Potato soup

Vegetable soup with potatoes – a simple, healthy, and comforting recipe

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

I propose a recipe for vegetable soup with potatoes, which is not only easy to prepare but also full of flavors and nutrients. This soup is ideal for chilly days or for moments when you need a comforting dish. But, above all, it is an excellent choice for a healthy diet, thanks to the natural ingredients it contains.

A brief story about soup: Soup has deep roots in culinary culture around the world. Whether we talk about hearty soups or clear broths, they have always been appreciated for their ability to bring family together around the table and provide warmth and comfort. Vegetable soup with potatoes is a versatile recipe that can be adapted based on available vegetables and personal preferences.

Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes
- 1/2 carrot
- a few strips of green pepper
- 1 medium onion
- 1 slice of celery
- 1 slice of parsnip
- 1/2 bunch of fresh parsley
- salt, pepper, thyme, sweet paprika to taste
- 30 ml oil (olive or sunflower)
- 1/2 slice of noodles (optional, to make the soup heartier)

Steps for preparing the soup:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling and washing all the vegetables. Cut the potatoes into medium cubes, the carrot, pepper, and celery into small pieces, and slice the onion thinly. The parsnip can be cut into rounds, and the parsley should be finely chopped.

2. Heating the oil: In a large pot, add 30 ml of oil and place it over medium heat. The oil will help develop the flavors of the vegetables.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: When the oil is hot, add the onion and carrot. Sauté for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Then add the parsnip, pepper, and celery. Let the vegetables soften for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process will bring out the delicious flavors of the vegetables.

4. Adding the potatoes: Once the vegetables have softened, add the chopped potatoes. Let them sauté with the other vegetables for 3 minutes. This will give the soup a richer taste.

5. Boiling the soup: Pour enough water into the pot to cover all the vegetables (about 1.5-2 liters). Add salt to taste and bring the soup to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the potatoes become tender.

6. Seasoning: About 5 minutes before turning off the heat, add pepper, thyme, and sweet paprika to taste. If you want to add noodles, now is the time to put them in the soup. The noodles will cook quickly and add a pleasant texture.

7. Finalizing: Once the vegetables are cooked and the noodles are ready, take the pot off the heat. Add the freshly chopped parsley and stir. This will add a touch of freshness and color to the soup.

8. Serving: Let the soup cool slightly, then serve it warm, with a slice of freshly baked whole-grain bread on the side. This vegetable soup is perfect as a light main dish or as a comforting snack.

Useful tips:
- Vegetable variations: You can also add other seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini, green beans, or peas, to diversify the recipe.
- Soup consistency: If you prefer a creamier soup, you can blend part of the vegetables with an immersion blender, leaving some pieces whole for texture.
- Storing the soup: The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and is delicious the next day when the flavors have had time to meld.

Nutritional benefits:
Vegetable soup with potatoes is an excellent source of vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (potassium, magnesium). It is also low in calories, with about 150 calories per serving, making it an ideal choice for a light and healthy meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables are a good option; they retain most of the nutrients and are very convenient.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Absolutely! This soup is completely vegan and contains no animal-derived ingredients.
- How can I enhance the flavor of the soup? You can add chopped garlic or ginger for a more intense flavor. Also, a splash of lemon juice before serving can add a note of freshness.

Ideal combinations:
Vegetable soup with potatoes pairs excellently with a fresh green salad or a savory tart with cheese and vegetables. Additionally, a cup of green or mint tea can perfectly complement the meal.

This recipe is not just a dish, but an invitation to enjoy moments spent in the kitchen, to experiment with flavors, and to create memories with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!