conclusion
This Vegetable and Potato Soup with Crispy Bread is the ultimate comfort food. It’s packed with nutritious vegetables, has a rich and flavorful broth, and is topped with crunchy, golden bread croutons that make every spoonful satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner, a healthy lunch, or a filling snack, this recipe is sure to please.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I use vegetable broth instead of water?
Yes, using vegetable broth will add more flavor to the soup.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, the soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It will last up to 2 months in the freezer.
4. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add or substitute vegetables such as spinach, peas, or celery for variety.
5. Can I make this soup spicy?
Yes, you can add chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the soup for extra heat.
6. How do I store leftover crispy bread?
Store leftover crispy bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
7. How do I make this soup gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to use gluten-free bread for the crispy topping.
8. Can I make this soup creamy?
Yes, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to the soup to make it creamier.
9. Can I use other types of bread?
Yes, you can use any type of bread, such as whole grain, sourdough, or baguette, for the crispy topping.
10. How do I make the soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, mash a portion of the potatoes or blend part of the soup to create a creamier texture.