Mushroom soup (2)

Mushroom and Vegetable Soup – a delicious, healthy, and colorful recipe, perfect for the whole family! This soup, with a rich taste and delightful aroma, is an excellent choice for both fasting days and any special occasion. Whether you are an experienced cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will provide you with a remarkable result that you will surely enjoy.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g fresh mushrooms (choose champignon or pleurotus for a more intense flavor)
- 3 green onions (for an extra touch of freshness)
- 3 tablespoons of rice (to thicken the soup and give it consistency)
- 1 can of diced tomatoes in juice (about 400 g)
- Thin noodles (optional, but recommended for a delicious texture)
- Various vegetables: bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, eggplant, cauliflower (about 400 g, you can use frozen vegetables for convenience)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable seasoning (or preferred spices)
- Vegetable borscht (about 200 ml, for a pleasant acidity)
- Fresh parsley and lovage (for garnish and flavor)

Preparing the soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning and chopping all the vegetables. Cut the vegetables into small cubes, and you can divide the mushrooms into two: one half chopped finely and the other half sliced. This combination will give the soup texture.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables (without the sliced mushrooms) and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until they become slightly translucent and release their aromas.

3. Adding mushrooms and water: Add the finely chopped mushrooms and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes. Then, pour in water (about 1.5 liters) and add the sliced mushrooms, rice, salt, pepper, and vegetable seasoning. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer over medium heat for 30 minutes.

4. Including the tomatoes and borscht: After 30 minutes, add the canned tomatoes and let it simmer until the vegetables are well cooked and soft. Then, pour in the vegetable borscht and taste the soup. If needed, you can adjust the salt and pepper.

5. Finishing the soup: 3 minutes before turning off the heat, add the thin noodles (if you choose to use them) and let them cook according to the package instructions.

6. Serving: Once the noodles are ready, turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley and lovage on top. Cover the soup for a few minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Serving suggestions:

Serve the mushroom soup hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top for a creamier and tastier flavor. You can also add toasted bread croutons for a crunchy texture. This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of fresh bread or a seasonal salad.

Tips and tricks:

- For a more intense flavor: You can add a bit of crushed garlic during the sautéing of the vegetables.
- Variations: Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, to achieve a soup with varied flavors.
- Spicier soup: If you like spicy food, add a finely chopped chili pepper during the sautéing of the vegetables.

Nutritional benefits:

This soup is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables and nutritious mushrooms. Mushrooms contain antioxidants and are rich in fiber, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins. Additionally, the soup is low in calories, making it a perfect choice for a light and healthy meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables are a convenient option and can be successfully used in this recipe.

2. How can I adjust the consistency of the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more rice or even a vegetable puree.

3. Can the soup be frozen?
Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended not to add the noodles before freezing, as they may become mushy upon thawing.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to start cooking! Your mushroom and vegetable soup will surely become a family favorite, and its delicious aroma will fill your home with warmth and comfort. Enjoy your meal!