This hearty vegetable soup, enriched with the flavors of mushrooms and served with crispy herb croutons, is a perfect dish for a cozy meal. It’s packed with nutritious vegetables and seasoned to perfection, making it a wholesome and satisfying option.
Ingredients:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 20 grams butter
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 leek, sliced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 150 grams mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Red pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 3 slices of bread
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for croutons)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for croutons)
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (for croutons)
Directions:
- Prepare the Soup:
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Add the celery, leek, carrot, and red pepper to the pot. Stir occasionally and cook until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add the potatoes and enough water to cover all the vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Cook the Mushrooms:
- In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until they are golden brown.
- Add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper to the mushrooms. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked mushrooms to the soup pot.
- Blend and Simmer:
- Blend the soup slightly with a hand mixer for a smoother texture, if desired.
- Simmer the soup for another 10 minutes. Add the chopped parsley and stir well. The soup is ready!
- Make the Croutons:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Brush the bread slices with olive oil, sprinkle with red pepper flakes and Italian herbs.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until crispy.
- Serve:
- Serve the soup hot with the fragrant croutons on the side.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair the soup with a fresh green salad or a simple side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top for extra richness.
Cooking Tips:
- Use a variety of mushrooms for a richer flavor.
- For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in.
Nutritional Benefits:
- This soup is packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
- Mushrooms provide antioxidants and boost immunity.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe can be made vegan by substituting butter with a plant-based alternative.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread for the croutons.
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a comforting and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare.
- The combination of fresh vegetables and herbs creates a delightful flavor.
- The herb croutons add a satisfying crunch and extra taste.
Conclusion:
This vegetable soup with mushroom and herb croutons is a perfect dish for any season. It’s easy to make, loaded with healthy ingredients, and incredibly flavorful. Serve it with the crispy croutons for a meal that’s sure to warm your heart and nourish your body. Enjoy! Bon appétit!