Light vegetable soup

Light vegetable soup is an excellent choice for a comforting, healthy, and flavorful meal. This simple recipe is perfect for days when you crave something warm and nourishing but don't want to spend too much time in the kitchen. Soup is a traditional dish, cherished over time for its versatility and flavor, and the combination of fresh vegetables turns it into an explosion of vitamins and nutrients.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 liter of chicken broth (or 2 tablespoons of chicken fat)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for added color)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 can of yellow tubular beans or 200 g of frozen beans
- 1 stalk of celery or a slice of celeriac
- 100 g of soup noodles or other small pasta
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of Maggi Secret Flavor
- Juice from half a lemon
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 large tablespoons of sour cream
- 2 large tablespoons of yogurt

The history of vegetable soup is rich, with deep roots in the traditional dishes of various cultures. It has always been a dish that brings together available resources, transforming them into a nourishing meal, ideal for the whole family. Vegetable soup is not just a way to consume vegetables, but also an opportunity to experiment with different ingredients and create something truly personal.

Preparation:
1. If you have chicken broth on hand, use it to give the soup a special flavor. If not, don't worry! You can quickly create a flavorful base using chicken fat. Heat the fat in a large pot over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables: peel the carrots and cut them into small cubes, slice the bell pepper into strips, and chop the onion. If you're using canned yellow beans, drain them well. If you choose frozen beans, let them thaw.

3. Add the olive oil to the pot with the chicken fat and sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the carrots and bell pepper, continuing to sauté the mixture for another 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.

4. Add the yellow beans and celery, then pour in the chicken broth (or water if you opted for fat). Let everything simmer over low heat for 30 minutes. This time is essential for allowing the flavors to combine and intensify.

5. After the cooking time has passed, add the soup noodles or small pasta. Boil everything for 10-15 minutes until the pasta is cooked. Don't forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. In a separate bowl, mix the egg yolks with the sour cream and yogurt. This will add a special creaminess to your soup. Gradually add a little of the hot soup to the yolk mixture, stirring constantly to temper the eggs. This technique will prevent them from curdling.

7. Pour the yolk mixture into the soup, stirring well. Add salt, Maggi Secret Flavor, and lemon juice, adjusting the taste to your preferences. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes.

8. Turn off the heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to settle and become more intense.

9. Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and dill. These herbs not only add a touch of freshness but also enhance the appearance of your dish.

Practical tip: to enrich the flavor of the soup, you can also add other favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, squash, or potatoes. You can experiment with different types of greens, such as basil or cilantro, to give a personalized touch to the dish. Additionally, you can turn this vegetable soup into a complete meal by adding cooked meat or tofu for an extra protein boost.

Ideal pairings: vegetable soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. For a special culinary experience, enjoy this soup with a glass of dry white wine or a fragrant herbal tea.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I replace chicken broth with another base?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or plain water, but the flavors will be less intense.

2. Can the soup be prepared in advance?
Absolutely! The soup can be cooked a day ahead, and the flavors will intensify overnight. Make sure to store it in the refrigerator.

3. What are the nutritional benefits of vegetable soup?
This soup is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants due to the fresh vegetables. It is also low in calories, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet.

Approximate calories per serving: 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the portion of sour cream.

Light vegetable soup is not just a healthy dish, but also a wonderful way to bring the family together at the table. Enjoy every spoonful and cherish the moments spent together! Bon appétit!