When you’re craving a rich and nutritious meal, this Vegetable Soup is the perfect choice. It’s packed with fresh vegetables, creamy goodness, and flavors that will make you want to eat it again and again. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
To make this delicious Vegetable Soup, you will need:
- Butter: 1 tablespoon
- Oil: 1 teaspoon
- Onion: 1/2, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Red Bell Pepper: 1/2, diced
- Carrot: 1, diced
- Potatoes: 1/2 pound, peeled and diced
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 teaspoon
- Water: 3 cups (750 ml)
- Chicken Bouillon Powder: 2 tablespoons
- Broccoli: 1/2 head, cut into florets
- Heavy Cream: 2 cups (500 ml)
- Parsley or Cilantro: To taste, chopped
- Buttered Toast: For serving
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your rich and nutritious Vegetable Soup:
Prepare the Vegetables
- Chop and Dice: Chop the onion, mince the garlic, dice the red bell pepper, and peel and dice the carrot and potatoes.
Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat Butter and Oil: In a large pot, heat the butter and oil over medium heat.
- Sauté Onion: Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the Vegetables
- Cook Vegetables: Add the diced red bell pepper, carrot, and potatoes to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Thicken the Soup
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
Add Liquid and Seasonings
- Add Water and Bouillon: Pour in the water and add the chicken bouillon powder. Stir well to combine.
Simmer the Soup
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Add Broccoli and Cream
- Add Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and let the soup heat through without boiling.
Finish and Serve
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add chopped parsley or cilantro for extra flavor.
- Serve: Serve the soup hot with buttered toast on the side.
Tips for Success
- Even Cooking: Chop the vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Avoid Boiling Cream: Stir in the cream gently and avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
- Fresh Herbs: Use fresh parsley or cilantro for the best flavor and presentation.
Health Benefits
This Vegetable Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- Rich in Vitamins: Vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and broccoli are rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
- High in Fiber: The vegetables provide dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes satiety.
- Calcium and Protein: Heavy cream adds a source of calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle repair.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine, use vegetable bouillon instead of chicken bouillon, and replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with this soup?
Serve this soup with buttered toast, garlic bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This rich and nutritious Vegetable Soup is a perfect meal for any occasion. It’s easy to make, packed with fresh vegetables, and full of creamy goodness. Enjoy this delicious soup with your family and friends, and savor the flavors of a hearty, home-cooked meal!
Read Also: Hearty Vegetable Soup Recipe: Your Ultimate Weight Loss Companion!