Vegetable cream soup

Vegetable Cream Soup: a versatile and flavorful recipe

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

Who doesn't love a warm and comforting soup? Vegetable cream soup is a perfect dish for any season, bringing a touch of warmth and comfort on chilly days and a boost of vitamins in the warm season. It's a simple and quick recipe that can be adapted to your preferences, making it ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions. Additionally, it's a healthy choice, packed with nutrients, being an excellent source of fresh vegetables.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large carrot
- 1 kohlrabi
- 1 zucchini
- 150 g frozen beans (or fresh, if available)
- 1 teaspoon of "Maggi Secret of Taste" (or another vegetable seasoning)
- salt and pepper to taste
- 200 ml cream (optional, for a creamy texture)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 hot pepper (optional, for a touch of spice)
- 1 liter of water

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and chopping the vegetables. Finely chop the onion, and cut the carrot, kohlrabi, and zucchini into small cubes. This step is essential as the uniform size of the vegetables will ensure even cooking and a smooth texture of the soup.

2. Sauté the onion: In a large pot, add a tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. This process will add depth and flavor to your soup.

3. Add the vegetables: Once the onion is sautéed, add the carrot, kohlrabi, and zucchini. Mix well and let them sauté together for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.

4. Boil the vegetables: Add water to the pot to cover the vegetables. Season with "Maggi Secret of Taste", salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer on low for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

5. Add the beans: When the vegetables are almost cooked, add the frozen beans. They will add color and a crunchy texture, perfect for balancing the creaminess of the soup. Let it boil for another 5-10 minutes.

6. Blend the soup: Once all the vegetables are well cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool a bit. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to turn everything into a fine puree. If you prefer a more rustic soup texture, you can leave some larger pieces.

7. Finalizing: Once the soup is blended, return it to low heat and add the cream, stirring well to achieve a creamy consistency. You can adjust the taste with salt and pepper if necessary.

8. Serving: Pour the vegetable cream soup into bowls, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top, and if you like, add a few cubes of hot pepper for an extra kick. Serve the soup warm with toasted bread on the side – a delicious combination!

Useful tips:
- Variations: You can experiment with different vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or potatoes. Each variation will bring a unique taste and texture to your soup.
- Complementary recipes: This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a savory cheese tart. You can accompany the meal with a glass of dry white wine or a comforting herbal tea.
- Nutritional values: A serving of vegetable cream soup contains about 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of cream used. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, making it a healthy choice.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen vegetables? Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are an excellent option, especially out of season. They are often frozen fresh, preserving their nutrients.
2. How can I make the soup spicier? If you like it spicy, add more hot pepper or even a dash of Tabasco sauce.
3. Can I store it? Yes, the soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it to consume later.

Vegetable cream soup is more than just a simple recipe. It's an opportunity to experiment with various vegetables, create moments of connection around the table, and enjoy a healthy and tasty meal. So, don't hesitate to put your personal touch on this recipe and adapt it to your preferences!