Savory Vegetable Soup

Savory Vegetable Soup Recipe - Delicious and Healthy

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 3 hours | Servings: 8

Introduction

Savory Vegetable Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cold winter day or when you are feeling under the weather. Packed full of vegetables and bursting with flavor, this soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

History

Vegetable soup has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. It is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients depending on what is in season or what you have on hand. This particular recipe for Savory Vegetable Soup is a classic version that has been passed down through generations.

Ingredients

1 large can of tomatoes (whole or chopped)
1 can of tomato paste
1 x 6 oz (170 g) can of v-8 (preferably spicy)
3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
4 celery stalks, chopped into large chunks
1 large onion, chopped into large chunks
1 cup or more large, fresh cleaned mushrooms (left whole)
5 carrots, cut into large chunks
1 quarter head of fresh, green cabbage, cut into big chunks
1 can of green beans
1 can of lima beans
1 can of corn
1 bay leaf
2 cubes of beef or vegetable bouillon
enough water to cover veggies by about 2 inches
seasoning to taste

How to prepare

Add all ingredients to a large kettle, squeezing or cubing whole tomatoes, so that their juices become part of the mixture.
Cover and let simmer for several hours, adding water as necessary, until the vegetables are fully cooked and the flavors have had the chance to mix.
(This soup is really better the second day).
I have not included can sizes, since how much (or what you add) really depends on your personal taste (hominy, for instance, is something I sometimes add, and is really good!)

Variations

Add in some cooked chicken or beef for a meatier version of the soup.
Swap out the vegetables for your favorites or whatever you have on hand.
Stir in some cooked pasta or rice for a heartier soup.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to chop your vegetables into large chunks so that they hold their shape and texture during cooking.

- Letting the soup simmer for several hours allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich, savory taste.

- Season the soup to taste with your favorite herbs and spices for a personalized touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Savory Vegetable Soup with a side of crusty bread or a green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the soup for several hours allows the flavors to develop and intensify, resulting in a rich and savory dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap out any of the vegetables in this recipe for your favorites or whatever you have on hand. You can also use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a fresher taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Savory 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 each bowl of Savory Vegetable Soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Savory Vegetable Soup with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Savory Vegetable Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Savory Vegetable Soup contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Savory Vegetable Soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Savory Vegetable Soup contains approximately 2 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Savory Vegetable Soup contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Savory Vegetable Soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

Alergens

Savory Vegetable Soup is free of common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten.

Summary

Savory Vegetable Soup is a nutritious and low-calorie dish that is packed full of vitamins and minerals. It is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables in a delicious and satisfying way.

Summary

Savory Vegetable Soup is a classic and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or when you need a nutritious meal. Packed full of vegetables and bursting with flavor, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a cold winter day, and I had just come home from a long day at work. As I entered the kitchen, I was greeted by the warm aroma of savory vegetables simmering on the stove. My dear friend Margaret was there, stirring a pot of what she called her famous Savory Vegetable Soup.

Margaret was a wonderful cook, and I had always admired her ability to create delicious meals out of simple ingredients. She had learned this recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. As I watched Margaret work her magic in the kitchen, I knew I had to learn how to make this soup for myself.

I sat down at the kitchen table, eager to learn the secrets of Margaret's recipe. She began by explaining that the key to a great vegetable soup was using fresh, seasonal ingredients. She showed me how to chop onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes, and explained that the combination of these vegetables would create a rich and flavorful base for the soup.

Next, Margaret added a handful of dried herbs and spices to the pot, including thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. She explained that these herbs would infuse the soup with a depth of flavor that could not be achieved with fresh ingredients alone. As the pot simmered on the stove, the kitchen filled with the warm, comforting scent of the herbs mingling with the vegetables.

Margaret then added a can of diced tomatoes and a generous amount of vegetable broth to the pot. She explained that the acidity of the tomatoes would balance out the sweetness of the vegetables, while the broth would add richness and depth to the soup. Finally, she stirred in a handful of barley, which would thicken the soup and make it hearty and satisfying.

As the soup simmered on the stove, Margaret and I sat at the kitchen table, sipping tea and chatting about our lives. I listened intently as she shared stories of her grandmother and the many meals they had cooked together. I could see the love and passion she had for cooking reflected in her eyes, and I felt honored to be learning from her.

After an hour of simmering, the soup was ready. Margaret ladled it into bowls and garnished each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. As I took my first spoonful, I was transported to a place of comfort and warmth. The flavors of the vegetables and herbs danced on my tongue, creating a symphony of taste that was both satisfying and nourishing.

As I finished my bowl of soup, Margaret smiled at me and said, "Now you know the secret to making a truly delicious vegetable soup. Remember to always use fresh, seasonal ingredients, and to cook with love and care. That is the key to creating a meal that will warm the hearts and souls of those you share it with."

I thanked Margaret for sharing her recipe with me, and promised to pass it on to future generations. As I left her kitchen that evening, I carried with me not only a new recipe, but also a deeper understanding of the power of food to bring people together and nourish the body and soul.

And so, every time I make Margaret's Savory Vegetable Soup, I am reminded of the love and connection that food can create. I am grateful for the lessons I have learned from my dear friend, and for the memories we have shared in the kitchen. Cooking this soup has become a ritual of love and remembrance, and I will always treasure the moments spent learning and creating alongside Margaret.