COUNTRY VEGETABLE SOUP

Country vegetable soup is a traditional dish that combines the flavor of fresh vegetables with the rich aromas of herbs. This recipe not only provides a nourishing meal but also a comforting taste, perfect for any season. If you are passionate about cooking or simply want to surprise your family with a healthy dish, this soup is the ideal choice. Let's see how to prepare it!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 1 carrot
- 1/2 celery
- 1/2 root celery
- 1/2 small chopped cabbage
- 100g green beans
- 100g peas
- 2 small zucchinis
- 2 medium potatoes
- 100g chard
- 1-2 onions
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 3-4 peeled and chopped tomatoes
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Fresh lovage, to taste
- Fresh tarragon, to taste
- Borscht, to taste
- Oil, for sautéing

Nutritional information (per serving):
Calories: approximately 150 kcal
Protein: 5g
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 6g

Step-by-step preparation of the country soup:

1. Preparing the vegetables:
Start by cleaning and washing all the vegetables. Chop the onion finely, and cut the carrot, celery, and potatoes into small cubes. The zucchinis can be cut into medium-sized cubes, and the chard should be cut into large pieces.

2. Sautéing the onion:
In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and let it heat up. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it on low heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent. You can add a little vegetable broth or water to prevent sticking.

3. Adding the vegetables:
Once the onion is sautéed, add the carrot, celery, and green beans cut into 1-2 cm pieces. Mix well and let them sauté together for a few minutes. Then, add the peas and chopped cabbage. Continue to stir.

4. Boiling the ingredients:
When the vegetables are slightly softened, add the potatoes and zucchinis. Cover the pot with a lid and let it boil over medium heat for 10-15 minutes. It is important for the vegetables to cook evenly, so don't forget to stir occasionally.

5. Adding the tomatoes and chard:
After the vegetables have started to boil, add the chopped tomatoes and chard. The latter is full of vitamins, so make sure to add it fresh, without blanching, to preserve all the nutrients.

6. Adjusting the taste:
When all the vegetables are almost cooked, adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Add the chopped garlic and boiling borscht, which will give a tangy flavor typical of traditional soups. If necessary, you can add more water or vegetable broth to reach the desired consistency.

7. Finalizing the soup:
Let the soup simmer on low heat for another 5-10 minutes, then add the finely chopped lovage and tarragon. These herbs will enhance the soup's aroma, giving it a fresh and lively taste.

8. Serving:
Once the soup is ready, take it off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. You can serve the soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or with flavored croutons. A spoonful of sour cream on top can work wonders, adding a creamy touch.

Practical tips:

- Seasonal vegetables: Try to use fresh, seasonal vegetables to achieve the best flavors. The soup can be easily adapted based on available ingredients.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for a different taste. Additionally, you can experiment with herbs like basil or dill to customize the recipe.
- Soup in a jar: If you have leftover soup, you can preserve it in a jar to enjoy later, perfect for busy days.

Frequently asked questions:

- How long can I keep the soup in the fridge? The soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.
- Can I freeze the soup? Yes, the soup can be frozen. It is recommended to portion it into small containers for easier reheating.

Country vegetable soup is not just a simple recipe but also an excellent way to introduce vegetables into your daily diet. It combines health with taste, providing you with a delicious meal that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Try this recipe today and let yourself be carried away by its aromas!