Vegetable and mushroom soup

Vegetable and Mushroom Soup - A Soul Recipe

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

Vegetable and mushroom soup is a perfect choice for a healthy and comforting meal. This recipe is not only simple and quick but also full of flavors and textures, making it ideal for any time of the day. Whether you are a cooking enthusiast or just a beginner, this soup will surely become one of your favorite recipes.

A Brief History
Soups have a rich and varied history, being prepared thousands of years ago. They have evolved over time, becoming an integral part of the culinary culture of many communities. Vegetable and mushroom soup is a healthy variant, perfect for bringing a touch of freshness and vitality to your daily diet.

Ingredients:
- 1 box of mushrooms (500 g) - choose fresh mushrooms, preferably champignon, for a sweet taste and pleasant texture
- 1 medium onion - finely chopped to add flavor
- 2 carrots - peeled and sliced into rounds, for a touch of sweetness
- 2 bell peppers - you can opt for red or green peppers, depending on your preferences
- 1 tomato - fresh, diced, for a tangy taste
- 200 ml sour cream - to add creaminess
- Salt and pepper - to taste
- 3-4 cloves of garlic - for an extra flavor
- 5 tablespoons of oil - for sautéing the vegetables

Step-by-step preparation:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing and peeling all the vegetables. This is an essential step that will ensure your soup has a unique texture and taste. Chop the onion, carrots, peppers, and tomatoes according to the list.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrots and bell peppers. Continue to sauté the vegetables for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Adding the mushrooms: Cut the mushrooms into quarters and add them to the pot. Let them sauté together with the other vegetables for about 5 minutes. The mushrooms will release water, which will intensify the flavors.

4. Boiling the soup: After the mushrooms have softened, add enough water to cover all the vegetables. Let the soup boil for about 20 minutes. This boiling time will allow the vegetables to absorb each other's flavors.

5. Preparing the garlic paste: While the soup is boiling, peel and crush half of the garlic. The rest of the garlic will be used for the paste, which will add an intense note to the soup. Mix the crushed garlic with a pinch of salt and a splash of water until you get a smooth paste.

6. Seasoning the soup: After 20 minutes of boiling, add salt and pepper to taste. At this point, you can also add the sour cream, mixing well to incorporate it evenly. Let the soup boil for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.

7. Serving: Finally, serve the soup hot, alongside fresh garlic paste and, if you like, hot peppers for an extra kick. A slice of fresh bread or croutons can perfectly complete the meal.

Practical Tips:
- Choose seasonal vegetables: Using fresh, seasonal vegetables will make the soup tastier and more nutritious.
- Customize the recipe: You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or parsnip, to vary the taste and texture of the soup.
- A tangier soup: If you prefer a tangier soup, you can add a little lemon juice or vinegar at the end, to taste.

Nutritional Information:
This soup is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the vegetables used. It is low in calories, with approximately 120 calories per serving, making it ideal for a balanced diet. Additionally, it is rich in fiber, which aids digestion and keeps you feeling full.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use canned mushrooms?: Although fresh mushrooms offer a better taste, you can also use canned mushrooms, but make sure to drain them well before use.
- How can I store the soup?: The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze individual portions for later consumption.

Delicious Pairings:
This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a vegetable tart. As for drinks, a glass of dry white wine or herbal tea would perfectly complement the meal.

I hope this vegetable and mushroom soup recipe brings you joy in the kitchen and on your table! Every spoonful is an explosion of flavors and health. Enjoy your meal!