Vegetable soup

Lenten Broccoli Soup – A Healthy and Tasty Delicacy

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

Welcome to the flavorful world of vegetable soups! Today, I will guide you through a simple yet incredibly satisfying recipe – a Lenten soup with broccoli, packed with vitamins and delicious flavors. Vegetable soup is a versatile dish, appreciated in many cultures for its ability to bring together fresh ingredients in a comforting way. I encourage you to consider it not just a Lenten dish, but also a perfect option for a healthy meal at any time!

Ingredients needed:

- 1 medium onion
- 2 red bell peppers
- 2 carrots
- 3 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil for a refined taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 broccoli (approximately 400 g)
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- Fresh celery and parsley leaves (for added flavor)
- 3 liters of still water

A Bit of History:
Vegetable soup is a traditional dish often associated with moments of conviviality and joy in family gatherings. It symbolizes health, with deep roots in cultures that emphasize plant-based nutrition. Over time, soups have evolved, but their essence remains to bring together the freshest ingredients and local flavors. This Lenten broccoli soup is a delicious variation that can be adapted based on available vegetables.

Steps for a Perfect Soup:

1. Preparing the Vegetables: Start by peeling and washing the vegetables. The onion, peppers, and carrots need to be prepped before cooking. Chop the onion finely, dice the peppers, and slice the carrots into rounds. These cuts not only help with even cooking but also create an appealing presentation.

2. Sautéing the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the 3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the peppers and carrots. Continue to sauté the vegetables for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently. This step will release the vegetables' flavors, providing a delicious base for the soup.

3. Boiling the Soup: Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the 3 liters of still water. Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes. This time allows the vegetables to reveal their flavors and blend perfectly.

4. Adding the Broccoli: While the soup simmers, break the broccoli into florets and rinse them under cold water. After 20 minutes, add the broccoli to the pot and let the soup simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes. The broccoli will become tender but still retain some crunch.

5. Finishing Touch: Once the broccoli is cooked, turn off the heat and add the 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Allow the soup to simmer for a few more minutes, about 2-3 minutes, to intensify the flavors. Finally, add the chopped greens – celery and parsley – for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving and Suggestions:
The Lenten broccoli soup is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. You can drizzle a bit of olive oil on top for an even richer flavor. This soup pairs wonderfully with a green salad or a serving of boiled rice, completing the meal with a source of healthy carbohydrates.

Tips and Variations:
If you wish to experiment, you can add other vegetables such as zucchini or green beans. Additionally, for a more intense flavor, you can incorporate spices like cumin or smoked paprika. Remember that every ingredient added to the soup is an opportunity to customize the recipe to your preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can this soup be frozen?
Yes, the soup can be frozen, but I recommend not adding the broccoli before freezing to preserve its texture. Add the broccoli only when you defrost and reheat it.

2. Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Vegetable soup is extremely versatile. You can add seasonal vegetables or those you have on hand.

3. Is this soup high in calories?
This vegetable soup is low in calories, making it an excellent option for those looking to eat healthily. Approximately, a serving has about 150 calories, depending on the oil used and the exact quantities.

Nutritional Benefits:
The Lenten broccoli soup is not only delicious but also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Broccoli is rich in vitamins C, K, and fiber, contributing to a healthy immune system. Additionally, the vegetables used in the soup help maintain healthy digestion and can reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

So, don’t hesitate! Gather the ingredients and prepare this Lenten broccoli soup that will delight your taste buds and bring a touch of health to your plate. Enjoy your meal!