Pistou Vegetable Soup

Pistou Vegetable Soup Recipe - Egyptian Cuisine

Region / culture: Egypt | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Pistou Vegetable Soup is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This soup is packed full of fresh vegetables and topped with a flavorful red pesto and Parmesan cheese. It is a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to warm you up on a cold day.

History

Pistou Vegetable Soup originates from the Provence region of France. It is a variation of the traditional French vegetable soup, known as soupe au pistou. The word "pistou" refers to the basil-based sauce that is added to the soup just before serving. This soup is a popular dish in French cuisine and is often enjoyed as a light and healthy meal.

Ingredients

1 courgette, diced
50 g (2 oz) potato, diced
50 g (2 oz) onion, chopped
1 carrot, diced
230 g (8 oz) can chopped tomatoes
salt and pepper to taste
1.2 liters (2 pt) boiling water (approximately)
50 g (2 oz) french beans, cut into 1 cm (0.5 inch) lengths
50 g (2 oz) frozen petit pois
50 g (2 oz) small pasta shapes
4 – 6 tbsp red pesto
freshly grated parmesan cheese to serve

How to prepare

Place the courgette, potato, onion, carrot, and tomatoes in a large pan.
Add seasoning and enough boiling water to generously cover the ingredients.
Simmer for 20 minutes.
Add the French beans, petit pois, and pasta.
Cook for 10 minutes until the pasta is tender.
Check the seasoning.
Transfer the soup to individual soup plates, adding a tablespoon of pesto to each plate.
Serve with grated Parmesan cheese.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein.
Substitute the red pesto with traditional basil pesto for a different flavor profile.
Use different vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to dice the vegetables into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Adding the red pesto just before serving adds a burst of flavor to the soup.

- Feel free to customize the vegetables in this soup based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pistou Vegetable Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a light and refreshing lemonade.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the soup over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Stir the soup occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.

- Substitute the pasta with rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Pistou Vegetable Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation. Serve in individual soup plates for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Pistou Vegetable Soup with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. It also pairs well with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Pistou Vegetable Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

200

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 30g

- Dietary Fiber: 5g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 5g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 5g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 50% DV

- Vitamin C: 30% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (Parmesan cheese)

Summary

Pistou Vegetable Soup is a nutritious dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a good source of fiber, protein, and essential nutrients. However, it does contain dairy, so it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Pistou Vegetable Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a comforting meal. Packed full of fresh vegetables and topped with a flavorful red pesto, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this hearty and satisfying dish on a cold day for a warm and cozy meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, many years ago, when I stumbled upon the secret to making the most delicious Pistou Vegetable Soup. I was visiting an old friend in the countryside, and she invited me to join her in the kitchen as she prepared this fragrant and hearty dish.

As we chopped and diced the fresh vegetables, my friend shared with me the story of how she had learned to make the soup from her own grandmother. She told me about the origins of the recipe, which hailed from the Provence region of France, and how each family put their own unique twist on it.

I was captivated by the rich history and tradition behind the Pistou Vegetable Soup, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. My friend graciously shared the recipe with me, and I eagerly took notes, making sure to capture every detail and ingredient.

Over the years, I have perfected my own version of the Pistou Vegetable Soup, adding my own flair and creativity to the traditional recipe. I have made it for my family and friends countless times, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

The key to this soup lies in the freshness of the ingredients. I always make sure to use the ripest tomatoes, the crispest green beans, and the most fragrant basil. The pistou, a flavorful basil and garlic paste that is stirred into the soup just before serving, adds a burst of freshness and a depth of flavor that is truly irresistible.

I have shared this recipe with many people over the years, passing it down through the generations just as it was passed down to me. Each time I make the Pistou Vegetable Soup, I am reminded of that sunny day in the countryside when I first learned the secret to making this delectable dish.

One of my fondest memories of making this soup was when my grandchildren came to visit me. They were curious and eager to learn how to cook, so I decided to teach them how to make the Pistou Vegetable Soup. We spent the day in the kitchen, chopping vegetables, simmering broth, and stirring in the fragrant pistou.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I watched with pride as my grandchildren savored each spoonful of the soup, their faces lighting up with delight. They couldn't believe that they had made something so delicious themselves, and they begged me to teach them more recipes.

I have always believed that cooking is a way to connect with others and create lasting memories. The Pistou Vegetable Soup has become a symbol of my love for my family and friends, a dish that brings us together and warms our hearts.

As I sit here, surrounded by the aroma of simmering vegetables and basil, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share this recipe with others. The Pistou Vegetable Soup will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and love that can be found in a simple bowl of soup.