Hearty Harvest Vegetable Soup a Bowl of Comfort
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a bowl of sunshine in a bowl? Vegetable Soup is hearty and feels like a warm hug on a cold day.
This isn’t just any homemade vegetable soup ; it's packed with flavour.
Brief Overview
This classic comfort food soup recipe has been around for ages. Almost every culture has its own version of heart soup .
It's super easy vegetable soup to make, only takes about an hour and makes enough to feed a whole family, or give you leftovers for lunch.
Main Benefits
This nutritious soup recipe is brimming with vitamins. It's a perfect winter vegetable soup to get you through the flu season.
Honestly, what makes this best vegetable soup recipe so special is how versatile it is. Chuck in whatever veggies you have lying around.
Why This Soup Rocks
So, you know, making veggie soups and stews can feel a bit daunting. But trust me, this one is a doddle.
The key is to build up the flavour bit by bit, starting with a good base of onions, carrots, and celery.
I always roast my veggies first for added richness!
This potato and veggie soup base simmers into something magical. Then add the rest of the goodness. It's a great way to use up all those leftover veggies.
Freezer Friendly? You Bet!
And the best part? This freezer vegetable soup is fantastic batch cooked. Just portion it up, freeze, and you've got a healthy, homemade meal ready whenever you need it.
Honestly, you can’t go wrong. Enjoy!
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Started!
Okay, so Vegetable Soup is hearty and nourishing, right? This isn't some fancy pants recipe. It’s all about wholesome goodness.
I've been making this for years and honestly, it always hits the spot. Whether you are making this for your weekly meal preps or going for comfort food soup recipes , it is the best recipe.
So, let's dive into what you'll need for my Hearty Harvest Heart Soup .
Main Ingredients: The Veggie Rainbow!
Let's break it down like this. First we need the essentials and then we need to bring our best vegetable soup recipe to life.
- Aromatic Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced (about 1 1/2 cups) Get a firm one, not all squishy!
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced (about 1 cup) Look for vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, diced (about 1 cup)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh is always best!
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Veggie Boost:
- 8 cups vegetable broth (2 liters) Good quality broth makes ALL the difference.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained (400g)
- 1 large russet potato, peeled and diced (about 2 cups)
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup chopped zucchini or yellow squash
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
- 1/2 cup pearl barley or orzo pasta (optional, for added heartiness)
- Finishing Flair:
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Seasoning is key, people!
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Seasoning Notes: Spice it Up!
Forget boring. Thyme and rosemary is a classic combo. But don't be afraid to experiment! A dash of smoked paprika can add depth.
Or, Homemade vegetable soup can get a nice kick with a pinch of cayenne. No rosemary? No problem! Use marjoram or oregano instead.
Salt and pepper are your friends. So don't be shy!.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
You don't need fancy kit here. Just the basics to build this nutritious soup recipes .
- Large stockpot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Don't have a stockpot? A large saucepan will do. No fancy chef's knife? Any decent knife will work, just be careful!.
This Easy vegetable soup is super versatile. So, feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking. Get creative and make it your own!
Cooking Method: Simmering the Perfect Heart Soup
Okay, let’s get simmering! This is all about how to create the best Heart Soup from scratch. And honestly , it's easier than you think.
We're not talking about some fancy Michelin star technique. Just good old-fashioned simmering to bring out all those incredible flavors. I used to think making Homemade vegetable soup was so difficult, but now I make it all the time.
This method is great for any Veggie Soups And Stews .
Prep Like a Pro
First, get your mise en place sorted. That's fancy French for "everything in its place." Dice your onion, carrots, celery that's about 1 1/2 cups of onion, 1 cup of carrots, and 1 cup of celery.
Mince your garlic. Having everything ready saves so much time. Next, peel and dice one large potato. Time saving tip : chop your tougher veggies first.
And always , always remember safety! Keep your fingers away from the blade. You know? A dull knife is a dangerous knife.
Simmer to Success: step-by-step
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté your onion, carrots, and celery for about 5- 7 minutes , stirring now and then.
- Add the garlic, 1 teaspoon dried thyme , 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary , and maybe a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, but I like a little kick!). Cook for 1 minute , until fragrant.
- Pour in 8 cups of vegetable broth and add one (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes . Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes .
- Add the potato and 1/2 cup pearl barley . Simmer for 15 minutes , or until the potato is almost tender. That’s when you know things are starting to come together.
- Add 1 cup each of green beans, corn, and zucchini/squash . Simmer for 10 minutes more.
- Finally, stir in 1 cup of chopped kale or spinach . Cook until wilted, about 2- 3 minutes .
Pro Tips: Elevate Your Vegetable Soup Game
My secret? Don't be afraid to experiment with herbs! Also, the best Easy vegetable soup starts with the best ingredients. Common mistake? Overcooking! Check if vegetables are fork tender, but not mushy.
This Freezer Vegetable Soup is a perfect make-ahead meal. Just let it cool completely before storing.
Simmering is more than just cooking; it’s about creating a Nutritious soup recipes masterpiece that will remind you of home and your love ones.
Recipe Notes: Hearty Harvest Vegetable Soup, Your Way!
So, you're ready to make some Best vegetable soup recipe ! Awesome! Before you dive in, let's chat about a few things to make sure your Homemade vegetable soup turns out amazing.
Honestly, these little tips are game changers.
Serving Suggestions: Let's Get Fancy (Or Not)!
Presentation matters, right? You can totally just ladle this into a bowl, grab a spoon, and go to town. But if you wanna impress, here are some ideas.
Swirl in a dollop of Greek yogurt (or a vegan alternative!) for a creamy touch. Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
Think about serving with crusty bread for dipping! Comfort food soup recipes at its finest. My personal fave? Grilled cheese croutons.
Seriously, try it!
For sides, keep it simple. A nice green salad with a light vinaigrette works wonders. Or, for something a bit heartier, a side of cheesy garlic bread. Okay, now I'm hungry again!
Storage Tips: Keep the Goodness Going
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This Freezer Vegetable Soup keeps well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freeze it. Portion it into individual containers or freezer bags. It'll last for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight (if frozen) or use the microwave. You can also reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, til it's piping hot.
Be careful not to boil it!
Variations: Your Soup, Your Rules!
Honestly, this recipe is super flexible. Don't be afraid to experiment. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño.
Want it creamy? Stir in a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end. Potato And Veggie Soup , is perfect for using up leftover produce, too!
If you are making this Nutritious soup recipes , you can adapt it for dietary needs. For a vegan option, ensure your broth is vegan friendly and add beans for extra protein.
Swap potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavour. You could also include a Winter vegetable soup mix for an extra flavour burst.
Nutrition Basics: Feel Good Food
Let's face it; Vegetable Soup is hearty and good for you! Packed with vitamins and minerals from all the veggies, it's a Heart Soup winner.
The estimated calorie count is around 200-250 per serving. Remember, this can vary depending on your ingredients! It's also a good source of fiber, which is great for your digestion.
Plus, it's low in fat, so you can indulge guilt free.
So, go ahead and get cooking! This recipe is all about having fun and creating something delicious. I hope this Easy vegetable soup recipe makes it easier! You've got this! Experiment, enjoy, and don't be afraid to make it your own.
You know I'm here to help out as well! If you think this is one of the best Veggie Soups And Stews then don't forget to share!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this Hearty Harvest Vegetable Soup?
Absolutely! Vegetable soup freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some room at the top as liquids expand when frozen. It can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or gently reheat on the stovetop. You might find the texture of some vegetables changes slightly after freezing, but the flavor will still be spot on!
What other vegetables can I add to this Hearty Harvest Vegetable Soup recipe?
The beauty of vegetable soup is its versatility! Think of it as a blank canvas for your fridge's veggie drawer. Some great additions include bell peppers, mushrooms, butternut squash, turnips, or even broccoli. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, adding tougher vegetables earlier and more delicate ones later.
It's like a "Ready, Steady, Cook" challenge, but with better results!
How do I make sure my "Vegetable Soup is hearty and" not watery?
Nobody wants a watery soup! There are a few tricks to thickening your soup. First, make sure you're not using too much broth; 8 cups is usually perfect for the amount of vegetables in this recipe.
If it's still too thin, try adding a slurry of cornstarch or flour (1 tablespoon mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) towards the end of cooking. Alternatively, you can blend a cup or two of the soup and return it to the pot for a creamier, thicker texture just like the pros do on MasterChef!
Is this Vegetable Soup recipe healthy?
You bet! This Hearty Harvest Vegetable Soup is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from all those lovely vegetables. It's naturally low in fat and can easily be made vegan. Just be mindful of the sodium content in your vegetable broth, and consider using a low-sodium option.
A bowl of this soup is like a health kick without even trying a proper "five-a-day" champion!
Can I make this Vegetable Soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Absolutely! For a slow cooker, sauté the aromatics on the stovetop as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. For the Instant Pot, use the sauté function to cook the aromatics, then add the remaining ingredients.
Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes. Both are great options for a hands off cooking experience, perfect if you're juggling work and "Bake Off" reruns!
What can I serve with this Hearty Harvest Vegetable Soup?
This soup is fantastic on its own, but it's even better with some tasty accompaniments. A slice of crusty bread is a must for soaking up all that flavorful broth. You could also serve it with a grilled cheese sandwich or a simple side salad.
For a heartier meal, top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. It's a crowd pleaser that's as comforting as a Sunday roast!
Hearty Harvest Vegetable Soup A Bowl Of Comfort
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 200-250 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 5-7g |
| Fiber | 5-7g |
