Vegetable cream soup

Vegetable cream soup – a warm hug in a bowl

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a warm vegetable cream soup, rich in flavors and with a creamy texture? This recipe is not only simple but also healthy, offering a variety of nutrients thanks to the fresh vegetables. Vegetable cream soup is a versatile dish, perfect for any season, and can be customized according to your preferences. Let’s get started!

Ingredients needed

- 3 medium carrots
- 1 leek
- 4-5 broccoli florets
- 5-6 mushrooms (preferably champignon)
- 1 small zucchini
- 2 celery stalks with leaves
- 2 medium potatoes
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 peeled tomato (or 200g canned tomatoes)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
- Toasted bread croutons (optional)
- Grated cheese (optional)

A brief history

Vegetable cream soup is a traditional dish in many cuisines around the world. It is an excellent way to make use of seasonal vegetables and create a nourishing meal from simple ingredients. This recipe has evolved over the years, becoming increasingly popular due to its versatility and ease of preparation. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course, vegetable cream soup is an excellent choice for any meal.

Preparing the vegetable cream soup

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by cleaning and washing the vegetables. It is important to use fresh vegetables to achieve the best flavor. Cut the carrots, zucchini, potatoes, mushrooms, and celery into suitable pieces so they cook evenly. Slice the leek lengthwise and then into rings, and cut the broccoli into small florets.

2. Sautéing the vegetables
In a large pot, add the two tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the leek, carrots, and celery. Cover with a lid and let them sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help develop the base flavors.

3. Adding the vegetables
Once the vegetables start to turn slightly golden, add the mushrooms, zucchini, broccoli, and diced potatoes. Mix well and let the vegetables sauté for another 5 minutes. The aroma will become increasingly tempting!

4. Boiling the vegetables
Now it’s time to add water. Pour enough water to cover all the vegetables, then add the peeled tomato (or canned tomatoes). Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

5. Blending the soup
Once the vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until it becomes a smooth cream. If you prefer a finer texture, you can pass the soup through a sieve.

6. Adjusting the seasoning
Add salt to taste and, if desired, a little freshly ground pepper. If you prefer a creamier soup, now is the time to incorporate some cream (about 100 ml) or even plain yogurt.

7. Garnishing
Add fresh chopped parsley on top for an extra burst of flavor and color. The soup is served hot, alongside toasted bread croutons that provide a wonderful crunchy texture.

Practical tips

- Ingredients: Use seasonal vegetables to get the best flavors. Experiment with vegetables like pumpkin, carrot, or sweet potato to change the flavor profile.
- Croutons: You can make croutons at home from stale bread by cutting it into cubes and toasting it in the oven with a little olive oil and spices.
- Variations: For a more exotic taste, add spices like curry or turmeric. You can also add a bit of ginger for a touch of freshness.

Nutritional benefits

This vegetable cream soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, with a low calorie content. Each serving contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the added ingredients, and the vegetables used provide a variety of essential nutrients such as vitamins A, C, fiber, and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables are an excellent option and can be added directly to the soup without thawing.

- How can I make the soup heartier?
Add 1-2 tablespoons of rice or pasta during boiling; they will absorb the soup and provide a richer texture.

- Can the soup be frozen?
Yes, this soup freezes very well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers for freezing.

Serving

Vegetable cream soup is delicious served with toasted bread croutons and a drizzle of cream or yogurt. You can also pair it with a fresh salad or a crunchy sandwich for a complete lunch. In the colder season, a cup of mulled wine or a fragrant tea can make perfect accompaniments.

Try this simple vegetable cream soup recipe and let yourself be carried away by its comforting flavors! It’s a healthy and tasty choice, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your meal!